Overview
Lophira lanceolata Tiegh. ex Keay, also known as the African oak or azobé, is a tree species native to tropical Africa.
Common Names
The tree has various common names including azobé, bongossi, ekki and red ironwood.
Description
The Lophira lanceolata tree can grow up to 40 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 meters. The tree has a straight trunk and a rounded crown. Its bark is dark grey or black, deeply fissured and becomes rough with age.
The leaves of the tree are simple, alternate, and elliptical in shape and can grow up to 20 cm in length. The flowers are yellow-green in color and borne in panicles. The tree produces woody, ovoid fruits which contain winged seeds.
Uses
The wood of the Lophira lanceolata tree is known for its durability and strength. The tree is commonly used in building and construction due to its resistance to decay and termites. The wood is also used in heavy construction, bridge decking, and marine applications such as piers and wharves.
The bark of the tree is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, malaria, and headaches. In addition, the tree is used in landscaping and reforestation initiatives in tropical Africa due to its ability to adapt to a wide range of soil conditions.
Light Requirements
Lophira lanceolata Tiegh. ex Keay is a plant that requires full sun exposure for optimal growth. While it is capable of growing in partial shade, it thrives in areas that receive direct sunlight for at least six hours a day. As such, it is important to plant it in open areas that are not obstructed by trees or buildings.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to tropical West Africa and therefore requires warm temperatures to grow. The ideal temperature range for Lophira lanceolata Tiegh. ex Keay is between 25-35°C. It cannot tolerate temperatures below 15°C and may suffer from frost damage if exposed to freezing temperatures for extended periods of time.
Soil Requirements
Lophira lanceolata Tiegh. ex Keay grows best in well-draining, sandy or loamy soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. It does not thrive in waterlogged or compacted soils, which can lead to root rot and hinder growth. The plant also requires soil that is rich in organic matter and nitrogen to support healthy foliage and flower development.
Cultivation Methods for Lophira Lanceolata Tiegh. Ex Keay
Lophira lanceolata Tiegh. ex Keay, commonly known as the African Redwood or Ironwood, is a species of tree that is widely grown in tropical regions. If you want to cultivate Lophira lanceolata Tiegh. ex Keay, you should plant the seeds in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH of around 6 to 7.5. Moreover, the plant requires full sun to grow, so make sure that you place it in a location where it can get plenty of sunlight.
Watering Needs for Lophira Lanceolata Tiegh. Ex Keay
Lophira lanceolata Tiegh. ex Keay requires regular watering to grow and thrive. However, take care not to water too frequently or too much as the plant can be susceptible to root rot. It is recommended that you water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly before the next watering. During the dry season, you may need to water the plant more often to prevent it from drying out.
Fertilization for Lophira Lanceolata Tiegh. Ex Keay
To ensure that the plant grows well, you should fertilize it regularly. You can use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 or 15-15-15. Fertilize the plant every two months during the growing season, which is from early spring to fall. Be careful not to over-fertilize the plant as this can lead to excess foliage growth and may delay fruiting.
Pruning for Lophira Lanceolata Tiegh. Ex Keay
Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and shape of Lophira lanceolata Tiegh. ex Keay. Prune the tree during the dormant season, which is usually in early winter. You can remove any dead or diseased branches and shape the tree to promote healthy growth. Remove any suckers or shoots that emerge from the base of the plant, as they can compete with the main stem and reduce fruit production.
Propagation of Lophira lanceolata Tiegh. ex Keay
Lophira lanceolata Tiegh. ex Keay, also called African oak or iroko tree, is a large tree species found in tropical forests of the African continent. The propagation of L. lanceolata can be carried out by several methods, which include:
Seed Propagation
L. lanceolata can be propagated by seed. Freshly collected seeds are preferred, and they should be sown within one week of harvest. The seeds should be sterilized and sown in a well-drained soil mixture. Germination usually occurs within two to three weeks after sowing. The seedlings should be regularly watered and fertilized until they are ready for transplantation.
Cuttings Propagation
L. lanceolata can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Hardwood cuttings, taken from mature trees, are preferred. The cuttings should be prepared during the dormancy period and should be treated with rooting hormones before planting. The cuttings should be planted in well-drained soil and kept moist until they root, which usually takes about three months. The rooted cuttings should then be transplanted into individual pots to grow before being planted out into the field.
Air Layering Propagation
Another method of propagation for L. lanceolata is air layering. This method involves creating a wound on the stem of the tree and applying rooting hormone to the wound area. A plastic bag is then placed over the treated area, and it is kept moist until roots develop. When the roots have formed, the stem is cut below the rooted area, and it is transplanted into a pot or the field.
In conclusion, L. lanceolata can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings, and air layering. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the selection of the method depends on the resources available and the objectives of the propagation process.
Disease Management
Lophira lanceolata is susceptible to various diseases that might weaken or kill the plant if not treated properly. Some of the common diseases include:
- Leaf spots: These are the small, dark, and frequently circular lesions that appear on the leaves of the plant. They can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses, and can cause defoliation if severe.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi, and it affects the roots of the plant, leading to stunted growth, wilting, and eventually death in severe cases.
- Powdery mildew: This disease is characterized by a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It is caused by fungi and can affect the photosynthesis process if not controlled in time.
To manage these diseases, it is important to have a regular plant inspection program to identify symptoms early on. Additionally, one can practice the following disease management strategies:
- Pruning and disposing of symptomatic shoots and leaves
- Proper sanitation practices to prevent the spread of diseases
- Proper spacing of plants for better air circulation
- Use of fungicides and bactericides, as well as resistant cultivars
Pest Management
Lophira lanceolata can also be attacked by various insect pests, leading to reduced vigor or death of the plant. Some of the common pests that might affect this plant include:
- Caterpillars: These are the larvae of butterflies or moths that feed on the leaves and may lead to defoliation if not controlled.
- Mites: These are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant, and they may cause wilting, curling and yellowing of the leaves.
- Mealybugs: These insects infest the plant and cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and wilting.
To manage these pests, one can practice the following techniques:
- Handpicking and squashing insects when present in small numbers
- Use of insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils
- Healthy plant practices such as watering and fertilizing adequately to promote vigor and resistance
- Biological control methods such as the introduction of natural predators of pests such as ladybugs to reduce pest numbers
