Origin and Common Names
Gilbertiodendron demonstrans (Baill.) J.Léonard, commonly known as the Wawa tree, is a large deciduous tree found in tropical Africa. It is native to West and Central Africa, particularly in countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, and Nigeria. The Wawa tree is a member of the Fabaceae family, which is also commonly known as the legume or pea family.
General Appearance
The Wawa tree is a large, tall tree that can grow up to 60 meters in height. It has a straight trunk with a rough bark texture that can range from dark brown to grey, and can grow up to two meters in diameter. The leaves of the Wawa tree are dark-green in color with a glossy appearance and can grow up to 15 cm in length. The flowers are small and produce clusters of seeds that are contained in woody pods.
Uses
The Wawa tree is a valuable timber tree that has been used for centuries in Africa for its wood. The wood of the Wawa tree is strong, durable, and resistant to insect attacks, making it a popular choice for construction purposes. It is commonly used to make furniture, flooring, and other wooden items. Additionally, the bark of the Wawa tree has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The seeds of the Wawa tree are also edible and can be roasted or boiled and eaten as a snack or used in the production of oil.
In conclusion, Gilbertiodendron demonstrans (Baill.) J.Léonard, or the Wawa tree, is a large deciduous tree native to West and Central Africa. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and is valued for its strong, durable timber, as well as its bark's medicinal properties and the edible seeds.Light Requirements
Gilbertiodendron demonstrans (Baill.) J.Léonard is a shade tolerant species that thrives under full shade to full sun. However, it is highly recommended to grow the plant under partial shade to avoid stunted growth. Under full sunlight exposure, the plant experiences high heat levels that can lead to leaf scorching and dry conditions that can reduce its growth rate.
Temperature Requirements
The plant has a wide temperature tolerance range, adapting well to both tropical and subtropical regions with average temperatures of about 20°C to 32°C. However, it can withstand temperature extremes of as low as 10°C and as high as 40°C but with reduced growth rates and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
Gilbertiodendron demonstrans (Baill.) J.Léonard requires well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It grows best in sandy soil with a high water-holding capacity and a slightly acidic to neutral pH level of between 5 to 7. It can also tolerate clayey soils, but they tend to retain too much water, leading to waterlogging and ultimately root rot.
Cultivation and Care of Gilbertiodendron Demonstrans
Gilbertiodendron Demonstrans, also known as Wengué, is a large tree species native to Central and West Africa. It is grown primarily for its durable and attractive wood, which is used in furniture-making and construction. If you are interested in cultivating this species, here are some important tips to keep in mind:
Site Selection
Choose a site with well-draining soil and ample sunlight. Gilbertiodendron Demonstrans requires a lot of space to grow and can reach heights of up to 50 meters, so make sure you have enough room to accommodate a tree of this size.
Planting
Plant your seedling in a hole that is twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball. Gilbertiodendron Demonstrans is typically planted during the rainy season, as this helps the tree establish itself more quickly.
Watering Needs
Young trees require regular watering to ensure adequate root growth and establishment. Once the tree is established, it can tolerate some drought, but it is still important to water it during prolonged dry spells.
Fertilization
Gilbertiodendron Demonstrans requires a fertilizer high in nitrogen to promote leaf growth and wood production. Apply fertilizer in the beginning of the rainy season and again during the dry season.
Pruning
Prune Gilbertiodendron Demonstrans during the dry season to control its shape and promote branching. Remove any dead or diseased branches as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease to healthy parts of the tree.
Propagation of Gilbertiodendron demonstrans (Baill.) J.Léonard Plant
Gilbertiodendron demonstrans (Baill.) J.Léonard is a tropical tree that is native to the Congo Basin and is widely used as a timber and medicinal plant. The plant can be propagated through different methods, including seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and tissue culture propagation.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Gilbertiodendron demonstrans (Baill.) J.Léonard. The plant produces seeds in large pods that ripen in the dry season. The seeds must be collected from the tree when they are mature and dried in the sun before sowing them in seedling trays or pots. To improve the germination rate, the seeds can be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing them. The seedlings should be kept in a warm, humid place and watered regularly until they are strong enough to be transplanted in the field.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation is another method of propagating Gilbertiodendron demonstrans (Baill.) J.Léonard. This method involves taking cuttings from the parent tree and planting them in soil or rooting hormone. The cuttings should be taken from healthy branches and stripped of their lower leaves before they are planted. The cuttings should be kept moist and warm while they develop roots, and then transplanted in a suitable growing environment.
Tissue culture propagation
Tissue culture propagation is a more advanced method of propagating Gilbertiodendron demonstrans (Baill.) J.Léonard. This method involves taking a small piece of tissue from the parent plant and growing it in a sterile environment. Tissue culture propagation can help to preserve the genetic diversity of the plant and produce large numbers of identical plants in a short amount of time. However, tissue culture propagation is a complicated and expensive process that requires specialized equipment and expertise.
Disease Management
Gilbertiodendron demonstrans is susceptible to a few diseases that could potentially impact its growth and productivity. One common disease that affects this plant is Root Rot, which is caused by Phytophthora sp. This disease causes the rotting of the root system leading to water and nutrient deficiency and eventual death of the plant. To manage this disease, it is crucial to plant the seeds on well-drained soils, avoid overwatering, and ensure proper soil aeration. Application of fungicides can also help control the spread of the disease.
Another disease that affects Gilbertiodendron demonstrans is Powdery Mildew, which is caused by the fungus Oidium sp. This disease attacks the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to become whitish-gray powdery in appearance. The impacted parts of the plant may eventually dry up and fall off. To control this disease, regularly spray the plant with fungicides and maintain proper plant spacing to increase ventilation.
Pest Management
Gilbertiodendron demonstrans is also susceptible to some pests that could harm its growth and productivity. One common pest that affects this plant is the Caterpillar, which feeds on the leaves and stems. These pests can lead to defoliation and substantial damage to the plant. To control them, prune and remove the affected plant parts, and spray the plant with insecticides that contain Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt).
Another common pest that affects Gilbertiodendron demonstrans is Scale Insects. These pests are small and typically attack the plant's leaves and stems, sucking sap from the plant. The pests cause the plant to become weak, stunted, and may transmit diseases. To control the pest, use horticultural oils and insecticides, maintain plant hygiene, and avoid over-fertilization.
