Introduction
Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen subsp. laxiflora (Benth.) Yakovlev, also known as Afrormosia, is a tree species belonging to the Fabaceae family. It is native to tropical regions of Africa, particularly in Angola, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Gabon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Tanzania.
General Appearance
The tree can grow up to 45 meters tall and 120 cm in diameter, with a straight trunk and a gray-brown bark. The leaves are alternate, pinnate, with 5-10 leaflets, and can grow up to 20 cm long. The flowers are yellowish-white, fragrant, and arranged in axillary clusters. The fruit is a flattened, woody pod that can be up to 20 cm long and 2 cm wide, containing up to six seeds.
Common Names
Pericopsis angolensis has several common names, depending on the region. In English, it is commonly known as Afrormosia. In other African countries, it is referred to as kokrodua, assamala, m'bando, kokrodua, mobando, and more.
Uses
The wood of Pericopsis angolensis is highly valued for its durability, hardness, and resistance to decay and insect attacks. It is often used in high-quality furniture, flooring, paneling, and veneer. It is also used for construction, boat building, and musical instruments. The bark and roots have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, malaria, and respiratory infections. In addition, the tree is used for food and animal fodder, and its seeds are a source of oil.
Light Requirements
Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen subsp. laxiflora (Benth.) Yakovlev requires moderate to high light intensity for optimal growth. It thrives in areas with full sun exposure and can tolerate partial shade. Inadequate light can lead to stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers a warm and humid climate, with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 28°C. It is sensitive to frost and cannot tolerate temperatures below 10°C. Extreme temperature variations can cause stress to the plant and affect its growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen subsp. laxiflora (Benth.) Yakovlev grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. Ideally, the pH of the soil should be between 5.5 to 6.5. It cannot thrive in compacted or waterlogged soils as it affects nutrient absorption and root development.
Cultivation Methods
Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen subsp. laxiflora (Benth.) Yakovlev, commonly known as African Teak, requires a warm, humid, and well-drained environment to grow best. The plant mainly grows in the tropical regions of Africa, and it prefers full sunlight or partial shade. It can grow up to 45 meters tall and 120 cm in diameter at breast height.
The plant can be propagated through seeds that should be collected from mature trees. The seeds should be planted in damp, fertile soil, and it takes about 10 to 14 days to germinate. The plant can also be propagated by cuttings, but it is less common. Most importantly, the seedlings need to be protected from strong winds and direct sunlight, especially within their first year of life.
Watering Needs
African Teak requires moderate watering during the growing season. A mature tree needs about 50 to 75 liters of water per week, which is equivalent to 5 to 7 watering cans. However, young trees need less water and should be watered regularly, especially in dry weather. In places where rainfall is scarce, the plant must be irrigated as frequent watering aids the plant in the growth process.
Fertilization
The plant also requires regular fertilization. A balanced N-P-K fertilizer should be applied once every three months to encourage growth and maintain overall health. However, the use of organic fertilizers is recommended as they are a better alternative to chemical fertilizers because they are less likely to damage the plant. A good mix of compost or manure is ideal for African Teak as it provides nutrients and improves soil quality.
Pruning
Pruning African Teak is essential to maintain its health and shape. It is necessary to prune the lower branches that are dead, damaged, or diseased. Pruning encourages new growth as it increases light penetration and improves airflow, reducing the occurrence of diseases and pests. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, between June and August.
It is also worth mentioning that African Teak is a protected tree species in some African countries, and its exploitation is restricted. It is crucial that the cultivation and care of this plant be carried out only where it is legal, following local guidelines to avoid endangering it.
Propagation of Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora
There are various methods of propagating Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora. Some of the propagation methods are:
Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of propagating Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora. The seeds should be collected from healthy and mature trees. The seeds should be cleaned and dried in the shade for a few days. The seeds can be sown immediately or stored in a cool, dry place for later use. The seeds should be sown in well-prepared soil with good drainage. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 3-4 cm and covered with soil. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually takes 10-14 days.
Cutting
Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora can be propagated by stem cuttings. The stem cuttings should be taken from healthy and mature trees. The cuttings should be 20-30 cm long and should have at least 3-4 nodes. The bottom node of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-prepared soil mixture. The soil mixture should be moist but not waterlogged. The cutting should be kept in a shaded area and misted regularly to maintain humidity. The roots usually develop in 4-6 weeks.
Air-layering
Air-layering is another method of propagating Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora. The bark of a healthy and mature tree should be removed from a small section of the stem. The exposed area should be wrapped in sphagnum moss and covered with plastic to maintain humidity. The moss should be moistened regularly. Roots usually develop in 6-8 weeks. Once the roots have developed, the stem can be cut below the air-layer and planted in a well-prepared soil mixture.
Disease and Pest Management for Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen subsp. laxiflora (Benth.) Yakovlev
Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora is a tree that is susceptible to several diseases and pests. The management of these diseases and pests is essential for the health and productivity of the plant. Below are some common diseases and pests that attack Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes leaf spots and defoliation in Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora. It can be managed by applying fungicides at the first sign of infestation.
2. Root Rot: Root rot is caused by a soil-borne fungus. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. The disease can be managed by preventing water-logged soils and keeping the soil well-drained. Fungicides can also be applied to manage root rot.
3. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by fungi that thrive in humid conditions. It causes the yellowing and brown spots on the leaves of Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora. The disease can be managed by using fungicides and avoiding overhead watering.
Common Pests
1. Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the sap of Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora. They cause yellowing, drying, and dropping of leaves. The pests can be managed by applying miticides and keeping the leaves of the plant clean.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora. They cause curling of leaves, stunted growth, and yellowing of leaves. The pests can be managed by applying insecticides and keeping the plant free from dust.
3. Scale insects: Scale insects are pests that suck the sap from the stems and leaves of Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora. They cause yellowing, wilting, and death of the plant. The pests can be managed by applying insecticides and keeping the plant free from dust and debris.
It is essential to monitor Pericopsis angolensis subsp. laxiflora for signs of disease and pest infestation regularly. Early detection and management of these problems are crucial to prevent losses and ensure plant productivity.
