Description of Lannea bagirmensis Engl.
Lannea bagirmiensis Engl. is a small to medium-sized tree, which belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. This plant is commonly found in the tropical regions of Africa particularly in the central part of the continent. It is known by different names in different regions such as Langoko (Lingala), Mknge (Swahili) and Ogirri (Amharic).
General Appearance
The tree is characterized by a straight trunk with smooth brown bark which usually peels off in rectangular flakes. Its branches are spreading and the tree grows up to 20 meters tall. The leaves are alternate, deciduous, and pinnately compound but have uneven leaflets in different sizes. The flowers are small and yellowish-green in color while the fruits are spherical, fleshy, and green turning to red-brown when ripe.
Uses of Lannea bagirmensis Engl.
Almost every part of the tree especially the bark, leaves, and fruits are used for medicinal purposes in traditional African medicine. The bark is used as a treatment for various ailments such as fever, stomach disorders, and infertility. The leaves are believed to have antimicrobial activity and are used in treating skin infections. The fruits are edible and have been used to make jams, wine, and traditional medicine for treating diarrhea.
The wood of Lannea bagirmiensis Engl. is dense and durable and is used in making furniture and timber. The tree is also important in soil conservation, as it is used for reforestation and erosion control.
In conclusion, Lannea bagirmiensis Engl. is an important and multi-functional tree, which has numerous advantages for both humans and the environment.
Light Requirements
Lannea bagirmensis Engl. prefers full sunlight with some shade in the afternoon. It can tolerate some shading, but its growth may be inhibited, and leaf size may be reduced. Therefore, growing in a location with plenty of bright and direct sunlight is beneficial for the growth of this plant.
Temperature Requirements
Lannea bagirmensis Engl. thrives in warm to hot temperatures but can tolerate lower temperature ranges. It is best grown in temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). When exposed to temperatures outside of the optimal temperature range, it may exhibit slowed growth or become dormant.
Soil Requirements
Lannea bagirmensis Engl. grows well in well-drained soil types, ranging from sandy to clay. The soil should be deep enough to accommodate its long roots, which prefer to grow in moist soil. A soil pH of 5.5 to 7.5 is suitable for optimal growth of the plant. Adding organic matter to the soil, such as compost, will increase the soil's fertility and encourage healthy growth of the plant.
Cultivation
Lannea bagirmensis Engl. can be cultivated from seeds or through vegetative propagation. When propagating through seeds, it is best to sow them in seedbeds during the rainy season. The seeds require minimal preparation and should be sown at a depth of 2-3 cm. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks. For vegetative propagation, stem cuttings of about 20 cm can be taken from mature, healthy plants and planted in a well-draining potting mix.
Watering Needs
Lannea bagirmensis Engl. prefers moderate watering. It can tolerate dry conditions, but it is important to ensure that the soil doesn't dry out completely. During the rainy season, it may not require additional watering. However, during the dry season, it is important to water it once every two weeks or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10:10:10 can be applied once every three months during the growing season. Avoid excessive fertilization as it can result in stunted growth and may make the plant susceptible to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Pruning can help to shape the plant and stimulate growth. It is best to prune during the dry season when the plant is dormant. Cut back any dead or damaged branches, and shape the plant as desired. Take care to avoid cutting back too much, as it may result in reduced flowering or fruit production.
Propagation of Lannea bagirmensis Engl.
Lannea bagirmensis Engl., commonly known as the African grapefruit, can be propagated by seeds and vegetative methods such as stem cuttings and air layering.
Seeds
Seeds are the easiest and most common method of propagating Lannea bagirmensis. Collect the mature fruits from the tree and extract the seeds. Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to soften the hard coat. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist. Germination may take up to six weeks. Once the seedlings have grown a few leaves, they can be transplanted to a bigger pot or directly into the ground in a sunny spot.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken from a healthy parent tree in the spring or summer. Choose a stem that is firm and has no signs of disease or damage. Cut a 6-inch section of the stem and remove all the leaves except for the top two. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a potting mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and place it in a shaded area. After a few weeks, the stem should root. Once it has rooted, transplant it to a bigger pot or directly into the ground in a sunny spot.
Air Layering
Air layering is a technique used to propagate mature, woody plants such as Lannea bagirmensis. Choose a healthy branch and make a small cut just below a node. Keep the cut open with a toothpick and pack it with moist sphagnum moss. Wrap the moss with plastic wrap and seal it with tape. Leave the branch for a few months until roots have formed. Once roots have formed, cut the branch just below the new roots and plant it in a potting mix. Water the new plant and wait for growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Lannea Bagirmensis Engl.
Lannea Bagirmensis Engl. is known for its medicinal properties and used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments. The plant is known to be resistant to pests and diseases. However, under certain conditions, it might become susceptible to pests and diseases. Proper management techniques should be applied to prevent and reduce damage.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that affect Lannea Bagirmensis Engl. are fungal attacks such as anthracnose and powdery mildew. Anthracnose causes leaf blight and cankers on stems. Powdery mildew attacks leaves, causing a white powdery growth, which affects photosynthesis. Fungi infect the plant during warm and wet conditions, making it important to maintain proper hygiene practices, including removing infected parts and improving airflow in the growing area.
Pest Management
Although Lannea Bagirmensis Engl. is resistant to pests, they still may be affected by some common pests such as caterpillars and beetles. Insect control can be achieved through regular scouting of plants and physical removal of pests. Insecticidal soaps and oils can also be used. Neem-based products are also effective in controlling pests and can act as antifeedants and oviposition deterrents.
Disease Management
To manage fungal diseases, cultural practices such as avoiding wetting the foliage early in the day and improving ventilation to reduce humidity in the growing area are crucial. Fungicides can also be used, but caution should be exercised to prevent plant injury. Additionally, using disease-free planting material, maintaining proper sanitation, and crop rotation practices also help in preventing some of the fungal diseases.
In conclusion, proper hygiene practices, regular monitoring, and prompt management practices can help prevent the damages of pests and diseases in Lannea Bagirmensis Engl. This will help maintain the plant's overall health and ensure the quality and quantity of produce.
