Origin
Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen subsp. subtomentosa (De Wild.) Yakovlev, also known as African teak, originates from tropical Africa and grows in the dense, moist forests of Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Nigeria, Tanzania, and Uganda.
Common Names
African teak, Afrormosia, Kokrodua, Assamela, Obang, Doussie, Omena, and Bokonge are the various names given to Pericopsis angolensis in different regions and cultures.
Uses
Pericopsis angolensis is known for its remarkable strength, durability, and resistance to termites and fungal attacks. The wood of this tree is an excellent choice for furniture making, flooring, decking, and other high-end construction projects. Its rich texture and deep brown to reddish-brown color make it a highly sought-after timber in international markets.
In traditional African medicine, Pericopsis angolensis has been used to treat a wide range of health issues, including fever, headaches, and stomach complaints. Besides that, the bark of the tree is used for tanning animal skins.
General Appearance
The African teak is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 50 meters in height and 150cm in diameter. Its crown is usually broad, with a greyish bark that has shallow fissures. The leaves are 10 to 25 cm long, with a glossy dark green appearance and a leathery texture.
The flowering season of Pericopsis angolensis is from June to August. The tree produces panicles of creamy-white flowers that are followed by flat, round or elliptical-shaped seed pods. The seeds, which are enclosed in a thick, woody shell, are dispersed by the wind.
Light Requirements
Pericopsis angolensis subsp. subtomentosa prefers to grow in a place where it can receive partial shade. So, the ideal location would be under a tree canopy where the plant would receive filtered sunlight. The plant may also adjust to full sunlight, but it may require more water to withstand the heat during the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in a tropical climate, and temperatures below 20°C can affect its growth and survival. The ideal temperature for P. angolensis subsp. subtomentosa is around 24-28°C. It is essential to note that frost can kill the plant, given that it does not have any resistance to low temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in deep, well-drained soils with a pH ranging from slightly alkaline to acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it does not thrive in waterlogged or poor soils. Additionally, adding organic matter to the soil can improve its fertility and enhance the plant's growth rate.
Cultivation of Pericopsis angolensis
Pericopsis angolensis is a tropical tree that can be grown either from seed or cuttings. The plant requires a warm humid environment with temperatures ranging between 20-30°C. It grows best in sandy or loamy soils that have good drainage and are rich in nutrients.
Propagation through cuttings is recommended as it provides a genetically identical offspring to the parent plant. Cuttings should be about 30 cm long and should be taken from a healthy parent plant. It is important to dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone before planting them in the soil.
Watering needs of Pericopsis angolensis
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. Watering should be done once a week, ensuring that the soil is moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering may lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
It is essential to water the plant adequately during the first year after planting to support root growth. After the first year, the plant can tolerate seasonal drought as it has developed a deeper root system that can access moisture from deeper soil layers.
Fertilization of Pericopsis angolensis
The plant requires regular fertilization to support its growth and development. It is recommended to use organic fertilizers that slowly release nutrients into the soil. Application of fertilizer should be done once a year, during the rainy season when the plant is actively growing.
It is important to apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant and not on the stem or leaves. Over-fertilization may lead to salt accumulation in the soil, which can be harmful to the plant.
Pruning of Pericopsis angolensis
Pericopsis angolensis requires minimal pruning. It is only necessary to remove dead or diseased wood on the plant. Maintenance pruning may be done to remove any crossing branches and to shape the plant.
It is recommended to carry out pruning during the rainy season when the plant is actively growing. It is also important to use clean pruning tools to avoid the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen subsp. subtomentosa (De Wild.) Yakovlev
Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen subsp. subtomentosa (De Wild.) Yakovlev, commonly known as African teak, is a tree species that is widely distributed in tropical Africa. The plant is highly valued for its durable wood and is commonly used in construction, boat building, and furniture making. The following are some of the propagation methods used for this plant:
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating African teak is through seed propagation. Seeds should be collected from mature trees and sown immediately after collection. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours prior to planting to soften the hard seed coat. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist. Germination will occur in 7-14 days depending on the conditions provided. After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted into containers.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings are another method of propagating Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen subsp. subtomentosa (De Wild.) Yakovlev. Hardwood cuttings should be taken from mature trees during the dormant season. The cuttings should be 15-20 cm long and have at least three nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and rooting hormone applied to the cut end. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist. Rooting will occur in 2-3 months depending on the conditions provided. After rooting, the cuttings can be transplanted into containers.
Air-layering propagation
Air-layering is a propagation method that involves inducing roots to form on a stem while it is still attached to the mother plant. This method is useful when propagating difficult-to-root plants such as African teak. To air-layer, select a healthy stem and make a cut below a node. Apply rooting hormone to the cut end and wrap it with damp sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and tie it securely in place. The roots will form in 2-3 months, and the stem can be cut and transplanted.
Propagation of African teak can be challenging, but with the right conditions, it is possible to successfully propagate this valuable plant using seeds, cuttings, and air-layering methods.
Disease and Pest Management for Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen subsp. subtomentosa (De Wild.) Yakovlev
Pericopsis angolensis (Baker) Meeuwen subsp. subtomentosa (De Wild.) Yakovlev, commonly known as African Teak or Mukusi, is a valuable and highly sought-after timber species. Like all living organisms, it is susceptible to pests and diseases that can cause significant damage and may even kill the plant if left unmanaged. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Pericopsis angolensis and ways to manage them effectively:
Diseases
Heartrot Fungi: Heartrot fungi cause decay in the heartwood of the tree, leading to reduced structural integrity, reduced tree lifespan, and weight loss. Prune affected branches and remove the infected wood as soon as possible to prevent the spread of the fungus. Ensure good drainage around the tree to avoid waterlogging, which promote fungal growth, and keep the area around the tree free of debris to reduce the risk of infection.
Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that results in the formation of dead areas on the bark of the tree, often accompanied by oozing of sap. Prune the affected branches and avoid wounding the tree, as wounds provide entry points for fungal spores. Spray fungicides containing copper or mancozeb to control the disease.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes premature defoliation, stunted growth, and reduced plant vigor. Prune the affected branches, remove the fallen leaves and keep the area around the tree weed-free to encourage good air circulation and reduce fungal growth. Apply a fungicide containing mancozeb, chlorothalonil, or copper to control the disease.
Pests
Teak defoliator: Teak defoliator is a caterpillar that feeds on the leaves of the tree, leading to defoliation and reduced growth. Prune the affected branches and handpick the caterpillars if possible, or spray insecticides containing carbaryl, chlorpyrifos, or bifenthrin.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that suck sap from the leaves, causing yellowing, wilting, and reduced plant vigor. Occasionally spraying the tree with water to increase humidity and moisture can help control spider mites, or apply an insecticide containing carbaryl, bifenthrin, or malathion.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and deform. Prune the affected branches and apply an insecticide containing imidacloprid, acephate, or pyrethroids to control the aphids.
Regular inspection and monitoring of the plant can help detect early signs of pest infestation and disease, allowing for timely management. Insecticides and fungicides should be used in accordance with label instructions and local regulations to ensure safety and effectiveness.
