Overview
Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. is a tree species that belongs to the family Meliaceae. It is native to Yemen and is known for its various medicinal uses. The plant is also known by several common names such as "Ominated Mahogany," "Bedj Mahogany," and "Yemen Mahogany."
Description
The plant grows up to 20 meters high and has a trunk diameter of up to 60 cm. The bark of the tree is dark grey to brown, and the wood is a reddish-brown color. The leaves are pinnate, with 5 to 9 leaflets. The leaflets are oblong in shape and about 5-15 cm long. The tree produces small white flowers that are about 5 mm in diameter. The fruit is a round, smooth capsule, about 4-5 cm in diameter, and contains three seeds.
Uses
Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. is widely used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The bark and leaves of the plant have been used to treat malaria, fever, and headaches. The roots and fruits have been used to treat rheumatism and as an abortifacient. The wood of the tree is also used in making furniture, musical instruments, and veneers.
Additionally, the tree is used in reforestation and for shade in coffee and cocoa plantations.
However, the plant is under threat due to overexploitation for its wood and is considered as an endangered species. Therefore, sustainable use of this plant is essential for its conservation.
Growth Conditions of Guarea oyemensis Pellegr.
Light Requirements: Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. is a shade-tolerant plant that grows naturally in the understory of tropical rainforests. It can tolerate low-light conditions, and therefore, it should be placed in bright, indirect sunlight when cultivated indoors. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and stunt the growth of the plant.
Temperature Requirements: The plant is native to tropical regions and requires warm temperatures ranging between 20 to 27°C for optimal growth. Temperatures below 16°C can harm the plant, causing its leaves to wilt and drop. It should be noted that Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. can survive in a wide range of temperatures and can tolerate short periods of hot spells and even drought.
Soil Requirements: The plant thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix comprised of equal parts of peat, coarse sand, and perlite provides the required nutrients and ensures that water flows freely through the soil. A PH level of 5.5 to 6.5 is optimal for Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. Avoid soils that contain excessive clay, which causes water-logging, leading to root rot.
Water Requirements: The plant prefers consistent moisture, but it should not be overwatered. Watering once a week is suitable, but the frequency should increase during hot and dry days. Watering should be reduced during the winter months when the plant goes dormant. The first inch of soil should dry before watering.
Cultivation Methods for Guarea oyemensis Pellegr.
Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. is a plant species that requires a tropical climate with full sun exposure. Therefore, it is advisable to plant it in a location with high temperatures and humidity. During the winter season, the plant should be protected from frost and cold winds. It can be propagated by seeds, stem cuttings, or grafting.
Watering Needs
Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. requires adequate watering to thrive. Watering should be done regularly, especially during the dry season. Before watering, check the soil's moisture content and wait for the soil to dry out slightly before watering it again. Avoid overwatering as it may lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the healthy growth of Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. Using organic fertilizers such as compost, manure, or bone meal is recommended. Apply fertilizers once every two months during the growing season, starting from spring to early autumn.
Pruning
Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. requires pruning to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Pruning should be done annually during the early spring to promote new growth. You can also prune to shape the plant or control its size. Ensure to sanitize pruning tools with rubbing alcohol to prevent spreading diseases.
Propagation of Guarea oyemensis Pellegr.
Propagation of Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. can be done through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
In its natural habitat, Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. produces seeds during the rainy season. The seeds can then be collected, treated with fungicides, and sown in pots or on seedbeds. The ideal germination conditions for the seeds are in a warm and humid area with filtered sunlight. Germination usually takes between 2-3 months.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. is done through stem cuttings. Cuttings with a minimum of 3-4 nodes and a diameter of at least 1 cm are taken from the mother plant. The cuttings are then treated with hormone rooting powder and planted in a mixture of sand and soil. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area and misted regularly. Roots usually develop within 2-3 months.
In summary, Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. can be propagated through sexual means using seeds and asexual means using stem cuttings.
Disease Management
Guarea oyemensis Pellegr. is generally a healthy species, but the following diseases have been reported:
- Leaf Spot: Caused by the fungus Cercospora guareae, this disease occurs during the wet season and affects leaves. Initial symptoms include small, tan-colored spots that gradually enlarge and turn brown with a yellow halo. To manage it, remove all infected leaves and dispose of them away from the plant to prevent further infection.
- Rust: This disease is caused by the fungus Phakopsora guareae, and symptoms include yellowish-orange pustules on the undersides of leaves and stems. Leaves may also become yellow and drop. To manage it, prune infected branches and remove all fallen leaves and debris.
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, and symptoms include brown spots on the leaves and stem cankers. To manage it, prune infected branches and dispose of them away from the plant.
Pest Management
The following pests have been reported to affect Guarea oyemensis Pellegr.:
- Scale Insects: These pests have a white, waxy appearance and can be found on the leaves and stems. They suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage them, use a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant.
- Caterpillars: The larvae of some moth species can feed on the leaves and can cause severe damage to the plant. To manage them, inspect the plant regularly and remove any larvae that are found.
- Mealybugs: These pests appear as white, cotton-like clusters on leaves and stems. They also suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing. To manage them, use a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them from the plant.
