Overview
Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen forma brasseuriana (De Wild.) Brummitt, also known as African teak or muninga, is a species of flowering plant in the family Fabaceae and is native to tropical Africa.
Description
This tree species is notable for its large size and distinctive reddish-brown bark. It can reach heights of up to 45 meters and has a trunk diameter of up to 1.5 meters. The leaves of the Pericopsis angolensis are pinnate, with each leaf generally having 5-7 leaflets. The flowers of the tree are yellow and are borne in axillary racemes, while its fruit is a flat, woody pod measuring around 10-20 cm in length.
Common Names
Pericopsis angolensis has a variety of common names in different regions. In addition to African teak or muninga, it is also known as angoleiro, ebo, shina, assamela, kambala, kobe and mubala among others.
Uses
The wood of Pericopsis angolensis is highly valued for its strength, durability, and resistance to termite attack. It is widely used in the construction of furniture, flooring, and decking, as well as in boat building. The roots and bark of the tree have been used for medicinal purposes in traditional African medicine, including the treatment of stomach problems, fever, and rheumatism. The tree is also important in reforestation efforts due to its hardiness and ability to thrive in various types of soil and climate conditions.
Growth Conditions for Pericopsis angolensis forma brasseuriana
Pericopsis angolensis forma brasseuriana, also known as Brussel's pericopsis, is a tropical tree species that is commonly found in the African rainforest region. It can grow up to 40 meters tall and has a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 1 meter.
Light Requirements
Pericopsis angolensis forma brasseuriana requires full sunlight for optimal growth. They can tolerate partial shade in the understory but exposure to direct sunlight is essential for healthy growth and development. In areas with low light availability, the tree may become stunted and have distorted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The tree thrives in a warm and humid environment. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 24°C and 32°C, with an average temperature of 28°C considered ideal. Temperatures below 15°C can be lethal to the tree or lead to severe stunting of growth. In addition, the tree cannot endure frost or prolonged exposure to extreme heat.
Soil Requirements
Pericopsis angolensis forma brasseuriana grows well in deep, well-drained, and fertile soils. The soil should be rich in nutrients, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. In regions with high rainfall, soils may become waterlogged, which can harm the tree's growth. In addition, the tree is highly sensitive to soil compaction, which can restrict root growth and reduce nutrient absorption.
In conclusion, Pericopsis angolensis forma brasseuriana requires full sunlight, warm temperatures, and fertile, well-drained soils for healthy growth and development. Careful consideration should be given to ensure that growth conditions are optimal, as the tree is highly sensitive to changes in light, temperature, and soil conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen forma brasseuriana (De Wild.) Brummitt, commonly referred to as African Teak or Mukwa, is a difficult plant to cultivate due to its slow growth rate. However, it can be grown from seeds or cuttings, but the seeds are preferred for propagation. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing to hasten the germination process. The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter and should be planted in an area with partial to full sun exposure.
Watering Needs
The African Teak plant requires moderate watering, and it is essential to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Over-watering may lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. During the wet season, watering should be reduced, and in the dry season, watering should be increased to keep the soil moist.
Fertilization
Fertilization of the African Teak plant should be done when the plants are young and establishing. It would be best to use a slow-release fertilizer, which can gradually release the nutrients to the plant over an extended period. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers should be avoided because they can lead to excessive foliage growth, which can weaken the plant. Fertilization should be done at the beginning of the growing season, and the fertilizer should be applied in a ring around the base of the plant.
Pruning
African Teak plants generally do not require pruning. However, dead or damaged branches should be removed to keep the plant looking healthy and prevent the spread of diseases. Any pruning should be done in the dry season to avoid water loss from the plant. It is recommended to disinfect pruning tools before and after pruning to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation methods for Pericopsis angolensis forma brasseuriana
Pericopsis angolensis forma brasseuriana, commonly known as Afrormosia, is a tropical hardwood tree found in central and western Africa. This species is highly valued for its durability and resistance to decay, which make it a popular choice for furniture and construction. While P. angolensis forms seeds, it can take up to a year for them to germinate and establish a plant. Therefore, propagating through cuttings is a preferred method for faster and more reliable results.
Cuttings
Cuttings from mature, healthy trees are collected during the dormant season when the plant is not actively growing. The cuttings should be 10-15 cm long and contain both softwood and hardwood material. Softwood should be on the top and hardwood material on the bottom. This combination can ensure success in rooting. The cuttings should be processed as soon as possible to avoid dehydration and stored in a cool, dark place until planting.
Before planting, the base of each cutting should be treated with a rooting hormone, such as indolebutyric acid, for about 24 hours in order to promote the development of roots. In the planting site, a pre-made hole about 15 cm deep is dug in moist soil, and then the cutting is inserted into it. The cutting should be pressed firmly against the soil to ensure maximum contact. Once planted, it should be watered frequently and placed under a shade to reduce moisture loss through transpiration. The rooting process may take up to two months to complete.
After six months and successful rooting, the plant can be transplanted into its permanent location, preferably in moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. The plant should be watered regularly until it is firmly established. Under optimal conditions, P. angolensis can grow up to 45 meters tall, has a lifespan of over 200 years and becomes a productive tree at around 30 years of age.
Disease Management
Pericopsis angolensis forma brasseuriana is generally resistant to many diseases, but it may suffer from a few common leaf spot diseases such as cercospora leaf spot and anthracnose. Cercospora infections can be identified by small brown spots that appear on leaves, while anthracnose causes large brown spots with irregular shapes. Fungal spores typically spread through the air or water, making it important to remove any infected plant debris and ensure good air circulation around plants.
Fungicides can be used to prevent the onset of these diseases. To be effective, treatment must begin before symptoms appear. Copper-based fungicides and mancozeb are commonly used in preventing the diseases. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, as improper usage can damage the environment or the plant itself.
Pest Management
Pericopsis angolensis forma brasseuriana is also prone to infestations by browsing animals, ants and termites, as well as stem borers and leaf miners. Wood borers may also attack especially cut down logs and those left in the field for a long time before they are transported to the mill.
Avoid using broadleaf herbicides or any other harsh chemicals around the tree, as these can harm beneficial insects and other animals that help control pests. Insecticidal soap, which is a safe and organic option for controlling many pests, can be used. This soap works by suffocating insects while being harmless to the plant, humans, and the environment.
Another method is to encourage natural predators such as birds, ants, and ladybugs that feed on pests and their eggs. Regular trimming of underbrush around the tree can also help discourage rodent populations and prevent them from creating nesting sites around the tree.
It is important to monitor the tree regularly for any signs of infestation or disease and take immediate action to manage these issues. Early detection can help prevent the spread of pests and diseases. Overall, maintaining healthy growing conditions, proper watering, and fertilization can help keep pests and diseases at bay.
