Entandrophragma excelsum (Dawe & Sprague) Sprague
Entandrophragma excelsum, also known as African mahogany or khaya, is a species of tree in the family Meliaceae. It is native to tropical Africa, including Cameroon, Gabon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Ivory Coast. It was first described by Dawe and Sprague in 1928 and later classified under the genus Entandrophragma in 1949 by Sprague.
Appearance
The African mahogany tree can grow up to 60 meters tall and has a straight stem with a diameter of up to 2 meters. Its leaves are dark green, large, and grouped at the end of the branches. The tree produces flowers in large inflorescences that are followed by woody fruits that contain winged seeds.
Uses
African mahogany is highly valued for its durable and attractive wood, which is used in furniture making, cabinetwork, and flooring. Its timber is also used for boat building and veneering. The tree's bark and leaves are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as nosebleeds, fever, and diarrhea. Additionally, the tree is cultivated as an ornamental plant.
Light Requirements
Entandrophragma excelsum requires bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. It can tolerate partial shade but does not perform well in full shade. A location with east or west-facing windows is ideal for this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F) during the day and no lower than 15°C (59°F) at night. It is sensitive to cold temperatures and should be protected from drafts.
Soil Requirements
The plant does well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite can provide the necessary soil conditions. The pH of the soil should be maintained at a slightly acidic level of around 6.0 to 6.5.
Cultivation Methods
Entandrophragma excelsum is typically grown from seeds or cuttings. Seeds can be collected from fruits when they are ripe and then sown immediately, or they can be stored and sown later. Cuttings can be taken from young shoots and transplanted into well-drained soil. The plant prefers full sunlight and thrives in moist soil.
Watering Needs
This plant requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. It is important to ensure that the soil does not dry out completely, as this can cause stress to the plant. It is recommended to water the plant once or twice a week, depending on the climate and the soil type.
Fertilization
Entandrophragma excelsum responds well to fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. The plant prefers fertilization during the growing season, which generally coincides with the rainy season. It is recommended to fertilize the plant every three months using a fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Pruning
To ensure healthy growth and shape, Entandrophragma excelsum requires regular pruning. This plant should be pruned during the dry season to remove any dead or diseased branches. It is also recommended to prune young shoots to encourage branching and a fuller, more compact growth habit. Pruning can be done using clean, sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Entandrophragma excelsum
Entandrophragma excelsum, commonly known as the African mahogany, is a tropical tree species that is widely grown for its valuable timber. Propagation of this plant can be done through various means:
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Entandrophragma excelsum is through seeds. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits and then cleaned. Then, they should be soaked in water for a few days to soften the hard seed coat. After soaking, the seeds should be planted in a seedbed filled with light potting soil. The seeds should not be buried too deeply, just covered with a thin layer of soil. The seedbed should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist.
Cuttings Propagation
Another propagation method for Entandrophragma excelsum is through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from mature trees during the dormant season, and they should be about 20 cm long. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting. Then, they should be planted in a pot filled with a mixture of sand and soil. The pot should be kept in a warm and humid environment, and it should be watered regularly.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Entandrophragma excelsum. This method involves making a cut on a branch, then applying rooting hormone to the wound and wrapping the area with moist sphagnum moss or peat moss. After a few weeks, roots should start to form from the wound. The rooted branch should then be cut off from the parent tree and planted in a pot filled with a mixture of sand and soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Entandrophragma excelsum (Dawe & Sprague) Sprague
Entandrophragma excelsum (Dawe & Sprague) Sprague, also known as Sapele, is a tropical hardwood tree commonly found in West and Central Africa. The tree is prized for its high-quality timber, which is used for furniture, flooring, and musical instruments. However, the plant is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and health.
Common Diseases
Sapele is prone to various fungal and bacterial diseases that can weaken or kill the tree if left untreated. One of the most common diseases affecting Sapele is Anthracnose, a fungal disease that causes black spots and lesions on the leaves, stems, and flowers. Another common disease is Powdery Mildew, a fungal disease that leaves a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems, impacting the photosynthesis process. Bacterial Leaf Spot, caused by Xanthomonas campestris, is another disease that causes yellow or brown spots on leaves, leading to defoliation if untreated.
Pest Management
Sapele is also prone to various insect pests that can damage or kill the tree if left untreated. The most common insect pest is the Sapele Weevil, which lays eggs in the tree's bark, causing circular holes in the tree's trunk or branches. If left untreated, the holes can expand, severely damaging the tree's structure. Another common pest is the Sapele Longhorn Beetle, which burrows into the tree's bark, damaging the tree's vascular tissue. The larvae feed on the tree's sapwood, leading to stunted or deformed growth.
Management Strategies
Preventative management is key to maintaining the health of Sapele trees, as once diseases or pests become established, they can be challenging to control. Proper cultural practices, such as providing adequate water, fertilization and pruning, can help keep the tree healthy, reducing susceptibility to diseases and pests. In addition, chemical control measures, including fungicides and insecticides, can help control the spread of diseases and pests, but should be used carefully and strictly following instruction and recommendations from professionals.
