Origin and Common Names
Guarea le-testui Pellegr. is a tropical evergreen tree species that is commonly found in the rainforests of central Africa. It belongs to the family Meliaceae and is known by various common names such as "Baillonella" and "Bongossi."
General Appearance
This tree species can grow up to 40 meters tall and has a straight trunk that is about 2 meters in diameter. The bark of the Guarea le-testui Pellegr. tree is grey-brownish and rough. Its leaves are pinnately compound, with 6-8 pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are elliptical, about 6-16cm long and finely saw-toothed. The Guarea le-testui Pellegr. tree produces yellow inflorescences and green to brown fruits that are about 6-8 cm long, each containing two seeds.
Uses
The Guarea le-testui Pellegr. tree has various uses, including medicinal, commercial, and cultural purposes. For instance, the tree's bark, leaves, and seeds are used to treat various ailments such as fever, malaria, and stomach issues. The tree's timber is highly valued for its durability, workability, and resistance to termites. It is commonly used in building and construction, as well as for making furniture, flooring, and decorative veneers. Additionally, the fruits and oil extracted from its seeds are used in the cosmetic industry for producing skin and hair care products. The Guarea le-testui Pellegr. tree also has cultural significance, as it is used in traditional rituals and ceremonies in some African communities.
Light Requirements
Guarea le-testui Pellegr. prefers to grow in partially shaded to fully shaded areas. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight for extended periods of time as it may lead to leaf scorching and reduced growth. However, it still requires some amount of light to carry out photosynthesis.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can withstand a range of temperatures. It grows well in temperatures between 20°C and 26°C but can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C. Frost and extremely low temperatures may damage the plant and affect its growth. In colder climates, it is best to grow the plant indoors in a greenhouse or under artificial grow lights.
Soil Requirements
Guarea le-testui Pellegr. can grow well in a variety of soil types as long as the soil is well-draining. It prefers moist, humus-rich, and slightly acidic soil conditions. However, the plant can tolerate some alkalinity as well. It is important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged as this can lead to the plant developing root rot. Adding organic matter and fertilizer to the soil can improve its fertility and promote plant growth.
Cultivation Method for Guarea le-testui Pellegr.
Guarea le-testui Pellegr. is a tropical plant that requires warm and humid growing conditions. It can be cultivated outdoors or indoors in a bright area with filtered light. The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level, and it also requires good air circulation to avoid fungal growth.
Watering Needs for Guarea le-testui Pellegr.
Guarea le-testui Pellegr. has moderate water requirements and prefers consistently moist soil. Water the plant when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry to the touch, and avoid letting the soil become waterlogged. The plant's water needs may vary depending on the temperature, humidity, and the size of the container or planting area.
Fertilization for Guarea le-testui Pellegr.
Guarea le-testui Pellegr. benefits from regular fertilization throughout the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month, or as per the specific requirements for the plant species to provide essential nutrients. Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to leaf burn or damage and affect the plant's growth.
Pruning Guarea le-testui Pellegr.
Guarea le-testui Pellegr. requires minimal pruning. To maintain its shape and encourage bushy growth, lightly prune the plant after the blooming season. Remove any damaged or diseased leaves or stems immediately to prevent the spread of infection. Additionally, cutting the stem tips can stimulate new growth.
Propagation of Guarea le-testui Pellegr.
Guarea le-testui Pellegr., also known as "bois de flèche," is a tree commonly found in tropical regions of Africa. It is highly valued for its wood and medicinal properties. Propagation of this plant can be done through two methods:
Seed Propagation
The first method of propagation is through seeds. The seeds of Guarea le-testui Pellegr. are obtained from the fruits of the tree. The fruit is a drupe that contains one or two seeds. The fruit is collected when it is ripe and the seeds are extracted by cutting open the fruit.
The extracted seeds must be cleaned and dried in the sun for a few days. This helps to remove any fruit pulp or leftover moisture. Once the seeds are completely dry, they can be stored in a cool and dry place until needed.
Before planting the seeds, they should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat. After soaking, the seeds can be planted in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The seeds will germinate in 2-4 weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
The second method of propagation is through cuttings. This method is used when there are no seeds available or when seed viability is low. Cuttings are taken from young branches of the tree.
Take a 6-8 inch stem cutting that has several leaf nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist. The cutting should root in 4-6 weeks.
Propagation of Guarea le-testui Pellegr. through seeds or cuttings is a simple process that can be done by anyone. With proper care, the propagated plants will grow into healthy trees that can be used for various purposes.
Disease Management:
Guarea le-testui Pellegr. is susceptible to fungal diseases like leaf spots, powdery mildew, anthracnose, and Fusarium wilt. To manage fungal diseases, it is recommended to remove infected plant debris to reduce the spread of disease. Additionally, use fungicide sprays according to label instructions to prevent or control fungal invasion.
Pest Management:
Common pests that can affect Guarea le-testui Pellegr. are aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests feed on plant sap and cause significant damage if not managed early. To control pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to target the pests. As a preventative measure, use sticky traps to monitor and reduce the population of pests. Also, avoid using chemical pesticides unless it is necessary because it can cause harm to beneficial insects.
