Maytenus obbadiensis (Chiov.) Cufod.
Maytenus obbadiensis, commonly known as Chiovenda, is a small tree that belongs to the family Celastraceae. It is native to the Obbia region of Somalia and is commonly found in the coastal areas of Kenya and Tanzania.
General Appearance
The plant has a distinct appearance, with a small and roundish crown, long, thin hairless branches, and leaves that are oval or elliptical in shape. The leaves are dark green in color, have a glossy appearance, and grow to be about 4-8 cm in length. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are pale green or yellow in color and clustered in small groups at the base of the leaves. The fruit is a small capsule with a red or orange color that contains small, black seeds.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Chiovenda in Somalia. In Kenya, it is known as Mweru or Magumbo, while in Tanzania, it is referred to as Mtandamia or Mgumbili.
Uses
The bark and leaves of Maytenus obbadiensis have been used traditionally by indigenous communities for various medicinal purposes. In particular, it is believed to have antimicrobial properties and is used to treat various ailments such as stomach ulcers, venereal diseases, and snakebites. Additionally, the tree is used as a shade tree and a source of firewood due to its hard and durable wood.
Maytenus obbadiensis is also used in landscaping due to its attractive appearance, and it is well-suited for use in coastal gardens and parks. The plant is drought-tolerant, and its low maintenance requirements make it an ideal choice for landscaping in hot, dry climates.
Light Requirements
Maytenus obbadiensis typically grows in areas with full sun exposure or partially shaded conditions. It can tolerate both direct and indirect sunlight. However, in regions with extremely hot climates, it thrives more under partially shaded conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Maytenus obbadiensis occurs naturally in areas with an average temperature range of 20-30 °C. It is known to tolerate temperatures as low as 15°C without any severe damage to its growth. High temperatures of 35 °C and above might cause wilting and leaf drop, which affects the plant's vigor.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Maytenus obbadiensis growth is a well-draining, sandy loam soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clayey soils, as long as the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged. Adding organic matter, such as compost, to the soil helps improve fertility and loosen the soil structure, making it easier for the roots to penetrate deeper.
Cultivation Methods
Maytenus obbadiensis is a woody plant that grows well in well-drained soils with full to partial sunlight. It can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or air-layering. For seeds, the planting depth should be shallow, and the site should be kept moist until germination.
Watering Needs
Maytenus obbadiensis has moderate water needs. It prefers evenly moist soil, and the site must not be allowed to dry out between waterings. Overwatering should be avoided, as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Maytenus obbadiensis can be fertilized during the growing season to improve growth. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied to the soil, or a water-soluble fertilizer can be added to the water during watering. The frequency of fertilization should be according to the package instructions.
Pruning
Maytenus obbadiensis can be pruned to maintain its shape, promote bushy growth, and remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. It is advisable to use sharp and sterilized pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Maytenus obbadiensis (Chiov.) Cufod.
Maytenus obbadiensis (Chiov.) Cufod., commonly known as "obba" in Ethiopia, is a small tree or large shrub that belongs to the family Celastraceae. The plant is mainly distributed in East Africa, including Ethiopia, Kenya, and Tanzania, and is generally propagated by seeds or cuttings.
Seed propagation
When propagating Maytenus obbadiensis from seeds, it is essential to use fresh seeds as they have a higher germination rate compared to old seeds. The seeds are collected from mature fruits that are fully ripe, usually between July and September. The seeds are then cleaned, soaked in water for 24 hours, and sown in a seedbed.
The seedbed should be filled with a well-draining substrate, such as a mixture of sand and peat, and should be kept moist throughout the germination period. Germination usually occurs within 2-4 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to individual containers or directly to the field once they have developed their second pair of leaves.
Cutting propagation
Maytenus obbadiensis can also be propagated from softwood or hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings are usually taken in late spring or early summer, while hardwood cuttings are taken during the dormant season, from late autumn to early winter.
The cuttings should be about 10cm long and should include a few leaves. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone to enhance their rooting ability. The cuttings are then planted in a rooting medium, such as a mixture of sand and peat, and kept under high humidity and temperature conditions. Rooting usually occurs within 3-4 weeks for softwood cuttings and 4-6 weeks for hardwood cuttings. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted to individual containers or directly to the field.
Both seed and cutting propagation methods can be successful with Maytenus obbadiensis, with seed propagation being the most widely used method in nurseries and cuttings in the field.
Disease Management of Maytenus obbadiensis
Maytenus obbadiensis is a hardy plant with no known serious disease, but it may still suffer from some diseases that can weaken or kill it. The most common diseases affecting Maytenus obbadiensis are root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf blight.
Root Rot is caused by over-watering and poorly draining soil. The root of the plant begins to turn brown and mushy, making it difficult for the plant to survive. To manage root rot, it is recommended to reduce the frequency of watering, improving drainage, and replanting in well-aerated soil.
Powdery Mildew is a fungal disease that presents as a whitish-gray powder-like substance on leaves. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and can cause leaves to die and fall off. To manage powdery mildew, it is recommended to provide adequate air circulation, practicing good sanitation by removing infected leaves and using a fungicide.
Leaf Blight is a fungal disease that causes yellowing and brown spots on leaves. It is spread by water splashing from infected leaves onto other parts of the plant. To manage leaf blight, remove infected leaves using a fungicide.
Pest Management of Maytenus obbadiensis
Maytenus obbadiensis is an attractive plant and attracts certain pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. If left unchecked, these pests can cause severe damage to the plant.
Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap from the leaves and can cause them to curl and stunt growth. To manage aphids, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to suffocate them.
Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaf underside and cause the leaves to appear stippled. To manage spider mites, clean the leaves regularly, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and, if necessary, remove heavily infested leaves.
Whiteflies are tiny white-colored insects that feed on the sap of the plant, resulting in weak leaves. To manage whiteflies, use yellow sticky traps, introduce natural enemies such as ladybugs, and use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to get rid of them.
