Overview and Origin
Parkia bussei Harms, commonly known as African locust bean, is a deciduous perennial tree native to West Africa. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is a leguminous species. This plant is widely distributed in the tropical regions of Africa, from Senegal to Uganda. It is an essential agroforestry plant in the traditional farming systems of many West African countries due to its numerous uses.
Common Names
African locust bean has several common names depending on the region, including dawadawa, iru, néré, and soumbala. In English-speaking countries, it is commonly referred to as African locust bean, African mesquite, or wild locust bean. The Hausa people in West Africa affectionately refer to the plant as "dawadawa," which means "smelly fruit." This is because of the strong fragrance of the fruit and seeds.
Appearance
African locust bean is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20 meters high. The leaves are pinnate and can have 6 to 9 pairs of leaflets. The plant produces flowers that are yellowish-green, and the fruits are about 15 to 30 centimeters long and have a leathery brown pod. Each pod contains 6 to 12 seeds that are surrounded by a yellowish pulp. The seed is about 3 centimeters long, brown or dark brown in color, and has a hard outer shell.
Uses
African locust bean has been used for centuries in West African cuisine as a flavoring agent. The seeds and pulp are rich in various nutrients, including protein, fat, and carbohydrates. The plant extracts have been found to have excellent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which are useful for treating various ailments. The bark, leaves, and roots of the plant are also used for medicinal purposes.
In addition to its medicinal properties, African locust bean is an important tree in agroforestry systems. The leaves and fruits of the plant are used as a natural fertilizer, and the pods can be used as a source of firewood. The tree is also useful in soil conservation and erosion control due to its root system. The wood is durable and is used for making furniture, implements, and construction materials.
Growth Conditions for Parkia bussei Harms
Light Requirements: Parkia bussei Harms thrives in areas with bright, indirect sunlight. It is not advisable to expose the plant to direct sunlight as it may scorch the leaves. Thus, it is best to place the plant in an area with shades or filtered sunlight.
Temperature Requirements: This plant grows well in warm to hot temperatures ranging from 20 °C - 30 °C. It is essential to maintain the same temperature throughout the day. Thus, it is best to keep the plant in a temperature-controlled room, away from any cold drafts.
Soil Requirements: Parkia bussei Harms grows best in well-draining and fertile soil. The soil must be loose, allowing proper aeration and good water drainage. It is necessary to ensure that the soil does not get waterlogged as it may lead to root rot. It is recommended to add organic matter such as compost to improve the soil's nutrient retention capacity.
Water Requirements: It is advisable to water the plant once a week or when the top layer of soil feels dry. Overwatering may lead to root rot, and underwatering may cause the leaves to wilt. Thus, it is essential to maintain the correct balance between watering.
Fertilizer Requirements: Parkia bussei Harms is a heavy feeder and would benefit from regular fertilization once in every two weeks. Liquid fertilizer or slow-release granules can be used to feed the plant. It is essential to dilute the fertilizer before feeding the plant and avoid over-fertilization.
Humidity Requirements: This plant prefers humid environments. Thus it is best to keep the plant in an area with good air circulation. Misting the leaves a few times a week can also help maintain the humidity level required for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Parkia bussei Harms, also known as African locust bean, is a tropical tree that thrives in moist soils and humid climates. It is commonly found in West and Central Africa, and Nigeria is one of the countries that cultivate it on a large scale. The plant is susceptible to frost; therefore, it cannot grow in temperate regions. It requires plenty of sunlight for growth and typically grows up to 25 meters in height.
Watering Needs
African locust bean is a tree that requires regular watering during the growing season. It prefers soils with good drainage and can tolerate a wide range of soil pH, ranging from 4.5 to 8.0. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogging, and over-watering can lead to root rot. During dry seasons, the plant requires frequent watering to support its growth.
Fertilization
Parkia bussei Harms is a moderately heavy feeder, and it requires regular fertilization for optimal growth. Organic fertilizers are preferable, and they should be well-balanced, containing significant amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilization should take place during the wet season when the plant is actively growing.
Pruning
The African locust bean tree does not require extensive pruning. However, pruning can be done to remove any dead or diseased branches. It may also be done to maintain the tree's shape or size. Pruning should be done during the dry season when the plant is dormant to minimize damage and stress.
Propagation of Parkia bussei Harms
Parkia bussei Harms, also known as African locust bean, is a tropical plant commonly found in West Africa. It is grown for its edible seeds, which are used in traditional dishes, and also for its timber.
There are different methods to propagate Parkia bussei Harms, such as:
Seed propagation
One of the most common propagation methods for Parkia bussei Harms is by seed. The seeds should be collected when they are mature from healthy trees and then planted as soon as possible. Before planting the seeds, it is recommended to soak them in water for 24 hours, as this can help improve germination rates.
The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil in a nursery or a pot, covered lightly with soil, and kept in a warm and humid place. It can take up to three weeks for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings have grown to a height of 10-15 cm, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Parkia bussei Harms. Semi-hardwood cuttings (6-8 cm long) should be taken from healthy trees during the growing season. The lower leaves of the cuttings should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil.
The cuttings should be covered with a plastic bag or placed in a propagation tray to maintain the desired humidity levels (around 80-90%). It can take up to six weeks for the cuttings to develop roots. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Air layering propagation
Air layering can also be used to propagate Parkia bussei Harms. This method involves making a small cut in the tree's bark, wrapping the wound with a moist growing medium (such as sphagnum moss), and covering it with a plastic bag or foil to maintain humidity levels. After a few months, roots will develop in the growing medium.
The rooted portion can then be cut from the mother tree and planted in its permanent location.
In conclusion, Parkia bussei Harms can be propagated by seed, cuttings, and air layering. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the best one to use will depend on the grower's needs and available resources.
Disease and Pest Management for Parkia bussei Harms
Parkia bussei Harms, commonly known as the African locust bean, is a leguminous plant that can be affected by various diseases and pests. Here are some common problems that may arise and tips on how to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes circular, sunken lesions on leaves, stems, and pods. The best way to prevent this disease is by avoiding overhead watering, ensuring proper spacing between plants, and regularly removing infected parts. Fungicides containing copper or sulfur can be used to control severe cases.
Powdery Mildew: This disease is characterized by a white, powdery coating that forms on leaves and stems. It can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected parts. Fungicides containing sulfur or neem oil can help control the disease.
Brown Spot: This is a bacterial disease that causes brown spots on leaves and pods. The infected plants should be removed and disposed of, and crop rotation should be employed to prevent the disease from spreading.
Pests
Bean Leaf Beetle: These pests feed on the plant’s leaves, causing severe defoliation. They can be controlled by removing weeds that serve as their habitat, employing crop rotation, and using insecticides containing pyrethrin or neem oil.
Aphids: These tiny insects suck sap from the plant’s leaves, causing them to wilt and yellow. Regular inspection of the plant can prevent aphid infestation. Insecticides containing neem oil, soap or pyrethrin can be used to control aphids.
Thrips: These pests cause small, silver spots on leaves. They can be controlled by removing weeds and using sticky traps. Insecticides containing neem oil, spinosad, or pyrethrin can also help.
Prevention is always the best solution when it comes to managing diseases and pests in Parkia bussei Harms. Regular inspection of the plant and proper maintenance can go a long way in keeping it healthy and free of diseases and pests.
