Overview: Lannea chevalieri Engl.
Lannea chevalieri Engl. is a deciduous plant species that belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. It is also known as the Missasa, African grapefruit, or the Ikongwe. The plant is native to West Africa, and it is mostly found in Nigeria and Cameroon.
General Appearance:
The Lannea chevalieri Engl. plant can grow up to 30 meters tall with a diameter of about 60 cm. The stem of the plant is grayish-brown in color and slightly rough. Its branches are thick with a rough, brownish, and longitudinally furrowed bark. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate. They are about 6cm long with a serrated margin, and the apex is acuminate. The flowers are borne in axillary clusters and are small, creamy-white, and fragrant. The fruit of the plant is an ellipsoid drupe, which is reddish or yellowish-brown in color, and it contains one seed.
Uses:
The Lannea chevalieri Engl. plant is of great importance to the local communities in West Africa. The fruit of the plant is commonly consumed, and it is used to make beverages, jams, and alcoholic drinks. The bark, leaves, and roots of the plant are also used for medicinal purposes. The plant has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help in treating malaria, skin infections, fever, and respiratory infections. In addition, the wood of the plant is commonly used for carpentry, furniture, and firewood.
In summary, Lannea chevalieri Engl. is a deciduous plant species that is commonly found in West Africa. Its fruits, bark, leaves, and roots have medicinal values, and it is useful for making beverages, jams, and furniture.Light Requirements:
Lannea chevalieri Engl. thrives best in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade as well. The plant requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily. Lack of sufficient light may lead to stunted growth, weak stems, and reduced yields.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant grows well in warm environments with daytime temperatures between 25°C and 30°C, but it can tolerate temperatures up to 40°C. At night, the temperature range should be between 20°C and 25°C. Cold temperatures below 10°C may harm the plant, and frost can be fatal.
Soil Requirements:
Lannea chevalieri Engl. prefers well-drained soils with moderate fertility. The plant can grow in different soil types, including light sandy soils, loam, and clay. It requires a pH range of 4 to 8.5 for optimal growth. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged, as waterlogged soils lead to root rot and reduced growth. In areas with heavy soils, it is advisable to improve drainage by adding compost or organic matter.
Cultivation of Lannea chevalieri Engl.
Lannea chevalieri Engl. is a plant that prefers to grow in a well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. It requires moderate temperatures, and it can be grown both in full sun and partial shade.
The best time to plant Lannea chevalieri Engl. is during the rainy season when the soil is moist. It is important to plant the seedlings at a depth of about 2-3cm from the soil surface, and then cover it with a thin layer of soil.
It is recommended to use organic fertilizer to improve soil fertility and give the plants a boost. Apply fertilizer once every three months to promote growth.
Watering Needs
Lannea chevalieri Engl. requires moderate watering. Water the plant only when the topsoil feels dry to the touch. Frequent watering can lead to root rot, which can harm the plant's health.
During the rainy season, there is no need to water the plant as it receives enough moisture from the rain. In contrast, water the plant once every two weeks in the dry season, when there is no rain.
Fertilization
Lannea chevalieri Engl. requires fertilization to maintain its growth and health. Use organic fertilizers such as compost or manure. Apply fertilizer once every three months, and use small amounts to avoid burning the plant's roots.
It is recommended to incorporate organic matter such as compost into the soil before planting. This will provide the plant with essential nutrients and improve soil quality.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential practice in maintaining the plant's shape and overall health. Prune the plant during the dry season to remove dead and diseased branches. This will improve the plant's appearance and promote new growth.
Also, prune the plant to remove any competitive branches that may interfere with its growth. Ensure that the pruning tools are clean and sterilized before use to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Lannea Chevalieri Engl.
Lannea chevalieri Engl. can be propagated by seed or stem cuttings. However, germinating the seed is quite difficult as it has a hard outer covering.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation of Lannea chevalieri via seed requires that the seed be extracted from the fruit and cleaned. The seed should be soaked in water for a few hours to soften the outer covering. The outer covering of the seed can then be scratched or cut in order to improve water and nutrient uptakes, which leads to faster germination. The seed can be sown in germination beds with a good spacing between the seeds. Keeping the soil moist ensures good germination. Germination typically takes about 8 -10 weeks.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation of Lannea chevalieri through stem cuttings is a bit easier. The stem cuttings should be taken from mature and healthy plants during the dormant season. The cuttings should be about 20-30cm long and should be treated with rooting hormone to improve the rooting process. The cuttings can then be planted in well-drained soil in a rooting medium such as sand or vermiculite. The plants should be kept in high humidity and bright light for successful rooting.
Disease and Pest Management for Lannea chevalieri Engl.
The Lannea chevalieri Engl., also known as the Yoruba balsam tree, is an African plant that is known for its medicinal properties. While the plant is known to be relatively hardy, it is still susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and how to manage them:
1. Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects many types of plants, including the Lannea chevalieri. When infected, leaves may develop a white, powdery substance on the surface. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to remove any infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Avoid overhead watering and allow for proper air circulation around the plants. Fungicides can also be effective at managing powdery mildew.
2. Canker
Canker is a fungal disease that affects the bark and branches of trees and shrubs. It can cause wilting, dieback, and can eventually kill the plant. To manage canker, it is important to prune out any infected branches and dispose of them properly. Keep the plant well-watered and healthy to reduce stress, which can make it more susceptible to infection.
3. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that are commonly found on many types of plants, including the Lannea chevalieri. They can cause discoloration, wilting, and can stunt growth. To manage spider mites, it is important to spray the plant with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Regularly misting the plant with water can also help keep spider mites at bay.
4. Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, sap-sucking pests that can cause wilting, yellowing, and deformity in plants. They are commonly found on the leaves and stems of many types of plants, including the Lannea chevalieri. To manage scale insects, it is important to prune out any heavily infected areas and dispose of them properly. You can also use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to manage scale insects.
By regularly inspecting your Lannea chevalieri, and taking appropriate actions when pests or diseases are found, you can help ensure the health and vitality of your plant. With proper care, your Lannea chevalieri can thrive and continue to provide you with its many benefits.
