Overview
Orthandra lacourtiana (De Wild.) Pichon is a small tree that is native to Central Africa.
Common Names
The common names of Orthandra lacourtiana include "boulou", "bololo", and "apwoyo".
Appearance
Orthandra lacourtiana usually grows up to 8 meters tall and has a short, straight trunk with a wide crown. The bark is grey or brown and rough. The leaves are alternate and ovate with a pointed tip, measuring 10-40 cm long and 4-14 cm wide. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and form clusters at the tip of the branches. The fruit is a globose capsule that is yellow or reddish-brown in color, containing several seeds.
Uses
Orthandra lacourtiana is used for various purposes in Central Africa. The bark is used for making ropes, mats, and baskets. The wood is used for making tools, utensils, and construction. The leaves and twigs are used as animal fodder. The fruit pulp is edible and is used for making drinks, while the seeds are used for oil extraction. In traditional medicine, the bark is used to treat ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and fever.
Growth Conditions of Orthandra Lacourtiana (De Wild.) Pichon
Orthandra lacourtiana (De Wild.) Pichon, commonly known as the Cameroonian cinnamon, is a tree species that is native to certain regions in Africa. It is a small to medium-sized tree that typically grows to a height of about 20 meters. Here are the typical growth conditions required for Orthandra lacourtiana:
Light Requirements
Orthandra lacourtiana requires full sunlight to grow properly. It prefers to grow in areas where there is direct exposure to sunlight. As such, it is commonly found growing in areas such as open woodlands and forest edges. It is not recommended to grow this species in areas that are heavily shaded as it will result in stunted growth and poor health.
Temperature Requirements
Orthandra lacourtiana is a tropical tree species that requires warm to hot temperatures to grow and thrive. The ideal temperature range for this species is between 20°C and 35°C. However, it can tolerate temperatures up to 40°C, but only for short periods. Temperatures below 15°C can cause damage to the tree and may halt growth or even cause death.
Soil Requirements
Orthandra lacourtiana requires well-draining, fertile soils that are rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range for this species is between 6.0 and 7.5. It is best to avoid growing this species in soils that are prone to waterlogging or are excessively sandy as it will impede proper growth and development. This tree species requires regular watering but does not do well in waterlogged areas.
Cultivation methods for Orthandra Lacourtiana
Orthandra lacourtiana, also known as the Cameroon pear or bush pear, is a small to medium-sized tree that thrives in tropical climates. It is easy to cultivate and can be grown in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
The plant prefers well-draining soil, and it is crucial to ensure that the roots do not sit in water for long periods as this can cause root rot. If the soil is not well-draining in the planting area, make sure to improve it by adding some sand or pebbles to the soil.
The tree grows well in full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. It is best to plant the tree in an area where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
Watering Needs for Orthandra Lacourtiana
Orthandra lacourtiana has moderate watering needs and prefers well-draining soil. It is best to water the plant deeply once a week rather than giving it light watering frequently. This will help the plant establish deep roots, making it more tolerant of dry periods.
It is essential to avoid over-watering the plant as this can cause root rot, leading to the death of the tree. In areas with heavy rainfall, it may be necessary to improve drainage by amending the soil or providing a raised bed to ensure that the plant is not waterlogged for extended periods.
Fertilization for Orthandra Lacourtiana
Orthandra lacourtiana grows at a moderate rate and, therefore, requires regular fertilization to thrive. The plant can benefit from the application of a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year, preferably in the spring and fall.
The use of organic fertilizers is highly recommended as they offer slow-release nutrients, which can last for several months. Mulching around the base of the tree can also help improve soil quality, reduce moisture loss, and provide a steady supply of nutrients that will promote growth.
Pruning for Orthandra Lacourtiana
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of Orthandra lacourtiana, and it should be done after the flowering period. This will help to promote new growth, increase yields, and maintain an open, airy structure that will allow sunlight to penetrate the tree's interior.
The tree can be pruned to remove any weak or diseased branches and any growth that is crossing or rubbing against each other. It is essential to use clean and sharp tools to avoid damaging the tree and to prevent the spread of diseases.
Deadheading spent flowers from the tree can also help improve its appearance and promote new blooms.
Propagation of Orthandra lacourtiana (De Wild.) Pichon
Orthandra lacourtiana (De Wild.) Pichon is usually propagated through seeds. However, cuttings may also be used as an alternative method.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Orthandra lacourtiana (De Wild.) Pichon can be collected during the fruiting season and sown immediately. It is essential to ensure that the seeds are mature enough and have been properly dried before sowing.
Before sowing, the seeds should be treated with hot water or a diluted solution of potassium permanganate to break the seed dormancy. After treatment, the seeds should be sown in seed trays filled with a sterilized potting mix of loam and sand. The trays should be placed in the shade or under shade cloth and should be watered adequately.
Germination of Orthandra lacourtiana (De Wild.) Pichon seeds usually takes between 20 to 30 days. The seedlings should be grown under shade, with 50% shading, and transplanted into individual polythene bags filled with a potting mix of loam and sand after about six months.
Cutting Propagation
Cuttings may be used as an alternative method of propagating Orthandra lacourtiana (De Wild.) Pichon. Softwood cuttings of about 10cm long and 3mm in diameter can be taken from new growth during the rainy season.
The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone before being planted in a propagator containing a mixture of sand and loam. The propagator should be placed under a misting unit and misted at regular intervals to keep the humidity high. The cuttings should root in about six weeks and can be potted into individual polythene bags filled with a potting mix of loam and sand after about three months.
Both seed and cutting propagation of Orthandra lacourtiana (De Wild.) Pichon have been successful, with good germination and survival rates reported.
Disease and Pest Management for Orthandra lacourtiana
Orthandra lacourtiana, commonly known as the Krauss' snow-berry, is a tropical plant that is highly susceptible to various diseases and pest attacks. Proper disease and pest management practices ensure the plant remains healthy and productive. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect Orthandra lacourtiana and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Phytophthora Root Rot: This is a soil-borne disease that affects the roots of Orthandra lacourtiana. Symptoms include leaf wilt, yellowing, and defoliation. To manage this disease, avoid planting the shrub in poorly drained soils. You can also apply fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew: This disease affects the leaves of the shrub, creating white powdery patches. The disease can be managed by ensuring adequate air circulation and preventing overhead watering. You can also apply fungicides or prune off heavily infected leaves.
Rust: This disease causes red and brown spots on the leaves of Orthandra lacourtiana. The spots eventually enlarge and become raised. To manage rust, remove all infected leaves and branches and apply fungicides. Ensure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids suck sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and yellow. You can manage aphids by washing them off the leaves with a jet of water or by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to control aphids.
Spider Mites: These pests cause yellowing and webbing on the leaves of Orthandra lacourtiana. To manage spider mites, wash the leaves with a jet of water or spray them with insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybirds or predatory mites to control spider mites.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can cause defoliation of the plant, leading to stunted growth. You can manage caterpillars by handpicking them off the leaves or by using Bacillus thuringiensis or spinosad-based insecticides.
Employing good cultural practices such as pruning, proper irrigation and fertilization can go a long way in preventing disease and pest infestations in Orthandra lacourtiana. Regularly monitoring the plant for signs of diseases and pest infestations and taking prompt action when necessary is key to keeping the plant healthy and productive.
