Origin
Englerophytum stelechanthum K.Krause is a species of plant that belongs to the family of Fabaceae, which is commonly found in tropical Africa. It is widely distributed in West and Central Africa, including Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, Cameroon, Congo, and Angola.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as African rosewood, kosipo, muvule, and kusia in different parts of Africa. It is also known as Dibétou in French and Panga-Panga in Portuguese.
Appearance
Englerophytum stelechanthum K.Krause is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 40 meters tall. It has a straight, cylindrical trunk with a diameter of up to 2 meters, and a dense, spreading crown. The tree bark is greyish-brown and rough, with deep vertical fissures. The leaves are alternate and pinnately compound with 5-7 leaflets, which are elliptical, glossy, and dark green. The plant produces fragrant, creamy-white flowers in clusters that bloom from November to March. The fruit is a cylindrical pod, which is about 15 cm long, and 2 cm wide and contains several seeds.
Uses
The wood of Englerophytum stelechanthum K.Krause is highly valued for its durability, strength, and attractive reddish-brown color. It is used extensively in the construction of furniture, flooring, doors and windows, and decorative veneers. The plant is also used for medicinal purposes in traditional African medicine. The bark, leaves, and roots are used to treat various ailments, including fever, stomachache, and skin diseases. Additionally, the tree is a source of food for animals such as monkeys, elephants, and antelopes.
Light Requirements
Englerophytum stelechanthum K.Krause prefer bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade. Direct sunlight can be damaging to the leaves, causing them to scorch and turn brown.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. It cannot survive temperatures below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, and cold drafts can also cause damage to the leaves and stems.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. A soil PH of 6.5-7.5 is ideal for optimal growth. Fertilizers should be applied during the growing season to supplement nutrients.
Cultivation methods
Englerophytum stelechanthum K.Krause, commonly known as the African cherry, is a tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa and can be cultivated in warm and humid regions. The plant requires a well-drained soil rich in organic matter for optimal growth.
The African cherry tree can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be sown in the soil during the onset of the rainy season, while cuttings should be taken from mature plants during the dry season. The plant grows well in full sun and can be planted in rows or as individual trees.
Watering needs
Englerophytum stelechanthum K.Krause requires regular watering to establish successfully. Newly planted trees should be watered frequently to help the plant develop a deep root system. Mature trees can survive on rainfall, but during extended periods of dry weather, they require additional watering. It can tolerate a moderate amount of flooding.
Fertilization
The African cherry tree requires balanced fertilization to support its growth and fruit development. Before planting, incorporate well-rotted manure or compost in the soil to provide organic matter and nutrients. Apply nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium fertilizers during the growing season according to the soil test results. The fertilizer should be applied around the base of the plant and watered in afterward. Too much fertilizer can cause overgrowth of the tree, resulting in excessive pruning.
Pruning
Pruning the African cherry tree is crucial to promote its growth, structure, and fruit-bearing capacity. Remove the dead, damaged, and diseased branches as soon as possible to prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Prune away any crossing branches, water shoots, and suckers that detract from the shape of the tree. Trim back the leading shoots to encourage dense branching and fruit production. Orchard trees should be pruned to form a central leader system with three to four main branches. Regular pruning ensures the tree remains healthy and productive.
Propagation of Englerophytum stelechanthum K.Krause
Englerophytum stelechanthum K.Krause, commonly known as the African cherry, is a tree species native to tropical and subtropical Africa. It produces a red edible fruit and is widely used in traditional medicine. The plant can be propagated through various methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for Englerophytum stelechanthum. The seeds are collected from ripe fruits, cleaned and soaked in water for 24 hours. Once the seeds have been soaked, they are planted in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within 2-3 weeks.
Cutting propagation
Englerophytum stelechanthum can also be propagated through cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken from the previous year’s growth should be used. Cuttings should be approximately 15-20 cm long and have at least 3-4 nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a shaded location to prevent excessive transpiration. Rooting should occur within 6-8 weeks.
Both seed and cutting propagation of Englerophytum stelechanthum K.Krause are relatively easy and can be done by novice gardeners or small-scale farmers. It is important to note that this tree species requires a warm and humid climate to thrive and will not do well in regions with cold or dry weather conditions.
Disease and Pest Management for Englerophytum Stelechanthum K. Krause
Englerophytum stelechanthum K. Krause is a tropical tree that grows up to 25 meters tall and is native to African countries, including Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. This species is vulnerable to various diseases and pests, which can decrease its yield, quality, and vigor. Therefore, it is crucial to adopt effective disease and pest management measures to safeguard Englerophytum stelechanthum from harm. Some of the common diseases and pests that affect Englerophytum stelechanthum and ways to manage them are discussed below.
Diseases
Some of the typical diseases that can affect Englerophytum stelechanthum are root rot, powdery mildew, leaf spot, and canker. Root rot is caused by waterlogging, which leads to the decay of the roots and subsequently, the death of the whole plant. To manage this disease, it is crucial to avoid overwatering, improve the drainage of the soil, and use well-draining potting mixtures. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery substance on the leaves and shoots of Englerophytum stelechanthum. This disease can be managed by ensuring good air circulation around the plant, reducing humidity levels, avoiding overhead watering, and using fungicides.
Leaf spot is a bacterial or fungal disease that causes dark spots on the leaves of Englerophytum stelechanthum, leading to defoliation and reduced photosynthesis. To prevent this disease, it is crucial to avoid waterlogging and overfertilization, remove infected leaves and destroy them, and use copper-based fungicides. Canker is a fungal disease that causes sunken lesions on the bark and trunk of Englerophytum stelechanthum, leading to decreased sap flow, wilting, and death. This disease can be managed by pruning and removing infected branches, applying fungicides, and promoting tree vigor through proper nutrition and irrigation.
Pests
Englerophytum stelechanthum is susceptible to a wide range of pests, including termites, caterpillars, beetles, and scales. Termites can cause significant damage to the roots, stems, and branches of the tree, leading to reduced growth and yield. To prevent termite infestation, it is essential to avoid planting Englerophytum stelechanthum in areas prone to termite attacks, use termite-resistant wood or metal stakes, and apply chemical or biological termite control measures.
Caterpillars can defoliate the leaves and shoots of Englerophytum stelechanthum, leading to reduced photosynthesis and growth. To manage caterpillars, it is crucial to handpick and destroy them, use insecticidal soap or oil sprays, and practice proper sanitation by removing dead leaves and debris. Beetles and scales can also attack Englerophytum stelechanthum and cause damage to the leaves, flowers, and fruit. To prevent these pests, it is essential to monitor the tree regularly, remove and destroy infested plants or parts, and use appropriate insecticides.
In conclusion, Englerophytum stelechanthum K. Krause is prone to various diseases and pests, which can affect its health and productivity. However, by following the disease and pest management practices discussed above, growers and gardeners can minimize the risks of infestation and protect their trees from harm.
