Overview
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile var. angolense Oliv., also known as African Pitstoporium, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Pittosporaceae family. It is native to Angola and other countries in Africa.
General Appearance
This plant species is a small tree or shrub that typically grows up to 3 meters tall. It has a dense, rounded canopy with narrow leaves that are glossy and dark green in color. The leaves are simple, alternate, and lance-shaped, growing up to 7 cm long and 1.5 cm wide. The plant also features fragrant, creamy white flowers that bloom in late spring/early summer and produce small, reddish-brown woody fruits.
Common Names
African Pitstoporium is the most common English name for Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile var. angolense Oliv. It is also known as Ethiopian Mock Orange or Angola Pittosporum. In Angola, it is called "Mussango" or "Mussangeiro".
Uses
The African Pitstoporium has a variety of uses. In traditional medicine, the plant's bark, leaves, and fruits are used to treat various illnesses. It is also used in some African countries as a source of firewood, timber, and fodder for livestock. The plant's fragrant flowers are used for ornamental purposes and are sometimes used in making perfumes.
Light Requirements
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile var. angolense Oliv. is a shade-tolerant species that prefers partial to full shade. Full sunlight may cause leaf scorching and reduce plant growth. It can grow under high tree canopies or in partially shaded areas.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is adapted to temperate to tropical climatic conditions and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It grows well in areas with an average temperature of 20 - 30°C. Temperatures below 10°C can cause damage to the leaves and stem.
Soil Requirements
The species prefers well-drained soils that are moist and rich in organic matter. It can survive in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5 for optimal growth. Poorly drained or waterlogged soils can cause root rot and reduce plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile var. angolense Oliv. is native to Africa and can be grown as a small ornamental tree or shrub. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and full to partial sun. The plant can grow up to 10 meters tall and should be given enough space to spread out.
You can propagate Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile var. angolense Oliv. through stem cuttings, seeds, or layering. Cuttings should be taken in the spring and should be around 15 cm long. They should be stripped of their lower leaves and then planted in well-drained soil and moistened. Seeds can be soaked for a few hours before sowing. Layering involves burying a branch of the plant while it is still attached to the parent plant, and then cutting it from the parent once roots have developed.
Watering Needs
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile var. angolense Oliv. needs to be watered regularly. During the growing season, the soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The plant does not tolerate drought well, so it is essential to water it as soon as the soil starts to dry out. In the winter, the plant will require less water as it goes dormant.
Fertilization
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile var. angolense Oliv. benefits from regular fertilization. It should be fertilized during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer every two to four weeks. This will help to encourage healthy growth and promote flowering. It is essential to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging carefully, as over-fertilization can be harmful to the plant.
Pruning
To keep the plant looking its best, it should be pruned regularly. Pruning is best done in the spring when the plant is actively growing. You should start by removing any dead or damaged branches. You can also remove any crossing or inward-growing branches that are blocking light from reaching the center of the plant. The plant can be shaped by selectively cutting back branches to encourage growth in specific areas.
Propagation of Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile var. angolense Oliv.
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile var. angolense Oliv. can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the most common method. Fresh seeds are sown in well-draining soil mix, which is kept moist until germination occurs. Germination usually takes place within 4-6 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the field when they reach a height of 4-6 inches.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another effective method. Semi-hardwood cuttings of 6-8 inches long are taken from the parent plant during the growing season. The cuttings are treated with rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. They are then kept in a humid environment with high light until roots develop. Once the cuttings take root, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the field.
Propagation through Layering
Propagation through layering is a less common method that involves bending low branches of the parent plant and burying them in the soil. The buried portion of the branch is treated with rooting hormone and kept moist until roots develop. Once roots develop, the branch can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted into individual pots or directly into the field.
Disease and Pest Management of Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile var. angolense Oliv.
Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile var. angolense Oliv. is a plant that is well adapted to cold temperatures and drought conditions. However, it is not completely immune to diseases and pests. The following are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant:
Diseases
Fungal leaf spots - This is a common disease that is caused by a fungus. Symptoms include circular or irregular-shaped spots on the leaves. They may have a yellow or brown center and a dark border. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves. Apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Anthracnose - This disease is caused by a fungus and affects the leaves, stems, and fruit of the plant. Symptoms include sunken, dark-colored lesions. Infected branches may also die back. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant parts. Apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Pests
Aphids - These small insects suck the sap from the leaves of the plant. Symptoms include distorted and curled leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a jet of water to dislodge them. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill any remaining aphids.
Scale insects - These insects attach themselves to the undersides of leaves and suck the sap from the plant. Symptoms include yellowing leaves and honeydew (a sticky substance) on the leaves. To manage scale insects, remove and destroy infected leaves. Apply an insecticide to prevent further spread.
Caterpillars - These insects eat the leaves of the plant and can cause significant damage. Symptoms include chewed leaves and frass (insect excrement) on the leaves. To manage caterpillars, remove and destroy infected leaves. Apply an insecticide to kill any remaining caterpillars.
By keeping a watchful eye on your Pittosporum abyssinicum Delile var. angolense Oliv. and taking a proactive approach to disease and pest management, you can ensure that your plant stays healthy and productive.
