Origin
Pithecellobium obliquifoliolatum (De Wild.) J.Léonard, also known as the African monkey pod, is a species of flowering plant that is native to tropical Africa.
Common Names
Aside from African monkey pod, this plant is also known by several other common names including Giant thorn tree, False leadwood, Mbamba, and Mbambakofi.
Uses
The African monkey pod has several uses. The bark and leaves of the plant have medicinal properties which can be used to treat diarrhea, fever, and a host of other ailments. The leaves can also be used to treat wounds, while the bark is used to treat stomach ailments. The wood from this plant is also important and is used to make furniture, building material, and firewood. In addition, the tree is a source of food for various wildlife animals.
General Appearance
The African monkey pod can grow up to a height of 25 meters and has a broad canopy with a spread of 15-20 meters. The plant has an erect stem with a diameter of up to 70 cm and a gray-brown bark that is rough, peeling, and flaking. The leaves are bipinnate, with 2-6 pairs of pinnae and 13-27 leaflets. The leaflets are oblong and acute at the apex. The flower color ranges from creamy white to light green, and the fruit is a brown or reddish-brown pod that can reach up to 17 cm long and 5.5 cm wide.
Light Requirements
Pithecellobium obliquifoliolatum thrives in areas with high light intensity. The plant can tolerate partial shade, but it requires at least 4-5 hours of full sunlight daily for optimal growth. Shaded areas may cause stunted growth and reduced flowering or fruiting.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to tropical regions with average temperatures of 25-30°C. It requires warm temperatures, with the minimum temperature should not drop less than 18°C. Temperatures below 10°C may cause damage to the plant or even death. Due to its frost sensitivity, the plant cannot tolerate freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
For optimal growth, Pithecellobium obliquifoliolatum requires a well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Sandy loam or clay loam soil is preferable as they retain enough moisture for the plant but do not allow waterlogging, which may adversely affect the plant. The soil pH should be neutral, ideally between 6.5-7.5. To improve the soil's fertility, adding organic matter such as composted manure will be beneficial.
Cultivation Methods
The Pithecellobium obliquifoliolatum (De Wild.) J.Léonard plant requires well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It thrives in warm temperatures and partial shade, so it is best to plant it in a spot that receives indirect sunlight. It can be propagated through seeds that are soaked in warm water for 24 hours before planting in a pot. The plant should be watered regularly, and its growth can be helped with fertilization.
Watering Needs
The Pithecellobium obliquifoliolatum plant requires moderate watering and should be watered every five to seven days. Its water needs vary depending on the weather and the soil's moisture level. The plant should be watered early in the morning, and the soil should be allowed to dry out a bit between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot or fungal diseases, so it is essential to monitor the soil's moisture level and adjust watering accordingly.
Fertilization
The Pithecellobium obliquifoliolatum plant requires regular fertilization to provide it with nutrients for growth and healthy foliage. Fertilizers that are high in nitrogen, such as 10-10-10, are suitable for this plant's growth needs and can be used every three to six months. Fertilizer application should be done during the growing season, and excess fertilizer should be avoided to prevent soil buildup of harmful salts.
Pruning
The Pithecellobium obliquifoliolatum plant requires minimal pruning and should only be pruned to remove dead or damaged branches. Pruning should be done during the growing season, and the cuts should be made at a 45-degree angle to promote new growth. The plant's shape can be maintained by removing any branches that are growing in the wrong direction and trimming back any overgrown branches. It is best to avoid heavy pruning, as it can damage the plant and impair its growth.
Propagation of Pithecellobium obliquifoliolatum
Pithecellobium obliquifoliolatum can be propagated through a variety of methods including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and air layering.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Pithecellobium obliquifoliolatum can be collected from the tree during the fruiting season. The collected seeds should be cleaned and soaked in water overnight. The next day, the seeds can be sown in seed trays or in prepared nursery beds. The ideal time for sowing seeds is during the rainy season. To improve germination rates, seeds can be treated with a fungicide before sowing. Seedlings will emerge within 10-15 days and can be transplanted to individual pots after they reach a height of 5-6 inches.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken from Pithecellobium obliquifoliolatum during the growing season. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature branches and should be 6-8 inches in length. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting in a prepared potting mix. The cutting should be kept in a humid environment and watered regularly. Roots will develop within 4-6 weeks, and the cutting can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Air Layering
Air layering is a method of propagation that involves creating a slit in a mature stem and wrapping it in moist sphagnum moss. This will encourage the stem to produce roots at the point of contact with the moss. The moss should be kept moist and the aerial roots that develop should be treated with rooting hormone. After about 6-8 weeks, the rooted stem can be removed from the parent plant and transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Disease Management
One common disease that may affect Pithecellobium obliquifoliolatum is powdery mildew. This fungal disease presents itself as a white or grayish powdery substance on leaves, stems, and flowers. To control powdery mildew, remove any infected plant parts and improve the air circulation around the plant. Additionally, fungicidal sprays may be used to control the disease.
Another disease that may affect P. obliquifoliolatum is root rot. This disease is caused by a fungus that thrives in wet soil, which can cause the plant's roots to rot. To prevent root rot, improve the soil drainage around the plant and avoid overwatering. If root rot is present, replant the affected plant in new, well-draining soil.
Pest Management
One common pest that may affect P. obliquifoliolatum is the spider mite. Spider mites are tiny, hard-to-see pests that can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking its fluids. To manage spider mites, use a strong jet of water to wash them off the plant or apply insecticidal soap or oil.
Another pest that may affect P. obliquifoliolatum is the mealybug. These pests have a cottony appearance and can be found on the undersides of leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage mealybugs, remove any visible bugs by hand and apply insecticidal soap or oil. Additionally, introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings can help control the population.
