Origin
Pandiaka cylindrica Hook.f. ex Baker & C.B.Clarke, commonly known as the African Rosewood, is a small tree species of the Fabaceae family that originates from tropical West Africa. It can be found in countries like Ghana, Sierra Leone, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast.
Common Names
Pandiaka cylindrica has several common names which include African Rosewood, Senegal Satinwood, Bubinga, Essingang, Akume, Kevazingo, Ovangkol, and Waka.
Appearance
The African Rosewood tree grows up to 30 meters tall and can have a diameter of up to 1 meter at breast height. The tree has a cylindrical trunk, hence its species name and produces an excellent quality hardwood. The branches are numerous, spreading, and form an open, irregular canopy.
The bark of the tree is smooth, gray, and shiny, while the leaves are alternate and pinnate with 7 - 9 leaflets that have a glossy appearance. The hardwood of the tree varies from pale yellow-brown to reddish-brown with darker brown streaks that develop over time.
Uses
The hardwood produced by the African Rosewood tree is highly valued and widely used for making furniture, cabinets, carvings, and musical instruments like guitars and drums. It is prized for its durability, stability, and attractive grain patterns.
Additionally, the extract from the bark of the tree is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, malaria, and intestinal worms. The leaves of the tree are also used in herbal medicine to treat skin diseases.
In conclusion, Pandiaka cylindrica Hook.f. ex Baker & C.B.Clarke is an important tree species that provides both economic and medicinal benefits. Efforts should be made to ensure that the species is sustainably managed to avoid overexploitation.
Growth Conditions for Pandiaka cylindrica Hook.f. ex Baker & C.B.Clarke
Pandiaka cylindrica Hook.f. ex Baker & C.B.Clarke commonly referred to as the dried flower, is a tropical plant native to West and Central Africa. This plant thrives in warm and humid conditions and is relatively easy to grow. Below are some specific growth conditions that are ideal for this plant:
Light Requirements
Pandiaka cylindrica requires moderate to bright indirect light. In its natural habitat, it grows under the canopy of larger trees, which provide partial shade. When grown indoors, it should be placed near a window that receives a few hours of direct sunlight in the morning or afternoon. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves, so it is essential to shield the plant as needed.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Pandiaka cylindrica is between 18 and 27 degrees Celsius (65 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures during the winter months, but it must be protected from frost. Avoid placing the plant in drafty areas as this can cause temperature fluctuations that can harm the plant.
Soil Requirements
Pandiaka cylindrica is not particular about soil type but thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. An ideal soil mixture should be composed of equal parts of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. This mixture will ensure adequate drainage, aeration, and moisture retention. It is also critical to ensure the soil's pH level is slightly acidic, ranging between 6.0 and 6.5.
Water Requirements
Like most tropical plants, Pandiaka cylindrica loves water but is sensitive to overwatering. Only water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. When watering, make sure to saturate the soil thoroughly and allow any excess water to drain away completely. Avoid getting water on the leaves as it can cause fungal diseases and leaf rot. In the winter months, water the plant less frequently as it enters a dormant phase.
Fertilizer Requirements
To encourage healthy growth and vibrant blooms, Pandiaka cylindrica requires regular fertilization. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season, from spring to fall. Always dilute the fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid burning the plant's roots. Reduce fertilization frequency in the winter to allow the plant to rest.
By following these growth conditions, you can grow a thriving Pandiaka cylindrica plant that will provide you with beautiful blooms for years to come.
Cultivation Methods for Pandiaka cylindrica Hook.f. ex Baker & C.B.Clarke
Before planting the Pandiaka cylindrica Hook.f. ex Baker & C.B.Clarke, ensure that the location is well-drained and sunny. The soil should be rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. The plant is usually propagated through seedlings or stem cuttings.
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It can tolerate some dryness, but avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
Plant Pandiaka cylindrica Hook.f. ex Baker & C.B.Clarke in its permanent place when it has established roots and a good leafy framework.
Watering Needs
Pandiaka cylindrica Hook.f. ex Baker & C.B.Clarke needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant when the soil starts to dry out. However, avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Test the soil with a finger or a moisture meter to determine whether it needs watering. During the dry season, water twice a week.
Fertilization
The plant requires fertilization every two weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer for flowering plants.
Alternatively, apply organic fertilizers such as manure, compost, or bone meal to improve soil fertility. Apply fertilizers sparingly to avoid salt accumulation, which can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pandiaka cylindrica Hook.f. ex Baker & C.B.Clarke requires minimal pruning and maintenance. Prune off dead and damaged leaves or flowers to improve air circulation and aesthetics.
Use clean and sharp pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases. Prune the plant during the dry season when there is less humidity.
Propagation of Pandiaka cylindrica Hook.f. ex Baker & C.B.Clarke
Pandiaka cylindrica Hook.f. ex Baker & C.B.Clarke is a beautiful decorative plant that can be propagated by several methods including:
Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the preferred method for Pandiaka cylindrica Hook.f. ex Baker & C.B.Clarke. The seeds should be collected from mature plants during the flowering season. The seeds should be sown in a well-drained soil mix in a warm, shady location. The seeds will germinate in about 2 weeks, and seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once they are about 3 inches tall.
Cutting
The plant can also be propagated through cuttings. Take cuttings from new growth that is still tender and semi-hard. Cuttings that are about 4 inches long should be dipped in rooting hormone, and placed in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment and kept moist until the roots develop. Once the roots are established, the new plants can be transplanted into individual pots.
Division
Pandiaka cylindrica Hook.f. ex Baker & C.B.Clarke can be propagated by division. Divide the plant when it is actively growing. Dig up the entire plant and gently separate the roots and stem into sections. Each section should have roots and shoots. Transplant each section into an individual pot and keep them moist until they establish new growth.
Disease Management
Pandiaka cylindrica is susceptible to fungal, bacterial, and viral infections. One of the most common diseases that affect the plant is the Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium solani. Symptoms of the disease usually appear on the leaves, starting from the lower portion and progressing upwards. The infected leaves wilt, turn yellow prematurely and eventually die. To manage the disease, it is essential to remove and destroy the infected plants and soil. Crop rotation is also a crucial strategy, as it helps in reducing the buildup of the pathogen in the soil.
Another disease that affects the plant is the bacterial leaf blight caused by Xanthomonas campestris. The disease is characterized by the formation of water-soaked lesions on the leaves, which later turn brown. The infected leaves may also become curled and distorted. Management of bacterial leaf blight includes removing and destroying the infected plant debris and providing adequate spacing between plants to promote ventilation and reduce humidity levels in the plant canopy.
Pest Management
Several pests attack Pandiaka cylindrica, including the mealybugs, thrips, aphids, and spider mites. Mealybugs are the most destructive pests, as they suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and reduction in yield. The infestation is characterized by the appearance of cotton-like masses on the leaves and stem. To manage mealybugs, it is vital to eliminate weeds that harbor the pests and use insecticides such as neem oil or systemic ones to control the infestation.
Thrips and aphids attack the plants at their early growth stages, leading to leaf curling and wilting. The pests also facilitate the transmission of viral diseases to the plant. The management of thrips and aphids involves the use of insecticides and removal of infected plants from the field.
Lastly, spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the underside of the leaves of Pandiaka cylindrica, leading to yellowing, spotting, and dropping of leaves. The management of spider mites is through improving the humidity levels in the plant canopy, use of insecticidal soaps, and spraying with a high-pressure water spray to dislodge the pests.
