Origin
Ostryoderris lucida, also known as the African satinwood or yellowheart, is a tree that is native to central and eastern Africa.
Common Names
In addition to African satinwood and yellowheart, this tree is also known by other common names including beauty-leaf, Mobango and Ol Mokito.
Uses
The wood of Ostryoderris lucida is highly valued for its hardness, durability and beautiful yellow color, and is used for making decorative and functional items like furniture, flooring and carvings. The bark of the tree has medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever and diarrhea.
General Appearance
The African satinwood is a large evergreen tree that can reach as much as 40 meters in height and a trunk diameter of up to one meter. The tree has a straight trunk with a smooth, pale yellow bark that becomes rough and dark with age. The leaves are pinnate and composed of up to 10 pairs of glossy, dark green leaflets that are oval-shaped and pointed. This plant produces fragrant flowers that are yellow or greenish-yellow and are followed by yellow-brown pods that measure up to 18cm long.
Light Requirements
Ostryoderris lucida requires full sunlight for optimum growth. The plant thrives in direct sunlight and can also tolerate partial shade, but it will not grow as fast as when exposed to full sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, they grow best in tropical to subtropical climate conditions. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 20°C to 30°C. Ostryoderris lucida can withstand freezing temperatures but not for prolonged periods.
Soil Requirements
Well-drained soils are ideal for Ostryoderris lucida growth. The plant thrives in loamy soils with neutral to acidic pH levels (pH 5.5-6.5). The soil must be rich in organic matter. Sandy soils are also suitable for the plant, but regular watering and fertilization are necessary to maintain healthy growth.
Cultivation methods for Ostryoderris lucida
Ostryoderris lucida is a tropical plant species that grows best in warm, humid environments. It requires well-draining soil with a pH of between 6.0 and 7.5.
Propagation of Ostryoderris lucida is commonly done through stem cuttings or seeds. If propagated through seeds, it is best to soak the seeds in water for about 24 hours before planting in a moist, well-draining soil mixture.
When planting stem cuttings, it is recommended that they are taken from mature plants and allowed to dry and callous over for a few days before planting. It is advisable to use a rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil until roots have developed.
Watering needs for Ostryoderris lucida
Ostryoderris lucida requires moderate watering, as it is sensitive to both waterlogging and drought. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil is dry, but do not allow the soil to become too dry or too wet.
During the growing season, it is recommended that the plant be watered more frequently, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. During winter months, reduce watering to avoid root rot.
Fertilization of Ostryoderris lucida
Ostryoderris lucida should be fertilized during the growing season, from spring to summer, with a balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
It is advisable to apply fertilizer every four weeks, using a half-strength solution to avoid overfeeding the plant. During the rest period, reduce fertilization or stop altogether.
Pruning of Ostryoderris lucida
Pruning Ostryoderris lucida helps to promote a healthy growth habit and to maintain the plant's shape.
To do this, remove weak and diseased stems and branches with a sterilized, sharp pruning tool. Always cut at a slight angle to prevent water from collecting on the cut surface, which could lead to rotting.
It is best to prune the plant during the rest period to avoid damage to new growth and to prevent the plant from becoming too leggy.
Propagation of Ostryoderris lucida
Ostryoderris lucida, commonly known as the African satinwood, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Angola, Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a wide canopy. It has white flowers that bloom in the spring and has green leaves that turn yellow in the fall.
Propagation by seed
The easiest way to propagate Ostryoderris lucida is by seed. The seeds are small and need to be removed from the pod. Sow the seeds in a pot filled with soil, and cover with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and in a warm place, and the seeds should germinate in about three weeks.
Propagation by cuttings
Another way to propagate Ostryoderris lucida is through cuttings. Cut a healthy stem from the mother plant and remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with soil. Water the cutting regularly and keep it in a warm place. In about two to three months, the cutting should root, and you will see new growth.
Propagation by grafting
Grafting is another method of propagating Ostryoderris lucida. This method involves taking a branch or bud from the desired tree and attaching it to a rootstock. The rootstock can be chosen for its hardiness or ability to resist certain pests and diseases. The process involves cutting a slit in the rootstock and inserting the branch or bud from the desired tree. Wrap the graft with grafting tape to protect it and keep it in a warm place. In about two to three months, the graft should take, and new growth should appear.
Overall, Ostryoderris lucida is a beautiful tree that can be propagated easily by seed, cuttings, or grafting. With the right care and attention, the tree can thrive and add beauty to any landscape.
Disease Management for Ostryoderris lucida
Ostryoderris lucida is generally resistant to most diseases. However, in certain conditions, they may still be susceptible to some diseases, including leaf spot and root rot.
To prevent leaf spot, it is essential to keep the plant foliage dry as much as possible by avoiding overhead watering. In case of infection, prune off and destroy the infected leaves and stems to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be applied as a preventive measure.
Root rot can be controlled by ensuring the soil is well-draining and not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, and remove any dead or damaged roots as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the disease. In severe cases, fungicides can be applied to the soil and the plant root system.
Pest Management for Ostryoderris lucida
Ostryoderris lucida is relatively resistant to pests. However, they may still be affected by spider mites and mealybugs.
Spider mites can be controlled by regularly spraying the plant with water to dislodge them. Natural predators of spider mites, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can also be introduced to the garden. If necessary, pesticide application can also be considered.
Mealybugs can be physically removed from the plant by wiping them off with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Natural predators, such as ladybugs and parasitic wasps, can also be introduced to control the pest. If necessary, insecticides can be applied, but caution must be taken not to damage the plant.
