Overview
Morella microbracteata, also known as Weimann's wax-myrtle, is a shrub species that belongs to the Myricaceae family. Native to East Africa, this plant has several uses, such as medicinal and ornamental purposes.
Description
Weimann's wax-myrtle is a woody shrub that can grow up to 8 meters tall. The bark is smooth and light brown while the leaves are simple, alternate, and oblong-shaped, measuring 4-8 cm long and 3-5 cm wide. The plant is dioecious, which means it has separate male and female flowers. The male catkins are yellow and cylindrical while the female flowers are small and green.
Common Names
Aside from Weimann's wax-myrtle, Morella microbracteata also goes by various names in different regions such as Mkilifi wax-myrtle, coast wax-myrtle, and not to be confused with another species also known as Mkilifi wax-myrtle (Morella pleiomeris).
Origins
It is native to the East African coast, including Tanzania, Kenya, and Somalia. It is typically found growing in riverine forests and adjacent grasslands and prefers well-drained soils.
Uses
The leaves of Weimann's wax-myrtle are used medicinally in East Africa to treat various ailments such as stomach ache, fever, and skin infections. The roots and bark are also used to make a tea believed to promote general health. Furthermore, the plant is also valued for its ornamental qualities and is often cultivated for landscaping purposes.
Light Requirements
The plant Morella microbracteata thrives in areas with direct sunlight exposure. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of full sunlight per day. Therefore, it is advisable to plant it in areas with unobstructed exposure to the sun. Furthermore, this plant can also tolerate partial shade or dappled sunlight, but it may not grow as vigorously as it would under full sunlight.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil type for Morella microbracteata is well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH of around 6.0 to 7.0. This plant also requires fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. Therefore, it is recommended to amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure before planting. Additionally, this species can also tolerate sandy or loamy soil, but it is crucial to ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Morella microbracteata is native to tropical and subtropical regions. Therefore, it requires warm temperatures to grow well. The plant can tolerate a minimum temperature of approximately 14°C (57.2°F) but thrives in temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). Therefore, it is best to plant this species in areas with warm temperatures throughout the year, but it can tolerate temporary drops in temperature during the winter months.
Cultivation Methods
Morella microbracteata is a shrub that can grow up to 2 meters tall, and it thrives in well-drained soil. This plant prefers full sun exposure, but it can tolerate partially shaded areas. This species can be propagated via seeds, cuttings, or layering. When planted in a garden, it is advisable to space them around 2 meters apart. Since this plant can tolerate drought, it is suitable for arid regions.
Watering Needs
Morella microbracteata has medium water requirements. This plant can withstand drought, but it needs to be watered during the dry season. When watering, it is advisable to avoid overwatering since this species is susceptible to root rot. The soil should be allowed to dry before the next watering session. Using rainwater or distilled water is recommended since this plant is sensitive to high levels of salts contained in tap water.
Fertilization
Applying fertilizer is recommended, but it should be done with moderation. Over-fertilization can harm this plant. Adding compost to the soil annually is recommended, and it should be done during the rainy season. In case of nutrient deficiency signs such as yellowing of leaves, applying a balanced liquid fertilizer can be useful.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the healthy growth of Morella microbracteata. This process should be done minimally and mainly during the dry season to avoid causing damage to the plant. The pruning activities include removing dry and wilted leaves and stems, which helps promote new growth.
Propagation of Morella microbracteata
Morella microbracteata (Weim.) Verdc. & Polhill, also known as African wax berry, is propagated by seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds of Morella microbracteata are collected from mature berries that have turned black. To germinate the seeds, scarification is necessary to break the hard seed coat. This can be done by soaking the seeds in boiling water for a few minutes or nicking the seed coat with a knife. After scarification, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to ensure water absorption before planting. The seeds can be planted in pots filled with a mixture of peat and sand and kept in a warm, moist environment. Germination usually occurs within 2 to 3 months.
Propagation by cuttings
Softwood cuttings from Morella microbracteata can be taken in late spring or early summer. Cut a 3 to 4-inch section of a stem that has no flowers or buds. Remove the lower leaves leaving only a few on the top. Dip the cut end in a rooting hormone powder and plant the cutting in a pot filled with moist sand. Keep the pot in a warm, bright location and mist the cutting daily to keep the soil moist. Roots should form in 2 to 3 weeks. Once roots have formed, plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it in a warm, well-lit area for further growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Morella microbracteata
Morella microbracteata is a plant that is resilient to diseases and pests under favorable conditions; however, certain factors can make it susceptible. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Canker Diseases: Canker diseases are caused by fungi and bacteria that invade through wounds and stressed tissue. The affected parts of the plant show wilting, yellowing, and dieback. To manage canker diseases, prune and destroy infected branches and use copper-based fungicides as a preventative measure.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by fungi that infect the roots, causing them to become soft, decayed, and black. It spreads quickly, causing the plant to wilt and die. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering, and ensure proper drainage. If root rot is observed, remove the affected plant and replace with a new one, ensuring proper soil preparation before replanting.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that manifests as circular, dark-colored spots with tan centers on the leaves and stem. The plant's affected parts can become distorted and discolored, leading to stunted growth and death. To manage anthracnose, prune and destroy affected parts and use copper-based fungicides as a preventive measure.
Pests
Scale Insects: Scale insects are tiny, immobile pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stem of the plant, sucking on its sap, and causing yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. The most effective way to manage scale insects is to prune and destroy affected parts, increase the humidity around the plant, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the undersides of the leaves, causing yellowing, browning, and defoliation. To prevent spider mite infestations, avoid overfertilizing, ensure proper irrigation, and apply insecticidal soaps or neem oil to manage them.
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck on the sap of the plant, causing it to twist, curl, and become stunted. The most effective way to manage aphids is to prune and destroy affected parts, blast them with water, use organic insecticides, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs to control their population.
By following the above disease and pest management practices, you can keep your Morella microbracteata plant healthy, productive, and thriving.
