General Appearance of Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham
Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham is a medium-sized tree that belongs to the Chrysobalanaceae family. It measures between 10 to 30 meters in height, possesses a buttressed trunk whose diameter is approximately 1 meter, and has a dense crown that forms a spherical shape. The bark of the tree is dark brown and has a rough, scaly texture. The leaves exhibit an oblong shape and have a leathery texture with a glossy top surface.
Origin of Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham
Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham is indigenous to Africa and can primarily be found in Tanzania and Kenya's coastal regions. Its habitat consists of lowland and upland rainforests, as well as riverine and mangrove forests. The tree species prefers well-drained soils, and it is resilient to moderate drought conditions.
Common Names of Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham
The tree species possesses various common names across different African regions, some of which include Msalagala (Swahili), Muhundi (Giriama), Msonobari (Digo), Ndegi (Pokomo), Mbuyu-mkavu (Kamba), and Kibuyu (Chaga).
Uses of Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham
The tree species is believed to have numerous medicinal properties and has been commonly used in traditional medicine across Africa. Different parts of the tree, including the bark, roots, and leaves, are used to treat various diseases such as diarrhea, pneumonia, skin diseases, and sexually transmitted infections.
Additionally, the tree provides timber, which is used for building, furniture, and carvings. The fruit of the Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii tree is edible and is utilized in making jams and jellies. The leaves and twigs of the tree provide forage for domestic animals, and the tree is also admired for its ornamental value.
Light Requirements
Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii requires full sunlight for optimal growth and development. The plant can tolerate some shade, but it may affect the overall size and fruit production.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to tropical regions with an average temperature range of 24-30°C. Therefore, it prefers warm to hot temperatures and high humidity. Temperatures should not drop below 18°C or exceed 35°C as it may negatively impact growth.
Soil Requirements
Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. The plant can tolerate a range of soil textures, but it prefers sandy loam to clay loam soils. The plant is sensitive to waterlogging, and therefore, the soil must have good drainage.
Cultivation methods
The Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham, commonly known as the African nutmeg, grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in humus and organic matter. This plant prefers a warm and humid climate and requires a lot of sunlight to grow. The best time to transplant this plant is during the rainy season when the soil is moist.
Watering needs
The African nutmeg requires moderate watering. During the growing season, it should be watered regularly, every other day. However, care should be taken not to overwater the plants as this may lead to root rot. In the dry season, the plant will require more frequent watering, making sure not to let the soil dry out completely between watering sessions.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the African nutmeg plant's growth and development. Apply a balanced fertilizer every two months to provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and fruit production. The fertilizer should be applied to the base of the plant, and care should be taken not to over-fertilize as this may cause leaf drop and stunted growth.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential part of the African nutmeg plant's care routine. This should be done during the dry season when the plant is dormant. Pruning is essential to remove dead or diseased branches, promote air circulation to prevent fungal infections and improve the plant's overall shape. Make sure to use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham
Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham can be collected from mature fruits. The collected seeds can be sown in trays or directly in the ground. The trays or the soil must be kept moist for better germination rates. The seeds take around 1-3 months to germinate, depending on the conditions provided.
Vegetative Propagation
Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham can also be propagated through vegetative methods such as cutting and grafting.
Cutting: For cutting propagation, healthy stem cuttings of around 15-20 cm length are taken from the plant during the growing season. After removing leaves from the lower half of the stem, the cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings are kept in a warm and humid environment and must be watered regularly until roots develop.
Grafting: Grafting is a method of propagation where a healthy branch of the desired plant (scion) is attached to the rootstock of a different plant. For Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham, the rootstock of closely related species can be used for grafting. The scion should be chosen from healthy plants with desirable characteristics. The bark of the rootstock and scion are removed, and the cambium layers are joined. The joint is then wrapped with grafting tape, and the plant is kept in a warm and humid environment until the graft union has formed.
Disease Management
Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham is susceptible to several plant diseases. Here are some of the common ones and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and fruit. Symptoms include circular or irregular-shaped spots on leaves and brown sunken spots on fruit. To manage anthracnose, apply a fungicide containing chlorothalonil or copper hydroxide at 7-10 day intervals. Remove and destroy infected plant parts to prevent the spread of the disease.
Phytophthora Root Rot
This is a soil-borne disease caused by the fungus Phytophthora spp. It causes stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of leaves. Eventually, the plant dies. To manage this disease, ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering. Apply a fungicide containing metalaxyl or fosetyl-Al at recommended rates. Remove and destroy infected plants.
Pest Management
Here are some common pests that may affect Parinari excelsa Sabine subsp. holstii (Engl.) R.A.Graham and ways to manage them:
Mealybugs
These are small, white, cottony insects that suck sap from leaves, stems, and fruit. They excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which promotes the growth of sooty mold. To manage mealybugs, use a soft brush dipped in alcohol to remove them from the plant. Alternatively, apply an insecticide containing pyrethroids or neonicotinoids at recommended rates.
Scale Insects
These are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of plants. They suck sap and excrete honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold. To manage scale insects, use a soft brush dipped in alcohol to remove them from the plant. Alternatively, apply an insecticide containing imidacloprid or acephate at recommended rates.
Aphids
These are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They reproduce quickly and can cause wilting and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids, apply an insecticide containing malathion or neem oil at recommended rates. Alternatively, use a strong jet of water to dislodge them from the plant.
