Overview
Pentadesma leptonema Pierre, also known as the djansang tree, is a plant species in the family Clusiaceae. It is native to West and Central Africa, particularly in the countries of Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, and Ivory Coast.
Common Names
In addition to djansang tree, Pentadesma leptonema is also referred to as Essessang, Wama, and Osom
Appearance
The djansang tree can grow up to 30 meters high, with a crown that can measure up to 10 meters in diameter. It has grayish-brown bark with vertical fissures and is made up of straight branches. The leaves are oval and pointed, measuring 8-15 cm in length and 4-7 cm in width. The flower is small and yellowish-green in color, with rounded petals and a diameter of about 5 mm. The fruit is a woody capsule that is triangular in shape, with a length of about 8 cm and a width of about 4 cm. It contains several seeds that are about 2 cm in length and 1 cm in width.
Uses
The djansang tree has diverse medicinal uses, and nearly all parts of the plant have been used in traditional medicine. The bark and leaves are used to treat various conditions, including fever, wounds, and gastrointestinal disorders. The fruit pulp is used as a laxative, while the seeds are used to treat hypertension and diabetes. Additionally, the wood of the djansang tree is used for construction, and the fruit capsules and seeds are used in cosmetics.
Light Requirements:
Pentadesma leptonema Pierre prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some shade, but prolonged low light conditions can stunt its growth and prevent flowering.
Temperature Requirements:
Pentadesma leptonema Pierre thrives best in warm temperatures between 18°C to 27°C (64°F to 81°F). It can also tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it must not drop below 10°C (50°F) since it can damage the plant. On the other hand, excessive heat can cause the soil to dry out faster, which can kill the plant.
Soil Requirements:
Pentadesma leptonema Pierre prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soils rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH between 5.5 to 7.5. Soil that is too compact and heavy can cause water to accumulate around the roots, leading to rotting. It is advisable to use a potting mix composed of a combination of peat moss, perlite, and sand.
Cultivation Methods
Pentadesma leptonema Pierre is a tropical tree that grows best in warm and humid climates. It can be grown both in the ground and in containers, although it prefers well-draining, loamy soil.
The plant should be placed in a spot with indirect sunlight, and its temperature should not fall below 50°F. When planting in the ground, make sure to dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root system and at least as deep. For container planting, choose a pot with drainage holes.
Watering Needs
Pentadesma leptonema Pierre requires regular watering during the growing season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, and the plant should never be allowed to dry out completely. Watering frequency may need to be adjusted depending on the climate and humidity of the area.
During the dormant season, the plant can be watered less frequently, but the soil should never become completely dry. Overwatering should also be avoided, as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Pentadesma leptonema Pierre should be fertilized during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every four to six weeks. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for best results.
Organic fertilizers such as compost or manure can also be used and applied once or twice a season. Be sure not to apply fertilizers too close to the trunk.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Pentadesma leptonema Pierre, but it can be done to shape the plant or remove dead or damaged branches. Pruning should be done in the early spring before new growth appears.
When pruning, use sharp and clean pruning shears to make clean cuts. Remove any diseased or dead branches first, then make any shaping cuts as desired. Avoid removing more than one-third of the plant's overall growth at one time.
Propagation of Pentadesma leptonema Pierre
Pentadesma leptonema Pierre, commonly referred to as the Congo pump, is a tropical rainforest tree native to Central and West Africa. The tree produces large, brown, woody fruits that split open when ripe to reveal five seeds with a high oil content.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate Pentadesma leptonema. Freshly collected seeds should be sown immediately, as they have a short viability period. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix, with a temperature range of 25-30°C. Germination can occur 2-6 weeks after sowing, and the seedling will begin to form a taproot. The seedlings should be transplanted to individual pots 4-6 weeks after germination.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is also a suitable method of propagating Pentadesma leptonema. Semi-hardwood stems measuring 10-15 cm, with at least two nodes, can be collected from the parent plant. The basal ends should be dipped in a rooting hormone, then planted into a substrate of peat and perlite. The cuttings should be placed in a shaded area and misted regularly. Rooting may take 3-6 weeks, and the newly rooted plants should be transplanted to individual pots.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting can be used to propagate Pentadesma leptonema onto rootstocks of related species, such as Pentadesma butyracea. This method requires some expertise and is not commonly used in commercial nurseries. The scion and rootstock should be of similar diameters for a successful graft. Grafting is typically done during the rainy season, and rooted grafts can be transferred to individual polybags 2-3 months after grafting.
Disease Management
Pentadesma leptonema Pierre is susceptible to several diseases, which can significantly reduce its yield and quality. Some of the common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Leaf spot disease: This fungal disease causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves, leading to premature defoliation. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves, improve air circulation, and use fungicides.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes dark lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruits. Prune the affected parts and discard them, and apply fungicides to control the disease.
- Root rot: This fungal disease causes the plant to wilt, turn yellow, and eventually die. To prevent this disease, avoid overwatering and improve soil drainage. Apply fungicides early in the infection to control the disease.
Pest Management
Pentadesma leptonema Pierre is also susceptible to pest infestations, which can reduce its yield and quality. Some of the common pests that affect this plant include:
- Mealybugs: These sucking insects cause yellowing and curling of leaves by feeding on the sap. You can control mealybug infestation by removing and destroying infected parts, using insecticidal soap, or predatory insects.
- Mites: These tiny insects feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and curling of leaves. You can control mite infestation by improving humidity levels or using acaricides.
- Caterpillars: These chewing insects feed on the leaves, leading to defoliation. You can prevent caterpillar infestation by using insecticides or natural predators.
