Origin
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. angolense (Oliv.) Cufod. is a plant that belongs to the family Pittosporaceae. This plant species is native to the southern region of Africa, particularly in Angola, Botswana, and South Africa.
Common names
Common names of Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. angolense (Oliv.) Cufod. include Cheese wood, African cheesewood and Igugu lemfene which is a Zulu's name.
Uses
The Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. angolense (Oliv.) Cufod. plant has various uses. The local communities in Angola and South Africa use the plant in traditional medicine as it possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, antiviral and anti-fungal properties. Extracts from the plant have also been used to treat cough and flu.
Furthermore, the tree is also used as a source of timber and fuelwood. The wood is hard and heavy hence making it suitable for furniture and flooring. Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. angolense (Oliv.) Cufod. plant is also known for its ability to attract birds, which consume its fruits.
General appearance
The Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. angolense (Oliv.) Cufod. is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 5 meters tall. The plant has a smooth, grey bark with young stems covered in soft, brown hair. The leaves are narrow, glossy, and dark green. They are around 7-13 cm long, and 1.5-3.5 cm wide, with pointed tips. The flowers are greenish-yellow or creamy white and are small, about 1 cm in diameter. The fruit of this tree is a small capsule, with a diameter of around 1.5 cm, that contains numerous seeds.
Light Requirements
Pittosporum viridiflorum subs. angolense grows best when placed in areas with bright to semi-shaded light. Direct sunlight exposure can cause the leaves to wither or scorch. This species can adapt to different light levels but prefers a spot with filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Pittosporum viridiflorum subs. angolense is between 20°C to 30°C. This species can endure cold temperatures during winter seasons but requires protection from frost and excessive cold. Temperatures below 10°C can damage the plant, causing it to lose vigor and become susceptible to diseases.
Soil Requirements
Pittosporum viridiflorum subs. angolense can adapt to various soil types but prefers well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. Adding organic matter and perlite can help enhance soil drainage. The soil's pH range should be between 5.5 and 7.5, and soil moisture content should be consistent but not excessive. This species can endure mild flooding but can suffer when submerged in water for an extended period.
Cultivation methods
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. angolense (Oliv.) Cufod. is a great choice for gardeners who would like to add some aesthetic appeal to their gardens. The shrub is versatile and can be grown as a hedge plant, a specimen plant or even in a mixed border. It requires well-drained soil and is suitable for full sun to partial shade. When planting, create enough room allowing 1-2m spacing between the plants, depending on the intended usage.
Watering needs
This plant requires moderate watering, especially in the first year after planting. For established plants, water regularly during dry spells to keep the soil moist. However, do not overwater the plant as it is not waterlogging tolerant.
Fertilization
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. angolense (Oliv.) Cufod. requires regular fertilization to maintain its foliage color and overall health. Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring, and follow up with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer in summer to encourage growth. Refrain from fertilizing during the fall season, where the plant requires some level of dormancy.
Pruning
Pruning helps to maintain the plant's shape and size by removing dead and diseased branches. Consider pruning for formative purposes in its early years, which keeps the plant looking great in the long run. Once established, minimal pruning is necessary except for the occasional trims to shape the shrub. Always aim to prune after flowering to avoid damage to the following year's flowers.
Propagation of Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. angolense (Oliv.) Cufod.
The Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. angolense (Oliv.) Cufod. can be propagated through various methods, which include:
Seeds
The plant's seeds can be collected from mature fruits after they have ripened. The seeds are then cleaned and sown in a well-draining potting mix. To enhance germination rates, the seeds are usually soaked in water overnight before planting. It usually takes between 3-5 weeks for the seeds to germinate, and the resulting seedlings must be protected from direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions as they grow.
Cuttings
The Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. angolense (Oliv.) Cufod. cuttings can be taken from mature, healthy plants during the growing season. The cuttings are usually 5-10 cm long and should have at least two nodes. The leaves on the lower node are removed, and the cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormone before planted in a well-draining potting mix. To enhance rooting, the cuttings must be kept in high humidity and protected from direct sunlight. Rooting usually takes between 4-6 weeks, and the new plants can then be transplanted into individual containers or directly into the ground.
Air layering
Air layering is another propagation method for the Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. angolense (Oliv.) Cufod. It involves creating a small wound around a stem, then covering the wound with damp sphagnum moss and a plastic sheet. The moss is continuously kept moist, and roots develop at the wound site. Once roots have formed, the new plant can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted into a new container or directly in the ground.
Disease Management
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. angolense (Oliv.) Cufod. is prone to fungal diseases like leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. Leaf spot is caused by fungal pathogens that can lead to yellowing and early defoliation of the plant. Powdery mildew, on the other hand, can cause a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems. Root rot is caused by waterlogging in the soil, leading to decay of the roots.
To manage fungal diseases, it is essential to keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and maintain a proper watering schedule. Pruning affected leaves and branches can also help prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease, but it is essential to follow the instructions and dosage provided by the manufacturer.
Pest Management
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. angolense (Oliv.) Cufod. can attract pests like spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites can cause the leaves to become speckled and eventually dry out and fall off. Mealybugs, on the other hand, can cause yellowing or distortion of the leaves.
One way to manage spider mites is to increase the humidity around the plant by misting the leaves regularly. Introducing natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings can also help control the population of spider mites. Mealybugs can be removed by wiping the affected leaves with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. In severe cases, insecticides can be used, but it is essential to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
