Macrolobium chevalieri Harms: A Description of the Plant
Macrolobium chevalieri Harms, also known as African rosewood, is a species of legume tree that is native to West and Central Africa. It is commonly found in countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, Nigeria, and Congo. The plant grows in tropical rainforests, riparian forests, and gallery forests, typically between altitudes of 50-1,300 meters above sea level.
Common Names
The plant has various common names across its native range, including "mukula" in Zambia, "azobe" in Cameroon, "boku" in Nigeria, and "ekki" in Ghana. The name "African rosewood" refers to the timber of the tree, which is often used as a substitute for rosewood due to its similar appearance and properties.
Uses
Macrolobium chevalieri Harms has several uses. The most notable is its timber, which is valued for its durability, strength, and resistance to water. The wood is commonly used for constructing buildings, bridges, and railway sleepers. It is also used for making furniture, flooring, and decorative veneers. In addition to its commercial value, the plant has medicinal properties. The bark and roots of the plant are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as fever, cough, and diarrhea. Furthermore, the plant is used for soil improvement in agroforestry systems, and its leaves serve as fodder for livestock.
General Appearance
Macrolobium chevalieri Harms is a large tree that can grow up to 50 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 2 meters. The tree has a straight, cylindrical trunk that is typically free of branches up to a height of 30 meters. The bark is dark grey to blackish-brown, with deep fissures and ridges. The leaves are pinnate, with 6-12 pairs of leaflets that are leathery and glossy. The flowers are small and yellowish-white, arranged in dense clusters. The fruit is a flat, woody pod that contains several seeds. The wood of the plant is dark brown to reddish-brown, with a fine and even texture.
Light Requirements
Macrolobium chevalieri Harms typically grows well in shaded areas with filtered sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade but does not do well in direct sunlight. It is recommended to place the plant in an area that receives bright, indirect light for optimum growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperature variations. However, it grows best in temperatures ranging from 20-30°C. It cannot tolerate freezing temperatures or extreme heat and may die if exposed to such conditions for extended periods. It is recommended to keep the plant in a controlled environment with moderate temperatures to ensure healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
Macrolobium chevalieri Harms prefers well-drained soil with a pH ranging from 5.5-7.5. It grows best in soil that is rich in organic matter and can retain moisture without becoming waterlogged. The soil should be porous and airy to allow for proper root growth. Adding a layer of mulch around the plant can help maintain soil moisture and discourage weed growth.
Cultivation Methods
Macrolobium chevalieri Harms is a plant native to tropical regions, and it grows well in warm and humid conditions. It can be cultivated in both soil and potting media. When cultivating in soil, it is important to ensure the soil is well-draining and has a pH between 5.5 to 7.
If cultivating in a pot, ensure that the container is deep enough, as this plant has a deep root system. It is recommended to use a quality potting mix that is rich in organic matter. Make sure to keep the plant in an area with good sunlight but avoid direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day.
Watering Needs
Macrolobium chevalieri Harms requires moderate watering as overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. Watering should be done when the soil is dry to the touch, but not bone dry. Water the plant deeply and let the excess water drain out of the bottom of the pot or through the soil. It is important to avoid letting water sit in the saucer or tray beneath the pot, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Macrolobium chevalieri Harms requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 5-5-5 or 10-10-10 should be applied every two weeks during the growing season. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application and dosage. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when growth slows down.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the overall shape and size of Macrolobium chevalieri Harms. It is best to prune in the spring after new growth has emerged. Cut back any dead or damaged branches or stems, and remove any crossing branches or those that are growing in the wrong direction.
It is also possible to prune to control the plant's height and width. Cut back the tips of branches to encourage new growth and bushiness. Be careful not to prune too much as this can lead to stress on the plant, and it may take time to recover.
Propagation of Macrolobium chevalieri Harms
Macrolobium chevalieri Harms is a tree that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to tropical Africa. The propagation of this plant is mainly done using the seeds and stem cuttings. The following are the propagation methods for Macrolobium chevalieri Harms:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate Macrolobium chevalieri Harms. To get the seeds, harvest the dry pods and remove them from the tree. The pods should be left to dry in the shade for about one week. After drying, the seeds should be taken out and cleaned.
The cleaned seeds can be planted in a nursery bed filled with a mixture of sand and compost. Make small holes approximately 2 cm deep and space them about 10-15 cm apart. Place one seed in each hole and cover with soil. Water the seeds gently with a watering can or mist spray. Keep the soil moist until germination occurs, which can take up to two weeks.
Stem cutting propagation
Stem cutting propagation is a simple method that can be used to propagate Macrolobium chevalieri Harms. The cuttings should be taken from the current year's growth, and the stem should be about 15-20 cm long and 0.5-1.5 cm in diameter. Make a clean cut at the base of the stem and remove any leaves from the bottom 2/3 of the stem.
Place the cutting in a well-drained, moist rooting medium. A mixture of river sand and compost can be used. Place the container in a shaded area and cover with a plastic bag to retain humidity. Ensure that the medium remains moist but not waterlogged.
The cuttings should start producing roots in about two to three weeks. After that, the plant can be transplanted into a larger container or directly into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management of Macrolobium chevalieri Harms
Macobolium chevalieri, also known as African tulip tree, is a popular ornamental plant with beautiful red and yellow flowers. Proper care and management techniques are necessary to maintain its healthy growth and development. In this article, we will discuss some common diseases and pests that affect Macrolobium chevalieri and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown to black spots on leaves and twigs. The infected leaves eventually fall off, leading to stunted growth. To manage this disease, prune the affected branches and leaves and dispose of them properly. Also, avoid overhead watering and apply a fungicide to protect the plant.
2. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that forms a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems. Infected leaves may also turn yellow and wilt. To manage this disease, remove the infected plant parts and increase air circulation around the plant by spacing them out. Also, spray a fungicide to protect new growth.
Common Pests
1. Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that suck sap from the leaves and stems. Infested leaves may turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage this pest, prune the affected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Also, apply a horticultural oil to the plant to kill the scales.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are soft, white insects that also feed on plant sap. They secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and can cause sooty mold. To manage this pest, remove the affected plant parts and spray the plant with water to dislodge the insects. Also, apply a systemic insecticide to protect the plant from future infestations.
By following proper care and management techniques and identifying and managing these common diseases and pests, you can ensure the healthy growth of Macrolobium chevalieri Harms.
