Overview
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum (Engl.) Cufod. is a plant native to Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Somalia. It is a member of the Pittosporum family and belongs to the flowering plant group Angiosperms.
Common Names
The plant has several common names including Ethiopian Pittosporum, Abyssinian Pittosporum, and Fulvous Pittosporum. Additionally, it is called "Hanza" in Ethiopia, which means "nail" due to the shape of its fruit.
General Appearance
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree or shrub. Its height can range from 3 to 14 meters, depending on the growing conditions. The plant has a single or multiple trunks, with a crown that is broad and rounded. The bark is brown and smooth, while the leaves are alternate, glabrous, and leathery with an oblong shape. The flowers are small and yellowish-green, and they are borne in terminal clusters. The fruit, called a capsule, is ovoid and papery, containing many small seeds. The plant's general appearance is lush, and it has an aesthetically pleasing look, making it popular in landscaping and gardening.
Uses
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum is used in traditional medicine, serving as a remedy for different ailments such as respiratory disorders, fever, and gastrointestinal problems. The plant is thought to have antihistamine and antispasmodic properties, helping to relieve coughs and spasms. It is also used as a purgative and has astringent properties that help in the treatment of skin problems. Additionally, the bark and leaves are used for making ropes and baskets, and the fruit is used to make a type of snuff called "Hanza tobacco."
Light Requirements
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum (Engl.) Cufod. thrives well under full sunlight or partial shade. It can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from bright direct sunlight to light shade. However, it is best to avoid exposing the plant to long periods of intense sunlight as it can cause leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures and can survive in a wide range of temperatures. It grows best in regions with temperatures between 15°C to 25°C, with a minimum tolerance of 5°C and a maximum tolerance of 40°C. It is essential to protect the plant from cold drafts during winter, as it can lead to leaf drop.
Soil Requirements
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum (Engl.) Cufod. grows well in well-draining soils with medium to high fertility levels. It thrives well in soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5, and it is essential to avoid soils that are too alkaline or too acidic. To enhance soil drainage and aeration, it is recommendable to incorporate organic matter such as compost in the soil.
Cultivation of Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum (Engl.) Cufod.
Propagation of Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum (Engl.) Cufod. is commonly done through seeds or cuttings. It prefers well-drained sandy soils and grows well in full sun or partial shade. Planting is done during the rainy season.
The plant is frost-tender, with an ideal temperature range of 20-30 degrees Celsius. It may not survive in extremely cold climates or hot, dry areas. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure a suitable microclimate for optimal growth.
Watering Needs
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum (Engl.) Cufod. requires moderate watering. It thrives in moist but not waterlogged soils. It is essential to water the plant regularly to encourage proper growth.
During prolonged dry spells, it is advisable to water the plants deeply to ensure that the water penetrates to the root zone. Consistent watering is vital for the plant's growth and survival.
Fertilization
The Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum (Engl.) Cufod. plant requires nutrient-rich soil for optimal growth. Fertilization should be done during the growing season to provide the necessary nutrients.
Applying a balanced fertilizer or compost around the root zone is recommended. Over-fertilization should be avoided as it can lead to root burn and damage or even kill the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to keep the Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum (Engl.) Cufod. plant in shape and encourage bushy growth. It is best done during the early stages of growth before the plant becomes too established.
Dead or damaged branches should be removed to improve air circulation, promote healthy growth and prevent the spread of diseases. The plant can be pruned to maintain a desired shape or size. It is advisable to use sharp and clean pruning tools to avoid causing injury to the plant.
Propagation of Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum (Engl.) Cufod.
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum (Engl.) Cufod. is commonly propagated through seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds are collected from the plant after they have matured. The best time for collecting seeds is during the dry season when the pods have opened and the seeds are ready for harvesting.
The collected seeds are then cleaned to remove any debris and are soaked in water for 24 hours. After soaking, the seeds are planted in a well-draining potting mix and covered with a thin layer of soil. The container is then placed in a warm, bright location with adequate moisture. Germination typically occurs within three to four weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum (Engl.) Cufod. can be propagated through softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken during the growing season, while semi-hardwood cuttings are taken towards the end of the growing season when they start to harden.
The cuttings are taken from healthy plants and should be at least four inches long with a few leaves attached. The lower leaves are removed, and the cuttings are treated with rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The container is then covered with a plastic bag or placed in a greenhouse to increase humidity and promote root growth. Roots typically form in three to four weeks.
Disease and Pest Management of Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum (Engl.) Cufod.
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile subsp. fulvo-tomentosum (Engl.) Cufod. is a hardy plant that is generally resistant to diseases and pests. However, it can still be affected by some common pathogens and pests.
Diseases
One common disease that can affect the plant is fungal leaf spot. This is characterized by circular spots on the leaves that are yellow or brown in color. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and destroy all infected leaves as soon as possible. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent the spread of the disease to healthy leaves.
Another disease that can affect the plant is powdery mildew. This is characterized by a white powdery growth on the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, it is important to keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent the spread of the disease to healthy leaves.
Pests
One common pest that can affect the plant is the mealybug. This is characterized by small cotton-like masses on the leaves and stems. To manage this pest, it is important to remove and destroy all infected plant parts as soon as possible. Insecticides can also be applied to prevent the spread of the pest to healthy parts of the plant.
Another pest that can affect the plant is the scale insect. This is characterized by small, flattened, oval-shaped insects on the leaves and stems. To manage this pest, it is important to remove and destroy all infected plant parts as soon as possible. Insecticides can also be applied to prevent the spread of the pest to healthy parts of the plant.
