Markhamia tomentosa (Benth.) K.Schum. ex Engl. var. gracilis Sprague
Markhamia tomentosa is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Bignoniaceae. It is commonly known as the "sausage tree" or the "umbrella tree". This tree species is native to tropical East Africa, including countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Appearance
The Markhamia tomentosa is a large deciduous tree that can reach up to a height of 20-25 meters. It has a straight trunk that is grayish-brown in color with a diameter of 50-60 cm. The bark of the tree is smooth and exfoliates in patches. The leaves are dark green, oval-shaped, and can grow up to 25 cm long and 12 cm wide. The flowers are large and are arranged in a terminal, pyramid-shaped panicle that can be up to 40 cm long. The fruit of the tree is a long, narrow seedpod that can grow up to 60 cm in length and 3 cm in diameter.
Uses
The Markhamia tomentosa tree has several uses, both medicinal and non-medicinal. The bark, roots, and leaves of the tree are used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments such as malaria, fever, and diarrhea. The tree is also known for its ornamental qualities, with its attractive flowers and fruit that make it a popular choice for landscaping and gardening. The wood of the tree is used in construction, such as for making furniture, poles, and boats.
In addition to its medicinal and ornamental value, the Markhamia tomentosa tree is also valued for its ecological significance. The tree is an important food source for a variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, and monkeys. The large seedpods of the tree are also eaten by humans and are used to make a variety of food products such as flour and porridge.
Typical Growth Conditions for Markhamia tomentosa var. gracilis Sprague
Light: Markhamia tomentosa var. gracilis Sprague requires abundant sunlight for optimal growth and development. It is best grown in areas that receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. However, young plants should be protected from harsh afternoon sun during the first few months of growth.
Temperature: This plant thrives in warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature for optimal growth is between 20-30°C. It can tolerate brief dips in temperature but prolonged exposure to colder climates can be damaging to its growth. Frost should be avoided at all costs and this plant is not suited for areas with freezing temperatures.
Soil: The soil should be fertile and well-draining, with a pH between 6.0-7.5. Sandy loam, loamy sand, or red lateritic soils with adequate moisture and nutrient content are suitable for Markhamia tomentosa var. gracilis Sprague. The addition of organic matter, such as compost or manure, can improve the soil's fertility and moisture retention capacity.
Water: This plant requires regular watering during the growing season. A deeply rooted plant does not depend on paper application of water. During the rainy season, plants are usually able to take up enough moisture without the need for watering. In areas with dry seasons, regular watering should be carried out to ensure the plant's growth is optimal. During the dry season, watering frequency should be reduced to avoid root rot.
Cultivation Methods
The Markhamia tomentosa (Benth.) K.Schum. ex Engl. var. gracilis Sprague is a medium-sized tree that grows best in tropical and subtropical climates. It requires a well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients and organic matter. The plant prefers to grow in a location that receives full sunlight, but it can also survive in partial shade.
The best time to plant a Markhamia tomentosa (Benth.) K.Schum. ex Engl. var. gracilis Sprague tree is during the rainy season when the soil is moist and the temperature is warm. Before planting, it is important to dig a hole that is twice the size of the root ball and fill it with soil that has been mixed with compost and organic matter.
Watering Needs
The Markhamia tomentosa (Benth.) K.Schum. ex Engl. var. gracilis Sprague tree requires regular watering to maintain its growth and health. It prefers a consistently moist soil, but overwatering can cause root rot. The frequency of watering depends on the climate and soil type, but as a general rule of thumb, the plant should receive water once or twice a week. During the dry season, the tree may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Markhamia tomentosa (Benth.) K.Schum. ex Engl. var. gracilis Sprague tree requires regular fertilization to maintain its foliage and flowers. A slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and phosphorus should be applied every 6 to 8 weeks during the growing season. Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure can also be applied to the soil to improve its fertility.
Pruning
Pruning is an important practice that should be done regularly to maintain the health and shape of the Markhamia tomentosa (Benth.) K.Schum. ex Engl. var. gracilis Sprague tree. This tree requires pruning to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Pruning should be done during the dry season to avoid fungal infections. The best way to prune a Markhamia tomentosa (Benth.) K.Schum. ex Engl. var. gracilis Sprague tree is to use clean, sharp pruning tools to make clean cuts.
Propagation of Markhamia tomentosa var. gracilis
Markhamia tomentosa var. gracilis, commonly known as the "pink shower" tree, can be propagated through several methods, including:
Seeds
The primary method of propagation for Markhamia tomentosa var. gracilis is through seeds. The seeds should be collected from the mature pods during the dry season. The seeds should be cleaned, soaked in water for a few hours, and sown in nursery beds filled with fertile soil. The planting bed should be watered regularly until the seeds germinate, and the seedlings should be transplanted to individual pots once they reach a specific height and thickness.
Cuttings
Markhamia tomentosa var. gracilis can also be propagated through cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from the middle portion of the stem and should have a diameter of 1-2 cm, and length of 20-30 cm. The lowermost leaves should be removed, and the surface should be treated with a rooting hormone before planting into a suitable rooting medium.
Air Layering
Air layering can also be used to propagate Markhamia tomentosa var. gracilis. A small portion of bark is removed from the middle section of the stem, and a suitable rooting medium is packed around the wounded section. The area should be watered regularly to keep the medium moist. Once roots have developed, the stem can be severed from the mother plant and transplanted into a separate container.
Regardless of the method used, it is essential to ensure that the propagation environment is optimal for the plant's growth and development.
Disease and Pest Management for Markhamia tomentosa var. gracilis
Markhamia tomentosa var. gracilis Sprague, commonly known as the East African camphor tree, is a resilient plant species that can grow up to 10 meters tall. However, like any other living organism, the plant can be affected by diseases and pests that can hinder its growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them.
DISEASES
Leaf spot disease: Leaf spot disease is the most common disease that affects the East African camphor tree. It is caused by a fungus that attacks the leaves, causing them to show small brown spots which enlarge over time. An effective way of managing this disease is by removing affected leaves as soon as they appear and destroying them. Using a fungicide can also be useful, but it should be used only as a last resort and under the guidance of an expert.
Root rot: Root rot is another common disease that affects Markhamia tomentosa var. gracilis. It is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant, causing it to wilt and ultimately die. To prevent root rot, it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged. An infected plant should be removed and destroyed as soon as it is identified.
PESTS
Scale insects: Scale insects are common pests that can affect the East African camphor tree. They attach themselves to the branches and stems of the plant, causing them to wither and die. An effective way of controlling these pests is by using a systemic insecticide which is specially formulated for scale insects.
Aphids: Aphids are another common pest that can cause damage to the East African camphor tree. They feed on sap and cause the leaves to yellow and eventually drop. Controlling aphids can be done through natural methods such as introducing aphid predators like ladybugs into the environment. Alternatively, insecticidal soaps can be used to get rid of the pests.
By following these suggestions, it is possible to prevent and manage the spread of diseases and pests that can affect Markhamia tomentosa var. gracilis, and keep this plant thriving for years to come.
