Overview
Paxia calophylla Gilg ex G.Schellenb. is a plant species that belongs to the family Celastraceae. It is a small tree that is native to East and Central Africa. It is commonly known as the African boxwood, green heart, and mukutu.General Appearance
The African boxwood can grow up to 15 meters in height, and its trunk can reach up to 60 centimeters in diameter. The bark of the tree is grey and smooth, and its branches are brittle and thin. The leaves of the African boxwood are simple, glossy, and dark green, and they can grow up to 5 centimeters in length. The plant also produces small, yellowish-green flowers that are arranged in panicles. The fruit of the African boxwood is a globose capsule that contains red seeds.Uses
The African boxwood is a popular source of timber in East and Central Africa due to its hardness, durability, and resistance to decay. It is used for making furniture, flooring, and utensils. The plant is also known for its medicinal properties. The bark and roots of the African boxwood are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, malaria, and stomach problems. The leaves of the plant are used to make a decoction that is believed to relieve coughs and colds.Cultivation
The African boxwood is widely distributed throughout East and Central Africa, and it grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, savannas, and rocky areas. The plant prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soils. It can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or root suckers, and it grows relatively slowly. The African boxwood requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth.Growth conditions of Paxia calophylla Gilg ex G.Schellenb.
Paxia calophylla Gilg ex G.Schellenb. is a tree that grows in tropical African forests. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and can grow up to 30 meters high.
Light requirements:
Paxia calophylla requires full sunlight or partial shade to grow. It can survive in low light conditions but thrives in bright light. It is important to note that excessive light can damage its leaves and bark.
Temperature requirements:
The ideal temperature range for Paxia calophylla is between 20 and 30°C. It can tolerate higher temperatures, but it prefers moderate temperatures. The tree is sensitive to frost and cannot survive temperatures below 15°C.
Soil requirements:
Paxia calophylla grows in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5. The tree does not tolerate salt and requires adequate drainage to avoid waterlogging.
The growth rate of Paxia calophylla is slow, and it takes several years for it to reach maturity. The tree is susceptible to pests and diseases, which can affect its growth and survival. Regular watering, fertilization, and pest control can help maintain its health and promote growth.
Cultivation Methods
Paxia calophylla Gilg ex G.Schellenb. is a plant that thrives in damp, shaded environments. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 18°C to 25°C. It can be grown in pots or planted in garden beds, provided the soil is kept moist at all times. This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is important to ensure that the plant is not exposed to direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves and cause damage to the plant.
Watering Needs
Watering this plant is essential, and care must be taken not to let it dry out. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, as waterlogging can lead to root rot. Watering should be done once a week, and more frequently during the hot summer months.
Fertilization
Paxia calophylla Gilg ex G.Schellenb. benefits from regular fertilization. Fertilizers rich in nitrogen and potassium should be used, but care should be taken not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to burnt roots. Fertilization should be done once every three months during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for this plant. Dead or damaged leaves should be removed, and care should be taken not to damage healthy leaves. Pruning should be done at the start of the growing season to encourage new growth. Regular pruning also helps to maintain the plant shape and distribute nutrients evenly.
Propagation of Paxia calophylla Gilg ex G.Schellenb.
Paxia calophylla Gilg ex G.Schellenb., commonly known as the African tulip tree, is a flowering plant native to Africa. It grows up to 25 meters high and has a pyramid-shaped canopy with glossy green leaves and showy reddish-orange flowers. Paxia calophylla can be propagated by two main methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds are the primary method of propagation for Paxia calophylla. Mature seeds are collected from the tree during the fruiting season. The seeds require no special treatment and can be sown immediately. It is recommended that they be planted in a well-draining soil mix in containers that are large enough to allow for the development of roots. The seedlings must be kept in a shaded environment to protect them from the harsh sun until the root system is well-established. Once the plant is well-established, it can be transferred to a permanent location.
Vegetative propagation
Paxia calophylla can also be propagated vegetatively. Cuttings taken from mature branches can be used to grow new plants. The cuttings are dipped in rooting hormone and planted in soil. The cuttings must be kept in a humid environment with a constant temperature until they form roots. The new growth will emerge from the cuttings and form a new plant. Vegetative propagation is useful for maintaining the desirable characteristics of a specific cultivar.
Disease Management for Paxia Calophylla Gilg ex G.Schellenb.
Like other plants, Paxia Calophylla Gilg ex G.Schellenb. can also be affected by different diseases, both fungal and bacterial. Some of the common diseases that might affect this plant include:
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes small, round spots on the leaves. The spots may be brown or black, with yellow or brown halos. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected plant parts, avoid overhead irrigation, and apply fungicides according to the label instructions.
- Anthracnose: This is another fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and fruits of the plant. It causes sunken spots or lesions, which may turn brown and dry. To manage this disease, prune and destroy the infected plant parts, avoid overhead irrigation, and apply fungicides according to the label instructions.
- Bacterial Blight: This is a bacterial disease that causes water-soaked lesions on the leaves, stems, and flowers. The lesions may turn brown or black and cause the affected parts to wilt. To manage this disease, prune and destroy the infected plant parts, avoid overhead irrigation, and apply copper-based bactericides according to the label instructions.
Pest Management for Paxia Calophylla Gilg ex G.Schellenb.
In addition to diseases, Paxia Calophylla Gilg ex G.Schellenb. can also be attacked by different pests, including insects and mites. Some of the common pests that might affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant. They can cause stunted growth, distorted leaves, and yellowing. To manage this pest, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the aphids, introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the label instructions.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny pests that feed on the plant's juices, causing yellowing and a mottled appearance. They also produce webbing on the leaves and stems. To manage this pest, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to remove the mites, introduce natural predators like predatory mites, or apply insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil according to the label instructions.
- Scale Insects: These are small, immobile insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems, sucking the sap from the plant. They can cause yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop. To manage this pest, prune and destroy the heavily-infested plant parts, introduce natural predators like parasitic wasps, or apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap according to the label instructions.
