Entandrophragma ekebergioides (Harms) Sprague: An Overview
Entandrophragma ekebergioides, also known as Sapelli or Sapele, is a hardwood tree that belongs to the family of Meliaceae. It is native to tropical regions of Africa including the Congo, Ghana, and Nigeria. This tree is widely used for various commercial purposes due to its hard and durable wood.
Appearance
The Sapelli tree can grow up to 40 meters tall, with a trunk that has a diameter of 2 meters. It has a straight and cylindrical bole that can be branchless for up to 25 meters. The tree crown is dense and flat-topped, and the leaves are elongated and have a pointed tip. It produces small and white-colored flowers that are followed by large fruit capsules, each containing numerous seeds.
Common Uses
The wood of the Sapelli tree is highly valued for its beautiful reddish-brown color, which darkens with age. It is commonly used in the manufacturing of furniture, cabinetry, flooring, and paneling, as well as for boat building and construction purposes. The wood is also used in the production of musical instruments, including guitars and pianos, due to its excellent resonance and tonal qualities. The bark and roots of the tree have medicinal properties and are used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments such as fever and malaria.
Conservation Status
Entandrophragma ekebergioides is listed as a vulnerable species due to the overexploitation of its wood for commercial purposes. Its natural habitat has also been impacted by deforestation and illegal logging activities. Conservation efforts are being made to protect this species, including the establishment of protected areas and sustainable forestry practices.
Light Requirements
Entandrophragma ekebergioides (Harms) Sprague requires full to partial sunlight to thrive. It grows well in areas with direct sunlight for at least 4-6 hours daily. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth and poor foliage development.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Entandrophragma ekebergioides (Harms) Sprague growth is between 21 and 28°C. It can withstand temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 40°C. Temperatures below 10°C can cause frost damage and decline in growth, while high temperatures above 40°C may cause leaf scorching and dehydration.
Soil Requirements
Entandrophragma ekebergioides (Harms) Sprague grows well in moist, well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers acidic to slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. However, it cannot grow in waterlogged or poorly-drained soils, which can cause root rot and other microbial diseases.
Cultivation
Entandrophragma ekebergioides, commonly known as African Cedar or Benin Cedar, is a species of tropical hardwood tree native to West Africa. It thrives in warm and humid climates, and it can be cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions.
To cultivate this plant, select a location with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant the seeds or seedlings at a depth of 1 inch in the soil, and water thoroughly after planting.
Watering Needs
Entandrophragma ekebergioides prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate brief periods of drought. Water the plant deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and the soil's moisture level. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Apply a slow-release fertilizer with a balanced N-P-K ratio (e.g., 10-10-10 or 20-20-20) in the spring and fall. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and timing. Additionally, you can amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or well-aged manure to improve its fertility.
Pruning
Entandrophragma ekebergioides requires minimal pruning, but you can remove any dead or diseased branches as needed. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to make smooth cuts, and disinfect them with rubbing alcohol or bleach between cuts to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Entandrophragma ekebergioides (Harms) Sprague
Entandrophragma ekebergioides (Harms) Sprague, commonly known as African cedar, is a tropical hardwood tree native to West Africa. It is a valuable timber species, but also has ornamental and medicinal significance. Propagation of this tree can be done through various methods.
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the primary method of propagating African cedar. The seeds are collected from mature fruits, which are produced once a year. The seeds should be sown immediately after collection, as they lose viability quickly. They can also be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to break dormancy. They can then be planted in individual pots containing a mixture of soil and sand, and kept in a warm, humid environment. Germination can take up to 4 weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings can also be used to propagate African cedar. Softwood cuttings taken from the tree's new growth are best for this purpose. Cuttings should be taken in the early morning, when the plant is fully hydrated. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings dipped in rooting hormone powder. The cuttings are placed in a well-draining potting mix, and covered with a transparent plastic bag to maintain humidity. They should be kept in a warm, bright location, and misted regularly to keep them hydrated. Rooting can take up to 6 weeks.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is a propagation method used for woody plants, including African cedar. In this method, a ring of bark is removed from a branch, and a rooting hormone is applied to the exposed wood. The spot is then wrapped with moist sphagnum moss, and covered with plastic to maintain humidity. The roots will grow into the moss, and once they are established, the branch can be cut from the parent plant and potted.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that may affect Entandrophragma ekebergioides is anthracnose. This fungal disease can easily spread through the plant during periods of rainy weather or high humidity. It can cause wilting of leaves, defoliation, and stem cankers. To manage anthracnose, remove any infected plant parts immediately and dispose of them properly. Regularly prune the plant to improve air circulation, and avoid over-watering the soil. Additionally, fungicides may be applied to reduce the spread of the disease.
Another disease that may affect Entandrophragma ekebergioides is leaf spot, which is usually caused by fungi of the Cercospora genus. This disease causes small, circular brown spots on the leaves, which can enlarge and coalesce into larger necrotic areas. To manage leaf spot, remove any infected leaves and stems immediately and dispose of them properly. Avoid overhead watering as this can promote the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be applied early in the growing season to prevent the occurrence of the disease.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that may affect Entandrophragma ekebergioides is the stem borer. It lays its eggs on the surface of the bark and the larvae tunnel into the tree, causing extensive damage. To manage stem borers, prune the plant frequently to remove affected parts. Additionally, a systemic insecticide can be applied to the plant or into the soil to control the pests.
The plant may also be attacked by scales. These small, waxy insects suck the sap from the plant's foliage and bark, causing yellowing and premature leaf drop. To control scales, it is advisable to release biological agents like parasitic wasps, ladybugs, and lacewings, which feed on the scales. Alternatively, an insecticidal soap or horticultural oils can be applied to the plant to control the pests.
