Origin
Notobuxus nyasica, also known as Nyasa boxwood, is a plant species belonging to the family Buxaceae. It is native to eastern Africa, particularly in Malawi, Tanzania, and Zambia.
Common Names
Aside from Nyasa boxwood, Notobuxus nyasica is also commonly referred to as African boxwood and Mlanje boxwood.
Uses
Notobuxus nyasica is commonly used for ornamental purposes as it is a shrub with attractive leaves and an overall neat appearance. In traditional medicine, various parts of the plant such as the bark, leaves, and roots are used for their antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant is also used to treat stomach ulcers, respiratory ailments, and malaria.
General Appearance
Notobuxus nyasica grows up to 5 meters tall and has a rounded to spreading growth habit. It has a pale grey-brown bark and the branches are thick with dense foliage. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped, measuring around 2-4 cm in length. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that develop into red-brown berry-like fruits, which are around 5-7mm in diameter.
Light Requirements
The Notobuxus nyasica plant requires partial shade to full sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in an environment where it receives at least six hours of sunlight a day. However, it is crucial to protect the plant from direct sunlight in hot summer months as it can cause scorching of the leaves.
Soil Requirements
The Notobuxus nyasica plant grows well in well-drained soils with high organic matter content. It prefers loamy soils that are rich in nutrients and can hold moisture without becoming waterlogged. The pH of the soil should range between 6.0 to 7.0 for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The Notobuxus nyasica plant grows well in tropical and subtropical climates. As such, the ideal temperature for growth is between 20°C to 30°C. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C, but this can slow down growth. At temperatures above 35°C, the plant begins to wilt and may eventually die if not treated in time.
Cultivation methods
Notobuxus nyasica, also known as African Boxwood, is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. If you are growing it as a potted plant, ensure that the container has adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
You can propagate the African Boxwood by using cuttings or by layering. It is best to propagate the plant in the early spring or late fall when the temperatures are cooler.
Watering needs
When it comes to watering Notobuxus nyasica, you should aim for thorough but infrequent watering. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to prevent root rot, but ensure that the soil does not become completely dry. During the hot summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering to keep it hydrated.
Fertilization
Fertilization is vital for the healthy growth of Notobuxus nyasica. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring, just as new growth begins. If you notice that the plant is not growing or producing new leaves, you can apply another round of fertilizer in the summer. However, avoid fertilizing the plant too much as this can lead to weak stems and foliage.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of the care for Notobuxus nyasica. Prune the shrub in the early spring to remove any damaged or dead branches and to shape the plant. Pinch off any new growth at the tips of the branch to encourage bushier growth. Regular pruning helps to maintain the shape and size of the plant.
Propagation of Notobuxus nyasica (Hutch.) E.Phillips
Notobuxus nyasica (Hutch.) E.Phillips is a rare and endangered species of plant that is indigenous to Malawi and Tanzania. Propagation of this plant is crucial to its survival and conservation. There are several methods by which Notobuxus nyasica can be propagated:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Notobuxus nyasica can be collected from mature fruits which ripen from December to March. The seeds should be planted in individual pots filled with well-draining soil and kept at a temperature of 20-25°C. Seed germination typically occurs within 4 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of 5-10 cm, they can be transplanted to a larger pot or to the planting site in the field.
Cuttings Propagation
Notobuxus nyasica can also be propagated from cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken from the previous year's growth can be rooted in a rooting hormone and planted in individual pots filled with well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept at a temperature of 20-25°C and should be watered regularly. Rooting typically occurs within 4-6 weeks, and once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to a larger pot or to the planting site in the field.
Division Propagation
Notobuxus nyasica can also be propagated by division. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections, each with its own roots and stems. The divided sections can then be planted in individual pots or directly in the field. This method is best done during the plant's dormant season, which is from June to September.
These are the three main propagation methods for Notobuxus nyasica. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of method will depend on factors such as the available resources, the size of the planting area, and the desired outcome.
Disease and Pest Management for Notobuxus Nyasica (Hutch.) E.Phillips
Notobuxus nyasica, commonly known as the Malawi boxwood, is a plant species native to Eastern Africa. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests, which can lower its productivity and even kill it. Therefore, it is essential to know the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways of managing them.
Diseases
Some of the common diseases that affect Notobuxus nyasica include:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular brown spots to appear on the plant's leaves. The spots may merge to form large, irregular patches, causing the leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage this disease, it is advisable to remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Root Rot
Root rot is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects many plant species, including Notobuxus nyasica. The disease attacks the roots, causing them to decay and turn brown. Infected plants may exhibit stunted growth, wilt, and ultimately die. To manage root rot, it is advisable to avoid overwatering the plant, improve soil drainage, and apply fungicides to the soil according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating to appear on the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers. The disease may also cause leaves to curl and turn yellow, leading to premature dropping. To manage this disease, it is advisable to remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid overcrowding, and apply fungicides according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pests
Some of the common pests that affect Notobuxus nyasica include:
Boxwood Psyllid
The boxwood psyllid is a common pest that feeds on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage this pest, it is advisable to prune the affected branches, remove and destroy infested leaves, and apply insecticides according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Boxwood Spider Mite
The boxwood spider mite is another pest that feeds on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage this pest, it is advisable to prune the affected branches, remove and destroy infested leaves, and apply insecticides according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Boxwood Leafminer
The boxwood leafminer is a pest that attacks the plant's leaves, causing them to form blisters and noticeable bumps. To manage this pest, it is advisable to prune the affected branches, remove and destroy infested leaves, and apply insecticides according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Conclusion
Managing pests and diseases is crucial to ensure the health and productivity of Notobuxus nyasica. Regular pruning, removal, and destruction of infected leaves and using necessary fungicides and insecticides according to manufacturers' instructions can help keep the plant healthy and productive.
