Markhamia lutea (Benth.) K. Schum. Overview
Markhamia lutea is a species of flowering plant in the Bignoniaceae family and is native to Africa, mainly found in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi. It is commonly known by various names such as "Yellow Bell," "Saiya," and "Hedgehog Tree."
Appearance
The plant can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 60 cm. It has a densely branched crown, and the bark is grayish-brown and roughly textured. The leaves are opposite, compound, and can reach up to 50 cm long and 25 cm broad. The flowers are yellow and bell-shaped, and the fruit is a long pod that can measure up to 40 cm.
Uses
The plant has several uses in traditional medicine, where different parts of the plant are used to treat various ailments, including malaria, pneumonia, and stomach problems. The bark is used to make a tonic that helps to relieve fever and general body weakness. The roots are used to relieve abdominal pain and to treat sexually transmitted diseases.
The plant's wood is useful in the construction of houses and furniture due to its robust nature. The stem bark and leaves have been utilized in Tanzania as a source of fiber for making ropes and baskets. The flowers' nectar serves as a food source for various bird species, and the fruit is edible and consumed by some animals.
With its decorative nature, the plant is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks worldwide, primarily due to its bright yellow flowers and attractive appearance.
Light Requirements
Markhamia lutea prefers bright, indirect sunlight. The plant can survive in partial shade, but it may affect the blooming and growth rate. In areas with high temperatures, it is best to avoid direct sunlight, which may scorch the leaves.
Temperature Preferences
Markhamia lutea grows well in warm and humid climates. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 21°C to 30°C. The plant can tolerate a minimum temperature of 15°C and a maximum temperature of 40°C. In colder regions, the plant grows as a tropical plant or a conservatory plant.
Soil Requirements
Markhamia lutea thrives in well-draining, rich, and fertile soil. The pH levels of the soil should range between 6.0 to 7.5. The plant prefers slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil. The soil should have adequate organic matter, nutrients, and moisture retention capacity. Avoid planting the tree in waterlogged or sandy soil, which may cause root rot and slow growth.
Cultivation methods
Markhamia lutea, also known as the yellow-bell, is a fast-growing tree that can reach up to 20 meters in height. It is native to tropical regions of Africa and requires warm temperatures to grow. The plant is typically propagated from seeds or cuttings, which should be planted in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
The ideal soil pH for Markhamia lutea is between 6.0 and 7.5. The tree prefers a sunny location but can tolerate partial shade. When planting, make sure to provide enough space between the trees to allow for proper growth and development.
Watering needs
Markhamia lutea requires regular watering during the growing season, especially in the first few years after planting. The tree should be watered deeply and frequently, especially during periods of drought. However, be cautious not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
During the winter months, reduce the frequency of watering to protect the tree from cold temperatures, and allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
Fertilization
Markhamia lutea requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and development. Apply a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 3-1-2 or 4-1-2 every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season. Avoid overfertilization, as this can lead to excessive growth and weak branches.
Pruning
To maintain the aesthetic appearance of Markhamia lutea, regular pruning is necessary. Prune the tree during the dormant season to remove dead or diseased branches, shape the plant, and promote new growth. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the tree's branches at once, as this can cause stress to the plant.
Propagation of Markhamia lutea (Benth.) K. Schum.
Markhamia lutea (Benth.) K. Schum., commonly known as the yellow bell or markings tree, is propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, and air-layering. The following are the propagation methods for Markhamia lutea:
Propagation through Seeds
Markhamia lutea can be propagated through seeds. The seeds should be collected when they are mature and ripe. The collected seeds should be dried, and the seed coat should be removed using sandpaper or a knife. The seeds should be soaked in water overnight before planting them. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil and watered regularly. The seeds take 2-3 weeks to germinate, and the seedlings should be transplanted to individual pots when they are big enough to handle. The young plants should be hardened off before planting them in the field.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Markhamia lutea can be propagated through stem cuttings. The stem cuttings should be taken from a healthy and disease-free plant during the dormant period. The stem cuttings should be 15-20 cm long and should have 2-3 nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the stem cutting should be treated with rooting hormone powder. The stem cutting should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a shaded area. The stem cutting should be watered regularly and misted to maintain high humidity. The stem cutting takes 4-6 weeks to root, and it should be transplanted to individual pots or the field when the roots are well-established.
Propagation through Air-Layering
Markhamia lutea can be propagated through air-layering. The air-layering should be done on a healthy and disease-free plant during the active growth period. A 15-20 cm stem should be selected, and a ring of bark should be removed from the stem where the roots will emerge. The ring should be treated with rooting hormone powder and wrapped with moist sphagnum moss. The wrapped area should be covered with a plastic bag to maintain high humidity. The air-layering takes 4-6 weeks to root, and the rooted plant should be transplanted to individual pots or the field when the roots are well-established.
Disease and Pest Management for Markhamia lutea (Benth.) K. Schum.
Markhamia lutea (Benth.) K. Schum., commonly known as the East African Greenheart, is a tropical tree species that belongs to the family of Bignoniaceae. As with other plants, Markhamia lutea is also vulnerable to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and lead to yield reductions. In this section, we will discuss some of the common diseases and pests that can affect this plant, and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases that Affect Markhamia lutea
One of the most common diseases that affect Markhamia lutea is leaf spot. This disease is usually caused by fungi, and can be identified by small brown or black spots that form on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune infected leaves and dispose of them correctly. Additionally, applying a fungicide can also be helpful.
Canker is another disease that can affect the tree. It is typically characterized by the formation of small, sunken lesions on the bark. To manage this disease, you can cut out and discard the infected areas and apply fungicides that are specific to canker.
Common Pests that Affect Markhamia lutea
Mealybugs are one of the common pests that affect Markhamia lutea. These pests feed on sap and can lead to stunted growth and leaf deformities. One way to handle mealybugs is to clean the affected area with water and soap, and then apply insecticides that are specifically designed to treat mealybugs.
Termites are another pest that can cause considerable damage to the trees. They feed on woody tissue and can weaken the tree's structural integrity. To control termite infestations, it is recommended to remove any damaged portions of the tree and apply insecticides to the soil around the tree's base.
Preventative Measures
Prevention is better than cure when it comes to managing plant diseases and pests. One easy way to prevent pests from infesting Markhamia lutea is to maintain the proper growing conditions and avoid over-fertilization. Over-fertilization can make the plant more susceptible to pests, so it is essential to follow the appropriate fertilization protocol.
Another way to prevent diseases and pests is to maintain good hygiene practices. This includes cleaning any fallen leaves, pruning correctly, and disposing of any infected plant parts adequately. Additionally, proper monitoring of the plant for pests and diseases can help manage any early signs of infestations before they become unmanageable.
In summary, disease and pest management is crucial in maintaining healthy Markhamia lutea growth. Adequate management requires early detection of diseases and pests and proper implementation of control methods.
