Overview of Lannea velutina A.Rich.
Lannea velutina A.Rich. is a deciduous tree native to Africa. It belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. The plant is also known by various common names, such as velvet seed tree, amahewu, orum-nagila, and sesehe.
Physical Characteristics of Lannea velutina A.Rich.
The Lannea velutina A.Rich. tree can reach up to 15 m in height. The bark of the tree is dark gray with cracks, and its leaves are pinnate with 4-7 pairs of bright green leaflets. The tree blooms in the fall, and its flowers are small and white or yellow.
The fruit of the Lannea velutina A.Rich. tree is a five-lobed drupe that is roughly 2.5 cm long and covered in dense, reddish-brown hairs that have a velvet-like texture. The fruit contains a single large seed and is edible.
Uses of Lannea velutina A.Rich.
The fruit of Lannea velutina A.Rich. is used for various purposes in Africa. In southern Africa, the fruit is used to make a traditional drink known as "amahewu" or "phophophwane." This drink is made by fermenting the fruit in water and is often used as a refreshing beverage or a meal replacement.
In addition to being consumed as a food, various parts of the Lannea velutina A.Rich. tree have traditional medicinal uses. The bark and leaves of the tree are used to treat various ailments, including diarrhea, fever, and skin infections.
The Lannea velutina A.Rich. tree is also valued for its timber. The wood is used to make furniture, construction materials, and utensils.
Light Requirements
Lannea velutina A.Rich. grows well in bright sunlight or partially shaded conditions. The plant can tolerate intense light but performs better in shaded conditions. When grown indoors, the plant should be placed near a window where it can receive some sunlight every day. However, direct exposure to sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
Lannea velutina A.Rich. thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C but won't grow well under such conditions. It is essential to note that the plant is not frost-resistant and should not be exposed to freezing temperatures. During winter or cold months, the plant should be moved to a warm location with temperatures above 15°C.
Soil Requirements
Lannea velutina A.Rich. can grow in a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, or clay soils. However, the soil must be well-drained to prevent waterlogging and root rot. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, but excessive watering should be avoided as it can cause root rot. Fertilizers rich in nitrogen content should be used to improve the soil's fertility and promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
The Lannea velutina plant thrives best in well-drained soil with partial shade to full sun. When planting your Lannea velutina sapling, dig a hole that is wider than the root ball but of the same depth. The plant requires adequate spacing for proper growth and development. As it grows, make sure to provide adequate support by tying it to a stake with a soft piece of fabric or twine.
Watering Needs
Lannea velutina saplings need moderate watering on a regular basis to encourage healthy growth. Overwatering may lead to waterlogged roots and subsequently cause root rot, while under-watering may adversely affect growth and development. Water the plants moderately, preferably twice a week, especially during the summer months. This plant cannot survive in extended periods of drought, so be sure to water them consistently.
Fertilization
To keep the Lannea velutina plant healthy and thriving, fertilization is crucial. Use a balanced fertilizer, preferably organic, during the growing season, which is between mid-spring and late summer. Apply the fertilizer every four weeks, following the manufacturer's recommendations.
Pruning
Regular pruning helps to maintain the Lannea velutina plant's shape and size. Prune your plant in early spring to remove any damaged or dead growth. As a general rule, remove less than a third of the tree canopy each year to avoid damaging the plant. Training your plant to grow in a specific direction or shape may also require pruning.
Propagation of Lannea velutina A.Rich.
Lannea velutina A.Rich., commonly known as the velvet Lannea, can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, and air-layering. The most convenient method for propagating this plant depends mainly on the availability of the resources required for each technique.
Propagation by Seeds
The propagation of Lannea velutina A.Rich. by seeds is the most commonly used method. The seeds of this plant germinate quickly, and the success of this method depends mainly on the freshness and viability of the seeds. The seeds are sown in a well-draining medium at a depth of half to one inch. After sowing, the seeds should be kept in a shady place and kept moist until they germinate, which can take up to two weeks. The germinated seedlings can then be transferred to individual containers or directly to a garden bed.
Propagation by Cuttings
The propagation of Lannea velutina A.Rich. by cuttings is a convenient method when a sufficient number of cuttings are available, especially when seeds are not. Hardwood cuttings are taken from mature plants and propagated in the early spring or late winter. These cuttings are treated with rooting hormone and planted in well-drained potting soil or sand. The cuttings are then placed in a warm and bright place and kept moist until they root, which can take up to three weeks.
Air-Layering
Air-layering is a more advanced technique used for propagating Lannea velutina A.Rich. This method is suitable when a plant has a desirable branch that needs to be separated from the mother plant. A section of bark is removed from the chosen branch, and a rooting hormone is applied on the exposed area. The branch is then wrapped with moist sphagnum moss and covered with plastic wrap to facilitate rooting. Once roots have grown, the branch is separated and potted in well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Lannea velutina A.Rich.
Lannea velutina A.Rich. is a tree species that belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. This plant is native to Africa but can be found in other regions as well. When it comes to disease and pest management, preventive measures are critical for maintaining healthy plants. Proper plant care, such as regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning practices, can aid in preventing pest and disease problems. However, there are still some common diseases and pests that may affect Lannea velutina A.Rich. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests and how to manage them:
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, branches, and fruits of the tree, causing leaf drop and twig dieback. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts promptly. Fungicide sprays can also help control the spread of the disease.
Leaf rust: This disease causes rusty yellow or brown spots on the leaves and can lead to leaf drop. Regular pruning, watering at the base of the plant, and applying fungicides can help manage the disease.
Common Pests
Spider mites: These pests feed on the leaves of the plant, causing yellowish spots and webs on the foliage. They can be managed by spraying the plant with water to wash them off, or insecticidal soaps can be used to control them.
Mealybugs: These soft-bodied pests feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and wilting of the foliage. They can be managed by pruning infected plant parts, using beneficial insects like ladybugs, or applying insecticidal soaps.
Caterpillars: These pests can cause significant damage to the plant by chewing through the leaves. A physical barrier like netting can be used to keep them away, or insecticides can be applied to control their population.
Overall, preventive measures like proper plant care and regular inspections are crucial for disease and pest management for Lannea velutina A.Rich. Prompt action is also necessary once a plant shows signs of pest or disease infection to prevent further spread.
