Origin and Common Names
Greenwayodendron suaveolens (Engl. & Diels) Verdc. var. gabonica (Pellegr. ex Le Thomas) Verdc. is a species of evergreen tree native to central and western Africa, specifically in Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Gabon, and Equatorial Guinea. It is commonly known as Gabonese Greenwayodendron or African Greenwayodendron.General Appearance
The Gabonese Greenwayodendron is a large tree that can grow up to 40 meters tall. It has a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 100 cm, with a rounded canopy and well-branched crown. Its bark is smooth and grey in colour. The green, leathery leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical, with a length of 8-20 cm and a width of 3-10 cm. Its flowers are small and white with a sweet fragrance, appearing in clusters of up to 10 together on its branches.Uses
Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica has a variety of uses. Its wood is used in the construction of buildings, bridges, and furniture due to its durability and resistance to decay. The tree also provides shade in parks and gardens. Its leaves are used in traditional medicine to treat several ailments including hypertension, malaria and diabetes. The tree's bark and roots have been used as an insecticide, while the bark exudate has been used in perfumes, soaps, and detergents. In summary, Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica is a versatile and valuable tree that has economic, medicinal, and ornamental uses. Its large size and pleasing fragrance make it a popular choice for the lumber industry and urban greening projects.Light Requirements
Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica requires bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade to thrive. It is adapted to grow in the understory of tropical forests, where it receives filtered sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 10°C (50°F).
Soil Requirements
Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it does not tolerate waterlogged or extremely dry soils.
Cultivation methods
The Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica is a tropical evergreen tree native to Africa. It requires a warm and humid climate to thrive and does best in well-draining soils. The tree grows up to 50 feet tall and can be grown indoors as a houseplant or outdoors in a garden. The plant is tolerant of shade and can be grown under taller trees.
Watering needs
The Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica requires regular watering, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil moist. However, it is crucial not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot. Check the soil's moisture level regularly and water whenever the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. During the dormant season, reduce watering to keep the soil slightly drier.
Fertilization
Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica requires regular fertilization to support healthy growth and development. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, along with micronutrients. Apply the fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season, and reduce it to once a month during the dormant stage.
Pruning
Pruning the Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica is necessary to maintain the desired shape and size. Do this once a year during the dormant period, removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Thin the canopy to promote airflow and light penetration, but avoid over-pruning as this can weaken the tree.
Propagation of Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica
Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica is typically propagated through seed or cuttings. However, seed propagation is more commonly used as cuttings can be difficult to root.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica should be collected from the parent plant when the fruit has ripened and turned brown. The seeds should be stratified for a few weeks before sowing in order to break dormancy. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture and keep moist.
The seeds should germinate within 2-3 weeks, but can take up to a few months. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they are large enough to be planted in their permanent location.
Cutting Propagation
Cuttings of Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica should be taken in the early summer, as this is when the plant is actively growing. Take 6-8 inch cuttings from the parent plant, making sure to remove any flowers or buds, and strip the lower leaves off the cutting.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The cuttings will need to be kept moist and in a humid environment to encourage rooting, such as by covering them with a plastic bag. Rooting should occur within 6-8 weeks.
Once the cuttings have developed enough roots, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they are large enough to be planted in their permanent location.
Disease Management for Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica
Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation if left untreated. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and use a fungicide according to package instructions.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can lead to root rot, which causes the roots to turn brown and mushy. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. If root rot is present, remove affected roots and repot in fresh soil.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes brown or black lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruit of the plant. To manage anthracnose, remove infected plant debris and use a fungicide according to package instructions.
Pest Management for Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica
Greenwayodendron suaveolens var. gabonica can also be affected by several pests, including:
- Scale insects: These pests attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant, sucking out sap and causing yellowing or curling of the leaves. To manage scale insects, remove affected leaves and stems and use an insecticide according to package instructions.
- Spider mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to see with the naked eye, but can cause yellowing or bronzing of the leaves and the formation of fine webbing. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to dislodge them and use an insecticide according to package instructions.
- Aphids: These pests also suck sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing curling or distortion of the leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them and use an insecticide according to package instructions.
