Description of Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev.
Landolphia tomentella, also known as the African bola rubber vine, is a large woody liana found in Central and West Africa. It belongs to the family Apocynaceae and the genus Landolphia. The plant can reach up to 60 meters in length and has a stem diameter of up to 20 cm.
General Appearance
The bark of L. tomentella is grayish-brown and smooth when young, becoming rough and corky with age. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptic in shape, with a pointed tip. They are around 15-30 cm long and 7-14 cm wide. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, measuring around 2 cm in diameter. The fruit is a large woody capsule containing many seeds.
Common Names
The African bola rubber vine is known by several other common names, including African bola, bola vine, bola rubber vine, Congo bola, and rubber vine. It is also sometimes referred to as African rubber.
Uses of Landolphia tomentella
The latex obtained from the African bola rubber vine is a valuable commercial product. It is used in the manufacture of rubber-based products, including tires, footwear, and conveyor belts. The inner bark of the plant is also used for making ropes, twine, and fishing nets. In traditional medicine, the plant has been used to treat various health conditions, including fever, diarrhea, and snakebites.
Growth Conditions of Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev.
Light: Landolphia tomentella thrive best in bright to moderate indirect light. It is essential to avoid direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves and hinder the growth of this plant.
Temperature: The ideal temperature range for the optimal growth of Landolphia tomentella is between 18-27°C (65-80°F). It needs to be kept in a warm spot with good air circulation, away from drafts or sudden temperature changes.
Humidity: These plants are adapted to the tropical climate, and they require a humid environment to thrive. The ideal humidity range is between 50%-70%. A humidity tray or regular misting can help to keep the humidity level consistent around the plant.
Soil: When it comes to soil, Landolphia tomentella prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of loamy soil and perlite can ensure proper drainage and provide adequate nutrients for the plant's growth.
Water: Over-watering can be detrimental to Landolphia tomentella's growth. It is essential to allow the topsoil to dry before watering again. The frequency of watering depends on factors such as temperature, humidity, and soil type. Typically, once a week is sufficient for healthy growth.
Fertilizer: Regular fertilization during spring and summer can help promote healthy foliage and flowering. A balanced liquid fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied every two weeks.
Propagation: Landolphia tomentella can be propagated through stem cuttings or seeds. Stem cuttings are the most common method and should be taken during the growing season. The cuttings should be placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, humid environment until roots develop.
Cultivation methods
The Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev. plant grows well in a warm and humid climate. It thrives in well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The plant can be propagated through cuttings or seeds.
Watering needs
The Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev. plant requires regular watering to keep its soil moist. The frequency of watering may vary according to the weather conditions, but it is generally recommended to water the plant at least twice a week.
Fertilization
The Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev. plant can benefit from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and development. The fertilizer should be high in potassium and phosphorus, and low in nitrogen to avoid excessive vegetative growth. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied once every two to three months.
Pruning
The Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev. plant benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and size. Dead or diseased branches should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of disease. Pruning can be done after the plant has finished flowering, and it is recommended to wear gloves to protect from the plant's toxic sap.
Propagation of Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev.
Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev., commonly known as Wengé or Tchitola, is a woody liana plant species that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. It is native to tropical Africa, specifically found in Angola, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Gabon, Nigeria, and Zaire. Propagation of this plant species can be achieved through different methods including seed germination, vegetative propagation, and cutting.
Seed Propagation
The propagation of Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev through seed germination is possible, but it requires careful handling due to the hard seed coat. The seed coat has to be broken by mechanical treatments like filing or scarification to allow for moisture absorption. Soaking the seeds in water overnight can also increase the germination rate. The seeds should be sown in a well-drained soil mix and kept at a temperature of about 25-30°C. Germination usually takes 3-4 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev can be done through different methods including layering and air-layering. In layering, a portion of the stem is covered with soil or moss while still attached to the plant. Once roots have formed, the stem can be cut and transplanted. Air-layering involves wrapping a section of the stem in moist moss or soil and covering it in plastic until roots form. The rooted stem section can then be cut and planted.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation of Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev through cuttings is an easy and practical method. Cuttings should be taken from new growth, preferably as semi-hardwood cuttings with a length of 10-15 cm. Cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and sowed in well-drained soil. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a shaded place until roots have formed. After that, they can be moved to a sunny place and transplanted once they have developed enough foliage.
Disease and Pest Management of Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev.
Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev., commonly known as Yoruba rubber or ekuku, is vulnerable to both diseases and pests. Effective disease and pest management practices are essential to ensure the health and productivity of the plant.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that affect Landolphia tomentella include root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by soil-borne pathogens, which infect the roots of the plant, leading to decay. To manage root rot, it is essential to prevent overwatering and ensure proper drainage. Fungicides can be applied to protect the plant from further infection.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes dark, circular spots on the leaves of the plant. To prevent the disease, it is crucial to maintain proper hygiene by removing and destroying infected leaves. Fungicides can be applied to prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that creates a powdery, white substance on the leaves of the plant. To control the disease, it is necessary to remove and destroy infected leaves and maintain proper ventilation and humidity levels. Fungicides can be used to prevent further infection.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Landolphia tomentella include aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites.
Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that weaken the plant by draining its nutrients. To control aphids, the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil spray is recommended. Additionally, natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced to manage the population of aphids.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap of the plant and excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold. Mealybugs can be controlled by removing and destroying infected plant parts and introducing natural predators such as parasitic wasps and ladybugs.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, spider-like pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing leaves to turn yellow and ultimately fall off. To control spider mites, it is recommended to increase the humidity around the plant, prune and discard infected leaves, and use of insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
Effective management of diseases and pests in Landolphia tomentella (Stapf) A.Chev. var. subnuda A.Chev. requires timely detection, prevention, and control measures. Regular monitoring and maintaining a healthy growing environment are essential to promote the longevity and productivity of the plant.
