Overview
Faurea natalensis E.Phillips commonly known as Natal Beech or Zulunhlezi, is a tree native to Southern Africa, specifically found in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Eswatini and eastern Botswana. It has a wide range of uses and is significant for its unique and attractive appearance.
Appearance
The Natal Beech is an evergreen tree that can reach a height of up to 20 meters. Its trunk often has multiple stems and its bark is smooth and grey. The tree has long, narrow, and pointed leaves that grow up to 10 cm long and 3 cm wide. The leaves are dark green and have a glossy finish, giving the tree an attractive appearance. The tree’s flowers are small and clustered, with a yellow-green color, whereas its fruit is a small, red-brown capsule that contains one or two seeds.
Uses
The Natal Beech has a range of traditional and commercial uses. Its durable wood is used for making furniture, flooring, and carving. Its bark has medicinal properties and is used for treating various ailments such as stomach complaints, fever, and diarrhea. The tree’s leaves are used to make natural dyes, whereas its fruit provides a food source for birds and mammals.
Light Requirements
Faurea natalensis E.Phillips thrives in a wide range of light intensities, from full sun to partial shade. However, for optimal growth and development, it is recommended to provide the plant with bright, indirect light. In low light conditions, the plant may grow slowly and become leggy.
Temperature Requirements
Faurea natalensis E.Phillips is native to South Africa and is adapted to a range of temperatures. The plant can tolerate hot, dry conditions, as well as cooler temperatures. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 15-30°C (59-86°F). Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 5°C (41°F) and above 35°C (95°F).
Soil Requirements
Faurea natalensis E.Phillips prefers well-draining, sandy soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH for growth is between 6.0-7.5. The plant can tolerate occasional periods of drought, but perform best when soil moisture is consistent. Avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil is not waterlogged.
Cultivation methods
Faurea natalensis, also known as the Natal faurea, is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall. It is fast-growing and drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for arid regions. When planting, choose a sunny location with well-draining soil. The tree is also frost hardy, making it suitable for cool regions.
Propagation can be done by sowing seed or vegetative propagation. Seedlings must be planted in well-prepared soil and kept moist until they are established. This tree requires minimal attention after establishment, making it an easy tree to cultivate.
Watering needs
Faurea natalensis is drought-tolerant but requires regular watering during its first year of growth. During dry periods, it is essential to water the plant once or twice a week. As the tree matures, it becomes more drought-resistant and requires less water.
Fertilization
The Natal faurea is generally a low maintenance plant that does not require much fertilization. If the soil is impoverished, you can improve it by adding organic matter. Young trees benefit from a balanced fertilizer applied at half the recommended dosage during the growing season.
As the tree matures, the need for fertilization diminishes, and it can thrive with just organic matter added to the soil.
Pruning
The Natal faurea does not require much pruning. Pruning is recommended to remove dead branches or to control its size and shape. Pruning is best done in spring before new growth starts.
Young trees may require some training to achieve the desired shape or form. This tree can also handle hard pruning to rejuvenate old plants or to control their size in small gardens.
Propagation of Faurea natalensis E.Phillips
Faurea natalensis E.Phillips, commonly known as the Natal greenheart, is a slow-growing, evergreen tree species native to South Africa. It is a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers because of its attractive foliage and showy flowers. Propagation of Faurea natalensis can be done using different methods, including seed propagation, cuttings, layering, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common way of propagating Faurea natalensis. The recommended time to collect seeds is from July to August. The collected seeds should be cleaned of any pulp and stored in a cool, dry place until it is time to sow them. To improve germination rates, soak the seeds in warm water overnight before sowing them in a well-draining potting mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and place the pot in a shaded area. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination can take up to 8 weeks.
Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings can be done in the spring or summer season. Take cuttings from current season growth, making sure that they have at least one node. Remove the leaves at the bottom of the cutting, leaving only 2-3 leaves at the top. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide a humid environment by placing a plastic bag over the pot. Roots should develop within 4-6 weeks.
Layering
Layering is a propagation method that involves bending a low hanging branch to the ground and covering it with soil. The branch will form roots where it is in contact with the soil. After a few months, cut the branch from the parent plant and transplant the new plant to its permanent location. Layering is best done in the spring season.
Grafting
Grafting involves joining a cutting (scion) of the desired plant onto the rootstock of another plant. Grafting is a more advanced propagation method and requires knowledge of plant physiology. It is often used to propagate cultivars, although it can also be used for Faurea natalensis. Grafting is typically done in the spring season when the plants are actively growing.
Disease Management
Faurea natalensis is susceptible to various diseases that can significantly reduce its growth and yield. Some of the common diseases that affect the plant include:
- Leaf spot disease: This disease can cause the plant leaves to turn brown and eventually fall off. It is caused by fungal pathogens such as Cercospora and Septoria and can be managed by pruning infected leaves and treating the plant with fungicides.
- Canker disease: This is a fungal disease that causes cankers on the plant stems and branches. It can lead to reduced growth and yield of the plant. To manage this disease, prune the infected parts and treat the plant with a fungicide.
- Root rot: This is a common disease caused by fungal pathogens such as Phytophthora. It can lead to the death of the plant. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage, avoid over-watering, and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Pest Management
Faurea natalensis is also susceptible to pest attacks that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some of the common pests that affect the plant include:
- Scale insects: These insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing reduced growth and yield. To manage them, prune the infected parts and treat the plant with insecticides.
- Mites: These pests can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and reduced yield. To manage them, introduce natural predators and treat the plant with miticides.
- Caterpillars: These pests can eat the leaves of the plant and reduce its growth and yield. To manage them, pick them off by hand or treat the plant with insecticides.
