Overview
Loranthus brunneus Engl. var. thonneri (Engl.) Sprague, also known as African mistletoe, is a parasitic plant that belongs to the laurel family (Lauraceae). It is commonly found in East Africa, specifically in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda. African mistletoe is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Appearance
African mistletoe is a small, evergreen, woody shrub that grows up to 1m tall. It has thick stems that produce oblong or elliptic leaves that are up to 5cm long. The leaves are glossy green on the upper surface and pale green on the lower surface. African mistletoe produces small, yellowish-green flowers that are arranged in dense clusters. The flowers bloom from December to March and are followed by small, berry-like fruits that are green when young and turn yellow when ripe.
Common Names
African mistletoe has several common names, including Lendankarain Tanzania and Ol-seurumei in Kenya. It is also known as Englerina thonneri, Loranthus thonneri, and Viscum brunneum.
Uses
African mistletoe is widely used in traditional medicine in East Africa to treat various ailments such as diabetes, hypertension, infertility, and rheumatism. The plant is also known to have antitumor properties. The leaves and stems of the plant are boiled and used to make a tea or decoction that is taken orally. African mistletoe is also used as a decorative plant and is used in Christmas wreaths and other floral arrangements.
Light Requirements
Loranthus brunneus Engl. var. thonneri (Engl.) Sprague grows best under partial or full sunlight conditions. It requires at least 3-4 hours of direct sunlight exposure per day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Loranthus brunneus Engl. var. thonneri (Engl.) Sprague growth is between 20-25°C (68-77°F). It can tolerate low temperatures down to 10°C (50°F) during the winter months, but should be protected from frost and extreme heat.
Soil Requirements
Loranthus brunneus Engl. var. thonneri (Engl.) Sprague prefers well-drained, fertile soils, including sandy or loamy soils. It can tolerate slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH ranging from 6-7.5. It is also important to ensure adequate moisture but not waterlogging the soil.
Cultivation Methods
Loranthus brunneus Engl. var. thonneri (Engl.) Sprague, commonly known as African mistletoe, is a parasitic plant that grows on the branches of trees. If you plan to cultivate this plant, you need to consider locating it on the right host, as it depends on other plants for survival. Ensure that the host tree is at least as tall as the African mistletoe to provide adequate sunlight. You can also propagate African mistletoe by attaching its seeds onto the branches of the host tree.
Watering Needs
African mistletoe requires moderate watering. The plant can survive in arid regions with little rainfall. However, avoid overwatering it as this could lead to rotting of the host tree's branches. You can check the moisture content of the soil by inserting a finger about two inches deep into the soil. Water the plant only when the soil feels dry to touch.
Fertilization
Since African mistletoe is a parasitic plant, it derives its nutrients from the host tree. However, you can supplement the soil with a slow-release fertilizer to enhance the growth of the host tree. Use a fertilizer low in phosphorus and high in nitrogen as excessive phosphorus levels could harm the African mistletoe.
Pruning
Pruning African mistletoe involves cutting the infected branches of the host tree. The plant forms a weak connection with the tree, hence prone to fall during strong winds. Prune the plant if it's causing structural damage to the host tree or poses a danger to people or property around the garden. Use sterilized tools to avoid infecting the tree with diseases.
Propagation of Loranthus brunneus Engl. var. thonneri (Engl.) Sprague
Propagation of Loranthus brunneus Engl. var. thonneri (Engl.) Sprague can be done through the following methods:
Semi-hardwood cuttings
Semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken from the current season's growth. The cuttings should be around 15-20 cm long and should have 2-3 nodes. The leaves on the lower nodes should be removed, and the base of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings should then be placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a cool, shaded area. The cuttings should be watered regularly and should develop roots in about 4-6 weeks.
Air layering
Air layering is another method that can be used to propagate Loranthus brunneus Engl. var. thonneri (Engl.) Sprague. Choose a healthy stem and make a small cut just below a node. Apply rooting hormone to the cut and wrap damp sphagnum moss around the cut. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it in place. After a few weeks, roots should start to grow into the moss. Once the roots are well-developed, the stem can be cut off and planted in a pot or directly in the ground.
Division
Division is another method that can be used to propagate Loranthus brunneus Engl. var. thonneri (Engl.) Sprague, but it is not recommended as it can damage the plant. If you choose to propagate through division, gently dig up the plant and carefully separate the stems. Each stem should have some roots attached. Replant the divided stems in a well-draining soil mix and water them regularly.
Disease Management
Loranthus brunneus Engl. var. thonneri (Engl.) Sprague is susceptible to a few diseases that can affect its growth. These diseases can be managed through various control measures. The following are some common diseases that affect the plant:
Leaf Spot Disease
Leaf spot disease is a fungal infection that causes dark spots on the plant's leaves. The spots can grow bigger and coalesce, leading to defoliation. To control this disease, it's essential to prune off the infected parts and apply fungicides to the healthy parts. It's also recommended to avoid overhead irrigation, which can contribute to the spread of the disease.
Root Rot Disease
Root rot is caused by fungi that infect the plant's roots, leading to wilting and decay of the root system. To prevent this disease, avoid planting the Loranthus brunneus Engl. var. thonneri (Engl.) Sprague plant in poorly drained soils. You can also apply fungicides to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Other than diseases, Loranthus brunneus Engl. var. thonneri (Engl.) Sprague can also be infested by pests that can damage the plant. Effective pest management practices can help control the pests. The following are some common pests that might affect the plant:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, leading to leaf curling and stunted growth. To control aphids, it's recommended to apply insecticides, prune off the infected parts, and use biological control methods like ladybugs, which feed on the insects.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that infest the plant's leaves, causing leaves to turn yellow and fall off. You can control spider mites by applying miticides, pruning off the infected parts, and washing the leaves with water to dislodge the pests.
Applying good cultural practices, such as proper irrigation, regular fertilization, and pruning, can also help manage both pests and diseases. It's also important to monitor the plant closely to detect any infestations early, as early interventions are more effective in controlling the pests and diseases.
