Origin
Neochevalierodendron stephanii (A.Chev.) J.Léonard, commonly known as Obom, is native to tropical west Africa, particularly in Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Common Names
Neochevalierodendron stephanii has a variety of common names, including Obom, Ande, Andehuaca, Elom, and M'Ondoubou.
Uses
Neochevalierodendron stephanii is often used in traditional medicine throughout Africa, particularly as a remedy for maladies such as malaria, diarrhea, and paralysis. The bark is commonly used, as it contains compounds with antimalarial, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic properties.
The wood of Neochevalierodendron stephanii is also used for construction, particularly for flooring and furniture.
General Appearance
Neochevalierodendron stephanii is a medium-sized to large deciduous tree, growing up to 30 meters tall with a 70-90 cm trunk diameter. Its bark is smooth and a brown-grey color. The leaves are compound and alternate, with 8-10 elliptic to oblong leaflets ranging from 7 to 17 cm in length. The tree produces small greenish-yellow flowers, which are followed by green, woody fruit pods that contain seeds.
Light Requirements
Neochevalierodendron stephanii prefers bright, indirect light. Place the plant near a window where it can receive a few hours of direct sunlight in the morning or evening. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight as it can damage the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Neochevalierodendron stephanii is between 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). The plant requires a moderate to high level of humidity, and it does not tolerate extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature. Avoid placing the plant near air conditioning units or drafty windows.
Soil Requirements
Neochevalierodendron stephanii prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter, such as peat moss or coconut coir. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilizer Requirements
Neochevalierodendron stephanii should be fertilized every two to four weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer, diluted to half-strength. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season. Over-fertilization can lead to leaf burn and other issues.
Pot Requirements
The pot should be slightly larger than the plant's root ball, with drainage holes at the bottom. Use a pot with good drainage to prevent waterlogging and root rot. The pot should be cleaned and replaced every two years to prevent salt buildup in the soil mix.
Cultivation:
Neochevalierodendron stephanii is an evergreen tropical tree that grows best in warm and humid conditions. It can be grown indoors as a houseplant or outdoors as a garden tree.
For indoor cultivation, plant the tree in a pot with well-draining soil. It requires bright but indirect sunlight, so place it near a window that does not receive direct sun exposure. For outdoor cultivation, ensure that the tree is planted in a shaded area with well-draining soil.
Watering Needs:
Neochevalierodendron stephanii requires consistent moisture while allowing the soil to dry out partially between watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure that the soil is not waterlogged. In dry conditions, the leaves may turn yellow, indicating a need for more water. In humid conditions, misting the leaves can prevent them from drying out excessively.
Fertilization:
Neochevalierodendron stephanii benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season, which is spring to summer. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Reduce fertilization during the fall to winter, when growth slows down.
Pruning:
Pruning is not essential for Neochevalierodendron stephanii, but it can be done to maintain a desired shape or size. Pruning can also be done to remove dead or diseased branches. It is best to prune after the tree has flowered, which is typically in the late summer or early fall. Use sterilized pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Neochevalierodendron stephanii
Neochevalierodendron stephanii is a rare and endangered tropical plant species commonly found in Cameroon, Africa. The plant is an evergreen shrub or small tree that features beautiful foliage and fragrant flowers, making it an ideal addition to any garden or landscape. Propagating this plant can be a challenge due to its slow-growing nature and susceptibility to pests and diseases. However, there are various methods for propagating Neochevalierodendron stephanii, including:
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Neochevalierodendron stephanii can be done through seeds. The seeds of this plant have a hard outer layer that needs to be scarified to facilitate germination. The scarification process involves nicking or sanding the outer layer of the seed before planting them in a well-prepared seedbed. The seedbed should be well-drained, moist, and fertile to promote the growth of the seedlings. Seeds can be sowed from the end of winter to early spring.
Propagation by Cuttings
Another method of propagating Neochevalierodendron stephanii is through stem cuttings. Softwood cuttings taken from the plant's current season's growth have a higher chance of rooting successfully. The cuttings should be approximately 6 to 8 inches long, with at least two or three leaves. The cuttings should be taken from the tip of the branches, removing the bottom leaves, and dipped into a rooting hormone before being planted into the well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a warm environment until they are established.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting Neochevalierodendron stephanii is another propagation method to create some uniformity in a crop. Grafting requires a rootstock of a related species of Neochevalierodendron. One plant, such as Neochevalierodendron stephanii, will be the scion. The scion and rootstock are then joined together by making a cut and the cambium layers aligned. The joined plant parts are then secured with grafting tape. The new plant is then placed in a cool, shaded area to allow for healing and watered frequently.
Conclusion
Propagating Neochevalierodendron stephanii is not an easy task, but with the right knowledge and tools, it is possible. Seed propagation, cutting propagation, and grafting are the top three methods used to propagate this rare plant. By selecting the right propagation method that suits your needs and environment, you can increase the production of Neochevalierodendron stephanii and ensure their conservation for future generations to enjoy.
Disease Management
Neochevalierodendron stephanii is generally a healthy plant species, but some diseases may affect its growth and health. The most common diseases known to affect these plants include:
- Leaf Spot: The disease is characterized by dark spots on the leaves, which can grow bigger over time. Affected leaves may turn yellow and drop. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy all infected materials, practice good sanitation, and avoid sprinkling water on the leaves.
- Powdery Mildew: The fungal disease appears as white powdery patches on the leaves and stems. It may cause leaf curling, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage powdery mildew, maintain good air circulation, control humidity, and avoid overhead watering.
- Root Rot: This fungal disease is caused by overwatering or poor soil drainage, leading to root decay and death. Infected plants may have wilting leaves and stunted growth. To manage root rot, improve soil drainage, avoid overwatering, and use well-draining soil.
Pest Management
Neochevalierodendron stephanii can also attract a few pests that may affect its growth and health. Some common pests that you may encounter in growing this plant are:
- Aphids: These small sap-sucking insects can damage the leaves, stems, and flowers by causing distortion, yellowing, and dropping. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or other natural remedies. You may also introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs.
- Mealybugs: These soft-bodied insects appear as cottony masses on the leaves and stems, sucking sap and secreting honeydew that attracts ants. To manage mealybugs, use cotton swabs dipped in alcohol to remove them manually, or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids can cause yellowing, bronzing, and stippling on the leaves, and produce webbing in heavy infestations. To manage spider mites, increase humidity, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce predatory mites.
Regular monitoring, early detection, and proper management of diseases and pests can help ensure the health and vigor of your Neochevalierodendron stephanii plants.
