Overview
Markhamia stenocarpa (Welw. ex Seem.) K.Schum. is a tropical tree native to Africa. It belongs to the family of Bignoniaceae and is well-known for its medicinal properties.
Common Names
Markhamia stenocarpa is known by a variety of common names, including Tabora, Thovo, Uchungwe, and Windmill tree.
Appearance
The tree can grow up to a height of 30 meters and has a straight trunk that is free of branches for the first 10-12 meters. The tree's bark is smooth and greenish-grey in color. It has leaves that are simple, alternate, and elongated, with a length of up to 40 centimeters and a width of 12 centimeters. The flowers are bell-shaped, about 4 centimeters long, and typically grow in clusters at the end of the branches.
Uses
Markhamia stenocarpa is highly valued for its various medicinal properties. The bark, leaves, and roots of the tree are used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments such as malaria, fever, diarrhea, and stomach complaints. The tree also possesses antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a useful herb for the treatment of infections and inflammation. Additionally, the wood of the tree is used for carving, furniture making, and construction due to its durability and strength.
Light Requirements
Markhamia stenocarpa is known to thrive in full sun to partial shade conditions. Therefore, it is recommended to grow the plant in areas that receive a minimum of four hours of direct sunlight per day. This will facilitate better photosynthesis and optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
Markhamia stenocarpa is native to tropical regions of Africa. Thus, it requires warm temperatures for optimal growth. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 20°C to 35°C. Temperatures below 10°C should be avoided as they can cause damage to the leaves and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
Markhamia stenocarpa thrives in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant requires soil rich in organic matter, nutrients, and sufficient water. Sandy loamy soils with good fertility levels are ideal for growing this plant. Avoid water-logged or poorly drained soils as they can cause root rot.
Cultivation methods
Markhamia stenocarpa is a tropical tree that thrives best in areas with warm temperatures and abundant rainfall. The plant prefers well-drained soils rich in organic matter. It can grow in both acidic and alkaline soils but performs better in slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 - 6.5. It is important to avoid waterlogged soils as it may lead to root rot.
Watering needs
Markhamia stenocarpa requires sufficient water to grow and remain healthy. The plant should be irrigated regularly, especially during the dry season. It is recommended to water the plants deeply to encourage deep root growth. However, the plant cannot tolerate waterlogging as it may lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure proper drainage systems are in place.
Fertilization
The plant requires proper nutrition to grow and produce healthy flowers. The soil should be enriched with organic matter such as manure and compost. Fertilizer application should be done during the plant's active growth period, which is typically during the rainy season. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium-based fertilizers should be applied in the ratio of 3:1:1, respectively.
Pruning
Pruning Markhamia stenocarpa is essential to shape the plant and promote bushier growth. The best time to prune the plant is during the dormant season, which is usually after the flowering period. Diseased, damaged, or dead branches should be removed any time they are detected. It is also essential to remove any branches that grow too close to the ground to improve air circulation and prevent pests and diseases.
Propagation of Markhamia stenocarpa
Markhamia stenocarpa, also known as the Maroon-bell, is a popular tropical tree species that belongs to the family Bignoniaceae. Propagation of this plant species can be done through various methods.
Seed Propagation
Markhamia stenocarpa can be propagated through seeds. The seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place until the planting season. Propagation by seed provides a reliable way to produce new trees that retain the genetic characteristics of the parent tree. However, seed propagation can be slow and takes time to produce a viable plant.
Cuttings
Propagation of Markhamia stenocarpa can be done through hardwood cuttings. The best season to take cuttings is in the late spring or summer when the plant is growing vigorously. The cuttings should be approximately 20-30cm long and 1-2cm in diameter and must be treated with rooting hormones to speed up the rooting process.
Air-layering
Air-layering is another method of propagating Markhamia stenocarpa. This method involves making a cut in the bark of a branch and applying rooting hormone to the area. Then, the cut area is wrapped in moist sphagnum moss and covered with plastic wrap until roots develop. The rooted section can then be removed from the parent plant and transplanted.
Grafting
Grafting is another method of propagating Markhamia stenocarpa. In this method, the scion is cut from the desired parent plant and grafted onto a rootstock. Grafting allows the tree to be grown with improved disease resistance, but it requires skilled techniques and experience.
In conclusion, Markhamia stenocarpa can be propagated through various means: seed propagation, cuttings, air-layering, and grafting. Choose the method that will best suit the situation, and always take care of the plant during and after propagation to ensure its successful establishment.
Disease and Pest Management for Markhamia stenocarpa (Welw. ex Seem.) K.Schum.
Markhamia stenocarpa is a tropical tree that is known for its medicinal properties, timber, and ornamental value. Despite its many benefits, the plant is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can affect its growth and overall health. Effective disease and pest management strategies are necessary to protect the plant from the following common diseases and pests:
Diseases
Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, flowers, and fruits of Markhamia stenocarpa. Symptoms include irregularly shaped brown spots on the leaves, which may have a yellow halo. Affected flowers may also exhibit brown spots, which can cause premature drop. Control measures include pruning infected parts, ensuring proper plant spacing, and applying fungicides.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungi that cause the plant's roots to rot, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To prevent root rot, it is recommended to avoid waterlogging the soil and to provide adequate drainage. If the plant is already infected, proper irrigation, mulching, and the application of fungicides can help manage the disease.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small sap-sucking insects that attach themselves to the plant's leaves, flowers, and stems, and cause the plant to weaken and wilt. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that eat the plant's leaves, causing defoliation. To control caterpillars, handpicking, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), or neem oil can be used.
Scales: Scales are small, shell-like insects that attach themselves to the plant's stems and leaves and cause yellowing and wilting. They can be controlled by pruning infected parts and using horticultural oil, neem oil, or insecticidal soap.
Overall, prevention is the best strategy for disease and pest management. This involves planting healthy seedlings, providing adequate water, and fertilizer, and maintaining good plant hygiene. Early detection and prompt management of diseases and pests can help reduce damage to the plant and ensure optimal growth and productivity.
