Overview:
Markhamia puberula (Klotzsch) K.Schum. is a species of flowering plant in the family Bignoniaceae, native to Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda in east Africa.
Common names:
Markhamia puberula is commonly known as "pink marula" or "giant pink shower".
Appearance:
Markhamia puberula is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall. The bark is grey and smooth, with white patches that become more prominent as the tree ages. The leaves are ovate or elliptical-shaped, measuring 12-20 cm long and 6-12 cm wide. The tree produces large clusters of pink flowers that are 5 cm long, in the shape of a trumpet. The fruit is a long, slender pod that measures up to 35 cm long and 3 cm wide, containing numerous small seeds.
Uses:
The bark, roots, and leaves of Markhamia puberula have been used in traditional medicine for a variety of purposes, including treating malaria, fever, and intestinal parasites. The wood of the tree is used for construction and furniture making, while the fruit is sometimes used as a vegetable or animal feed. In addition, Markhamia puberula is cultivated as an ornamental tree for its attractive flowers.
Growth Conditions of Markhamia puberula
Markhamia puberula, also known as the African tulip tree, is a tropical plant commonly found in the East African region. The tree typically grows up to 25 meters tall and has a straight trunk that can reach a diameter of up to 1 meter
Light Requirements
The African tulip tree requires full sun to grow to its full potential. The tree grows best when exposed to direct sunlight for at least six hours daily. It's, therefore, important to ensure that the tree is not planted under shade or another tree that may obstruct the sun's rays.
Temperature Requirements
The African tulip tree can only grow in tropical and subtropical regions where the temperatures are warm throughout the year. The tree thrives in temperatures ranging from 20 to 35 degrees Celsius and needs a minimum temperature of 15 degrees Celcius.
Soil requirements
The tree grows well in a variety of soils, including clay soil and loam soil, provided they are well-draining. The African tulip tree grows best in soil with a pH ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The tree is sensitive to saline soil and cannot thrive in areas with high salt content.
Cultivation Methods
Markhamia puberula is a fast-growing plant that can reach heights of up to 15 meters. It is relatively easy to cultivate and grows well in tropical climates. The ideal location for this plant is a warm and sunny spot with well-draining soil.
The plant can be grown from seeds or cuttings. If growing from seeds, soak them in water for 24 hours before planting. For cuttings, select a healthy stem and cut it into sections about 15-20cm long. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and plant it in a pot with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, sunny spot.
Watering Needs
Markhamia puberula requires regular watering to thrive. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as this can cause root rot. Watering should be done when the topsoil feels dry to the touch, usually every 2-3 days. During hot and dry weather conditions, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Fertilization is an important aspect of caring for Markhamia puberula. The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) once every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months as this is its rest period.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of Markhamia puberula. Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and trim the tips of the remaining branches to encourage bushier growth. The plant can also be pruned to shape or control its size, but avoid pruning more than a third of the plant in one go.
Propagation of Markhamia puberula
Markhamia puberula (Klotzsch) K.Schum. is commonly known as the African tulip tree, and it is a beautiful tree that is native to tropical Africa. In its natural environment, this plant propagates through seeds, but there are also other propagation methods that one can use to multiply it.
Propagation Methods
Seeds: Propagation of Markhamia puberula can be done through seeds, which can either be collected from the tree itself or purchased in various nurseries. After collecting the seeds, they should be treated with hot water to soften the seed coat and allow it to germinate quickly. It is important to note that the germination rate of Markhamia puberula seeds is low, and therefore, one should plant more seeds than necessary.
Stem Cuttings: Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Markhamia puberula. Take cuttings from the tips of branches that are not woody, with at least two leaves. Remove the leaves on the lower one-third of the stem and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone powder. Place the stem cutting in a potting mix and keep it moist. The cutting should form roots and develop new leaves in about a month.
Air Layering: Air layering is another propagation method that can be used to multiply Markhamia puberula. This method entails wounding a part of the branch and encouraging it to develop roots while still attached to the parent plant. Select a branch that is mature enough to have a woody stem, and make two parallel cuts one inch apart around the branch, with one of the cuts being at least one inch long. Peel off the bark between the cuts to expose the innermost part of the woody stem. Apply rooting hormone, wrap the wound with moist sphagnum moss, and secure it in place with plastic wrap or a rubber band. Roots should form within a few weeks, and it can then be detached from the parent plant and transplanted into a pot.
With these simple propagation methods, it is easy to multiply Markhamia puberula and enjoy this stunning plant as part of your garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Markhamia puberula
Markhamia puberula, commonly known as the African tulip tree, is a fast-growing tree that is native to tropical Africa. Although it is a hardy tree, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can cause damage to the plant.
Common Diseases
The African tulip tree is susceptible to several diseases, including leaf spot, root rot, and powdery mildew. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, dark brown spots to appear on the leaves. Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots, causing them to become soft, dark, and mushy. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating to appear on the leaves.
To manage these diseases, it is important to ensure that the tree is planted in well-draining soil. Watering should be done sparingly to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to the development of root rot. Fungicides can also be applied to the leaves and roots of the tree to prevent the spread of disease.
Common Pests
The African tulip tree is also vulnerable to several pests, including mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Mealybugs are small, white insects that feed on the sap of the tree, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. Scale insects are small, flat insects that attach themselves to the leaves and suck out the sap, causing yellowing and wilting. Spider mites are tiny insects that spin webs on the leaves, causing them to dry out and turn yellow.
To manage these pests, it is important to inspect the tree regularly for signs of infestation. Insecticides can be applied to the tree to control the population of pests, or, for a more natural approach, a mixture of soap and water can be sprayed on the leaves to kill the insects. Pruning can also be done to remove infected branches and prevent the spread of pests.
By managing diseases and pests effectively, the African tulip tree can thrive and provide the many benefits of its beautiful flowers and shade.
