Markhamia lanata K.Schum.
Markhamia lanata K.Schum. is a species of flowering tree in the family Bignoniaceae, native to eastern Africa. It is commonly known as the African tulip tree or the sausage tree due to its peculiar sausage-shaped fruit.
General Appearance
Markhamia lanata is a medium to large-sized tree, growing up to 25 meters tall. It has a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 60 cm, and a rounded crown. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oval-shaped, with a size of 8-20 cm in length and 5-12 cm in width. They are dark green in color and often pubescent on the undersides. The flowers are large, showy, and trumpet-shaped, with five petals fused to form a long tube. They are pink to red in color, and bloom from May to December.
Common Names
Markhamia lanata is commonly known by several different names depending on the region. In East Africa, it is known as the African tulip tree, while in West Africa it is called the sausage tree. In Tanzania, it is known as mkuyu, in Kenya as muvumu, and in Uganda as muvule.
Uses
The bark, leaves, and flowers of Markhamia lanata have various medicinal uses in traditional medicine. The bark is used to treat fever, malaria, and as a pain reliever. The leaves are used to treat coughs, colds, and respiratory infections. The flowers are used to treat skin infections and as a diuretic. In addition to its medicinal uses, the African tulip tree is also a source of timber, with the wood being used for furniture, carving, and construction.
Growth conditions for Markhamia lanata K.Schum
Markhamia lanata K.Schum. commonly known as the "dwarf sausage tree," belongs to the Bignoniaceae family. It is native to tropical Africa and is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree, growing up to 8-10 meters tall. This tree prefers semi-arid to sub-humid regions along watercourses, in bushlands, and in wooded grasslands.
Light requirements
Markhamia lanata K.Schum. requires a lot of sunlight. It prefers direct sunlight and grows well in open plantations or under conditions where it can receive full sunlight. Insufficient light may result in poor growth and a decrease in the number of flowers produced.
Temperature requirements
Markhamia lanata K.Schum. can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It prefers temperatures between 20-30°C, but it can also survive in temperatures of up to 38°C. It is not frost-tolerant, and during cold seasons, it may experience leaf drop and reduced growth rate.
Soil requirements
The dwarf sausage tree prefers well-drained soils with average to high fertility. It can grow in a wide range of soils, including loamy and clayey soils. Markhamia lanata K.Schum. is not tolerant to waterlogged soils, and this may cause root rot leading to the tree's death. The pH range of the soil should be between 5.5 and 7.5.
Cultivation of Markhamia lanata K.Schum.
Markhamia lanata K.Schum. is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid climates. It is best grown in areas that experience a rainfall of 1000-1500 mm annually.
The plant is propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in pots or seedbeds and placed in a shaded area. Germination occurs within 3-4 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location when they are strong enough.
Watering Needs
Markhamia lanata K.Schum. requires regular watering especially during dry spells. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged to avoid root rot. The frequency of watering should be reduced during rainy seasons to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Markhamia lanata K.Schum. requires regular fertilization to thrive. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10:10:10 is ideal for the plant. The fertilizer should be applied every three months during the growing season (spring and summer) to stimulate healthy growth.
Pruning
Pruning is important in maintaining the shape and size of Markhamia lanata K.Schum. The plant should be pruned annually in early spring just before the growing season. Dead, diseased, or damaged branches should be pruned to prevent the spread of infection to healthy branches.
The pruning process should also aim at removing overcrowded branches or those that grow in an undesirable direction. Ensure that the pruning tools are sterilized to avoid spreading diseases.
Propagation of Markhamia lanata K.Schum.
Markhamia lanata K.Schum. can be propagated by both vegetative and seed methods. The following are some of the propagation methods that can be used for this plant:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is an ideal method for propagating Markhamia lanata. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The germination time for the seeds can be up to two weeks, and the seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots as soon as they are large enough to handle. After around 6-8 months, the seedlings can be planted outside in suitable locations.
Cuttings Propagation
Markhamia lanata can also be propagated by cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from young, healthy plants and should be around 15-30 cm in length. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded, humid area until they have rooted, which can take up to six weeks. After that, they can be transplanted into individual pots and then planted outside in suitable locations.
Air-Layering Propagation
Air-layering is another propagation method that can be used for Markhamia lanata. In this method, a branch is selected and a ring of bark is removed from the stem. The wound is then covered with moist sphagnum moss and wrapped with plastic. After a few weeks, roots will form at the wound, and the branch can be cut off and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The newly rooted plant can be transplanted into individual pots and then planted outside in suitable locations.
Disease and Pest Management for Markhamia lanata K.Schum.
Markhamia lanata K.Schum. is a tree species native to tropical Africa and is commonly used for medicinal purposes, timber, and for its ornamental value. Like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can hinder its growth and overall health. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect Markhamia lanata K.Schum. and how to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot diseases are common in Markhamia lanata K.Schum. and are caused by fungal infections. Symptoms include brown or black spots on leaves, and in severe cases, leaves may fall off the tree. To manage leaf spot, it is important to keep the tree well-ventilated and to water it at the base. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Root Rot: Root rot is another fungal disease that affects Markhamia lanata K.Schum. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, it is important to ensure that the tree is not over-watered and has well-draining soil. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Pests
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are a common pest that affects Markhamia lanata K.Schum. They eat the leaves and can defoliate the tree if not managed properly. Handpicking caterpillars off the tree is a good way to manage this pest. Alternatively, insecticides can be used to control their population.
Mites: Mites are also a common pest that affects Markhamia lanata K.Schum. They feed on the leaves, causing them to become discolored and distorted. To manage mites, it is important to prune all affected leaves and to keep the tree well-watered. Insecticidal soaps can also be used to control their population.
By being vigilant and monitoring for symptoms of diseases and pests, Markhamia lanata K.Schum. can be kept healthy and thriving. It is important to follow these management practices and consult a professional if necessary.
