Origin and Common Names
Morella salicifolia var. kilimandscharica, also known as East African bayberry or Kilimanjaro wax-myrtle, is a species of plant that belongs to the Myricaceae family. It is native to Kenya and Tanzania, particularly in the Kilimanjaro region. The plant grows at an altitude of 1,800 to 3,000 meters above sea level.General Appearance
The East African bayberry is a small evergreen tree that can grow up to six meters tall. It has a round-shaped crown that is open and spreading with slender branches. The leaves are simple, alternate, and lanceolate with a shiny green color and are about 7 to 10 cm long and 1.5 to 2 cm wide. The plant also produces small white flowers that grow in clusters which eventually develop into small, purplish-black, or brownish drupes.Uses
The Kilimanjaro wax-myrtle has both medicinal and culinary uses. The leaves of the plant are used to make tea, which is believed to have medicinal properties that can help treat coughs, colds, and fevers. The fruit, on the other hand, is used to make jam. The wax that covers the fruit is utilized in making candles and soap, hence the name wax-myrtle. Additionally, the wood from the tree is used for carving and to make furniture. In conclusion, the Morella salicifolia var. kilimandscharica is a small evergreen tree with medicinal and culinary uses. It is native to Kenya and Tanzania and grows at an altitude of 1,800 to 3,000 meters above sea level. It produces small white flowers that eventually grow into small, purplish-black, or brownish drupes that are used to make jam, while the wax that covers the fruit is used in making candles and soap.Light Requirements:
The Morella salicifolia var. kilimandscharica prefers to grow under partial shade or filtered sunlight conditions. Direct exposure to the sun for an extended period can scorch the foliage.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant can withstand a broad range of temperature conditions, from as low as 5°C to as high as 35°C. However, the optimum temperature range is between 20°C to 25°C during the day and 15°C to 20°C at night.
Soil Requirements:
The plant prefers to grow in well-draining soils, which are rich in organic matter and slightly acidic in nature. The soil pH range should be between 5.5 to 6.5. This plant can grow in a variety of soil types consisting of sandy, loamy, or clay soil. However, the soil should be kept moist, as prolonged dryness can lead to wilting and leaf drop.
Cultivation
Morella salicifolia var. kilimandscharica is a hardy and adaptable shrub that can grow in a wide range of soils and climatic conditions. It is a slow-growing plant that prefers well-drained and slightly acidic soil. The plant can thrive in both full sunlight and partial shade. When planting, ensure that the soil is well loosened and that the root ball is adequately secured.
Watering needs
Watering should be done consistently, especially during the first year after planting, to allow the plant to establish itself. The plant requires moderate watering but can tolerate dry conditions once it has matured. To avoid overwatering, allow the soil to dry out partially between watering sessions.
Fertilization
To promote growth and ensure healthy development, fertilizer application is necessary. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in the early spring before new growth appears, and again in late summer after the shrub has finished blooming. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive leaf production at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Pruning is not mandatory for Morella salicifolia var. kilimandscharica but can help shape the shrub and promote dense growth. The best time for pruning is in the early spring before new growth appears. Prune any dead or damaged branches first, then remove any crossing branches and suckers that emerge from the base of the plant. Cut back any overly long branches to maintain a compact and tidy appearance.
Propagation of Morella salicifolia var. kilimandscharica
Morella salicifolia var. kilimandscharica, also known as Kilimanjaro Myrtle, is a hardy and versatile shrub that grows in a wide range of soil conditions and altitudes. This plant can be propagated through various methods such as:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Kilimanjaro Myrtle through seeds is easy. Collect seeds from mature fruits during the autumn season. The seeds must be cleaned and dried in a well-ventilated area. Sow the seeds in a seedling tray filled with well-draining soil. The plant will germinate within 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, you can transplant them into pots or directly into the garden.
Cuttings Propagation
Kilimanjaro Myrtle can be propagated by cuttings from semi-hard or softwood during the spring or summer season. Take cuttings from the healthy plant with clean and sharp pruning shears. The cuttings should be around 4 to 6 inches long with a few leaves and without any flowers or fruits. Dip the cutting into the rooting hormone powder and plant it in a soilless mixture or well-draining soil. Water the plant and place it in a warm, humid, and shady location. Roots will develop within 4-6 weeks. Transplant them into pots or directly into the garden.
Layering Propagation
Layering is another propagation method that is suitable for Kilimanjaro Myrtle. Choose ground level branches with supple stems and bend them to form an arch. Dig a shallow trench near the stem and bury the stem tip. A rooting hormone can be applied to enhance the process. Cover the tip with soil, then anchor it with a wire or stone to keep it in place. Over time, roots will grow from the buried stem tip. Once the roots are established, cut the branch from the mother plant and transplant it into the desired location.
Disease Management
Morella salicifolia var. kilimandscharica can be affected by several diseases including fungal and bacterial infections. Some common diseases that can affect the plant include:
- Leaf spots: This is a fungal disease that causes dark spots on the leaves. To manage it, affected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Avoid watering the plant from the top, as this can spread the disease. Applying fungicides can also help in the management of leaf spots.
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white powdery substance on the leaves. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and the plant should be treated with a fungicide.
- Bacterial blight: This is a bacterial disease that causes wilting and the appearance of yellowish-brown spots on the leaves. Infected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and the plant should be treated with a copper-based fungicide.
Pest Management
Morella salicifolia var. kilimandscharica can also be affected by a few pests:
- Mites: These are tiny spider-like insects that feed on the leaves of the plant causing wilting. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can help manage mites.
- Scale insects: These are small insects that attach themselves to the leaves, stems, and trunks of the plant, sucking out its sap. They can be managed by applying neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These are small, white, cotton-like insects that can infest the plant, damaging its leaves and stems. Mealybugs can be controlled by applying alcohol or insecticidal soap to the affected areas.
