Overview of Mystroxylon aethiopicum subsp. aethiopicum
Mystroxylon aethiopicum subsp. aethiopicum is a small evergreen tree or shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is a common plant in the African region, particularly in Ethiopia, Somalia, and Kenya, and can also be found in other countries such as Tanzania and Uganda.
Common names
The plant is commonly referred to as East African Kamferboom, East African Blackwood, or African Blackwood. The name 'Blackwood' references the distinctive black bark which frequently peels away in large patches.
Uses
Mystroxylon aethiopicum subsp. aethiopicum has a variety of uses. The wood of the plant is heavily prized for its beauty and durability, as well as its sweet scent. It is a popular choice for making high-grade musical instruments such as clarinets, oboes, and African xylophones, as well as high-end furniture and carvings. The plant's bark is used for medicinal purposes to treat chest pains, stomach ailments, and decoctions of the bark can be used to promote the healing of wounds. The leaves can be used in a poultice to reduce inflammation and bug bites. The plant is also known to have anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties.
General Appearance
Mystroxylon aethiopicum subsp. aethiopicum typically grows to a height of between 4 to 9 meters. The tree or shrub has a dense, umbrella-shaped canopy that can spread up to 7 meters. The leaves of the plant are pinnate and alternate, with 6-10 pairs of leaflets per leaf. The flowers of the plant are small and tubular, with a creamy white or yellowish color. The fruits of the plant are woody brown pods with a length of up to 10cm. The bark of the plant is rough and dark, with patches that peel off to reveal a lighter color underneath. The wood of the plant is dark and hard, with fine grains and a sweet fragrance.
Light Requirements
Mystroxylon aethiopicum (Thunb.) Loes. subsp. aethiopicum requires plenty of sunlight to grow well. It prefers full-sun to partial shade conditions for optimum growth. The plant cannot thrive in total darkness, and it needs the sun's energy to complete vital processes such as photosynthesis, growth, and metabolism.
Temperature Requirements
Mystroxylon aethiopicum (Thunb.) Loes. subsp. aethiopicum is a tropical plant and demands warm temperatures to thrive successfully. The tree grows optimally in areas with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. Temperatures below 10°C can cause plant death or stunted growth. The plant can, therefore, only grow in locations with such optimum temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in fertile soils with good drainage and excellent water retention capabilities. The ideal soil type is sandy loam soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers soil with high organic matter content, and soil deficiencies are best addressed by using organic composts or manure. Additionally, the plant's root system is sensitive, and shallow planting is necessary for optimal growth.
Cultivation methods
Mystroxylon aethiopicum (Thunb.) Loes. subsp. aethiopicum, commonly known as African padauk, can be cultivated in most tropical regions. It prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The ideal temperature for its growth ranges from 20°C to 30°C. The plant can be propagated through seedlings, grafting, or hardwood cuttings. Seedlings should be transplanted when they reach a height of about 40 cm.
Watering needs
Proper watering is crucial to the growth and health of African padauk. The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, which should be reduced in winter. Overwatering can cause root rot and other diseases. It is recommended that the soil be kept moist but not waterlogged during the growing season.
Fertilization
The plant requires proper fertilization to grow correctly and produce healthy foliage. A balanced fertilizer can be applied before the growing season begins. A nitrogen-rich fertilizer can also be applied to enhance the growth of the plant. However, excessive use of fertilizer can damage the plant's root system and lead to nutrient toxicity symptoms. Fertilizer application must be done with caution.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of the care of African padauk. It enhances the plant's growth and allows it to maintain a perfect shape. Pruning can be done during the growing season, immediately after flowering, or before new growth appears. Dead, damaged, or diseased branches should be removed as soon as they are noticed. A clean, sharp pruning tool must be used to prevent tearing or damaging the plant's bark.
Propagation of Mystroxylon aethiopicum
Mystroxylon aethiopicum (Thunb.) Loes. subsp. aethiopicum, commonly known as African blackwood or mpingo, is a slow-growing tree native to East Africa. Propagating this plant requires patience and care. The following are some ways to propagate Mystroxylon aethiopicum:
Seed propagation
Mystroxylon aethiopicum can be propagated by seed. The seeds must be collected from the plant when they are ripe, and then cleaned and stored in a dry place until they are ready for planting. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and covered with a light layer of soil. The pots should be kept in a warm, humid area, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It may take several weeks for the seeds to germinate, so patience is essential. Once the seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted into larger pots or into the ground.
Cuttings propagation
Another way to propagate Mystroxylon aethiopicum is by taking cuttings from the plant. This method works best during the growing season when the plant is actively putting out new growth. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and should be about 10 to 20 centimeters long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage the growth of new roots. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and covered with plastic to create a humid environment. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, and the plastic should be removed once the cuttings have rooted and new growth appears. The new plants can be transplanted into larger pots or into the ground.
Air layering propagation
Air layering is another way to propagate Mystroxylon aethiopicum. This method involves making a small cut in the stem of the plant, then wrapping the cut area with moistened sphagnum moss or another suitable rooting medium. The cut area should be covered with plastic to create a humid environment. Once roots have formed, the new plant can be cut away from the parent plant and transplanted.
Disease Management
The plant Mystroxylon aethiopicum (Thunb.) Loes. subsp. aethiopicum can be affected by various diseases. One of the most common diseases that affect this plant is Leaf Spot. Leaf Spot is a fungal disease that appears as small, dark lesions on the leaves. This disease can be prevented by clearing away infected leaves and reducing moisture around the plant. Fungicides can also be used to manage this disease.
Another common disease that affects the plant is Powdery Mildew. Powdery Mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves. This disease can be prevented by ensuring sufficient air circulation around the plant and avoiding wet foliage. Fungicides can also be used to manage this disease.
Finally, Root Rot is another common disease that can affect the plant. Root Rot is a fungal disease that occurs when the roots of the plant are exposed to too much moisture. This disease can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage around the plant and avoiding overwatering.
Pest Management
The plant Mystroxylon aethiopicum (Thunb.) Loes. subsp. aethiopicum can also be affected by various pests. One of the most common pests that affect this plant is the Mealybug. Mealybugs are small, white insects that feed on the sap of the plant. These insects can be managed by using insecticides or by removing them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Another common pest that affects the plant is the Spider Mite. Spider Mites are small, red or yellow insects that feed on the sap of the plant. These insects can be managed by spraying the plant with water to remove them or by using insecticides.
Finally, the Plant Bug is another common pest that can affect the plant. Plant Bugs are small, green insects that feed on the foliage of the plant. These insects can be managed by using insecticides or by handpicking them from the plant.
