Overview of Polyochnella fruticulosa
Polyochnella fruticulosa is a species of plant that is native to Africa. It belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. This plant is also known by several common names such as Bushman's poison ivy, Bushman's pepper, and Bushman's poison.
General Appearance
The Polyochnella fruticulosa plant grows up to one meter tall, and it has smooth bark. The leaves are alternate, hanging, and trifoliate. Each leaflet has a smooth and glossy surface, while the edges have teeth-like shapes. The flowers are small, and the fruit is a small globular drupe that changes color from green to orange to red when ripe.
Uses
Polyochnella fruticulosa is traditionally used by African communities for several purposes. The sap from the leaves and bark is toxic and can cause skin irritations and blisters. The plant is therefore used as a pesticide to protect crops against insects and as a repellent against animals such as rodents and baboons.
The toxic properties of Polyochnella fruticulosa have also been utilized for medicinal purposes. The plant has been used to treat rheumatism, arthritis, and syphilis. The plant's sap is also applied externally to treat skin sores, wounds, and boils. In some instances, the plant's bark and roots have been used to treat diarrhea as well as kidney and bladder disorders.
Although Polyochnella fruticulosa is not commonly cultivated, it may have potential in the pharmaceutical industry due to its toxic properties.
Light Requirements
Polyochnella fruticulosa requires full sun for optimal growth. Partial shade may be tolerated in hotter regions, but full shade should be avoided as it can lead to stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Polyochnella fruticulosa is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of temperatures. However, it grows best in warm temperatures between 18°C and 27°C. It can also tolerate cold temperatures up to -5°C, but frost damage may occur.
Soil Requirements
Polyochnella fruticulosa grows best in well-draining soils with good fertility. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it does not thrive in waterlogged soils.
Cultivation of Polyochnella fruticulosa
Polyochnella fruticulosa is a type of plant species that can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings.
To propagate from seeds, you should plant the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture and keep the soil moist. The seeds require warm temperatures and well-lit conditions for successful germination.
If propagation from stem cuttings is preferred, it's advisable to use stem cuttings that have a length of 6 inches or more. These can be placed in rooting hormones then in a soil mixture of sand and peat moss. Keep the soil moist and provide bright but indirect light until new growth appears.
Watering needs for Polyochnella fruticulosa
It is necessary to keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season. Over-watering or poor drainage can result in damaged roots, leading to the death of the plant. When watering, carefully ensure not to water the leaves. If the leaves become wet during watering, dry them with a clean cloth to prevent the buildup of mold and mildew.
Fertilization of Polyochnella fruticulosa
The Frail Polyochnella fruticulosa benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Fertilize once every week using a complete liquid fertilizer having a balanced NPK ratio. This has to be diluted according to the given instructions on the fertilizer package and applied to the soil. Remember not to fertilize during the winter season when the plant is dormant.
Pruning Polyochnella fruticulosa
Polyochnella fruticulosa benefits from light pruning to keep it in shape and encourage new growth. Pruning can be carried out early in the growing season. The plant should be clipped using clean and sharp tools. To remove diseased or damaged parts, sterilize the pruning shears by cleaning them with surgical alcohol before use.
Propagation of Polyochnella fruticulosa
Polyochnella fruticulosa (Gilg) Tiegh., also known as the African shrub or bushman poison, is a shrub that is native to Southern Africa. This plant can be propagated through different methods such as seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seed is the most common and natural method for Polyochnella fruticulosa. The seeds can be harvested when the plant gets matured and is producing seed pods. These seeds must be collected, cleaned, and stored in a cool and dry place until ready to plant.
Before planting, the seeds must be soaked in water for a few hours. Then, sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mixture or compost in a pot. The pot must be covered with a plastic sheet or a clear plastic bag to keep the soil moist and warm. This method will help the seeds to germinate well. The emerging seedlings should be transplanted into a larger pot when they have developed their second or third set of leaves.
Vegetative propagation
Polyochnella fruticulosa can also be propagated through vegetative methods such as cuttings and layering.
Cuttings: Take a stem cutting from the parent plant, ensuring that it has a few leaves. The cutting must be placed in a well-draining soil mixture, and the pot covered with plastic to maintain moisture. After a few weeks, roots will grow from the stem, and the plant will start growing.
Layering: This method is done by bending a low-hanging branch downwards, and then burying a part of the stem in the soil. The bent stem must be kept in place with a stake. After a few months, roots will grow from the burried stem, and the new plant can be separated from the parent plant.
Propagation of Polyochnella fruticulosa requires some patience, but it is a simple and cost-effective way to propagate this beautiful plant.
Disease Management
Polyochnella fruticulosa is susceptible to various diseases, which can affect the plant's growth and reduce yield. The following are some common diseases that can affect Polyochnella fruticulosa:
- Botrytis blight: This fungal disease causes a gray mold on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. The infected plant parts may rot and die. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected plant parts and treat the plant with fungicides.
- Phytophthora root rot: This soil-borne disease causes the plant to wilt and die. The roots may appear black and rotten. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering, and improve soil drainage. Treat the plant with fungicides.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes brown lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruits of the plant. The infected plant parts may die and fall off. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected plant parts and treat the plant with fungicides.
Pest Management
Pests can cause significant damage to Polyochnella fruticulosa, which can reduce yield and plant growth. Here are some common pests that can affect Polyochnella fruticulosa:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the plant and can cause curling and yellowing of the leaves. To manage aphids, remove them from the plant with a strong stream of water or treat the plant with insecticides.
- Spider mites: These tiny insects feed on the plant's sap and can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage spider mites, remove and destroy the infected plant parts and treat the plant with insecticides.
- Caterpillars: These larvae of moths and butterflies can feed on the leaves and fruits of the plant and can cause significant damage. To manage caterpillars, handpick them from the plant or treat the plant with insecticides.
Proper plant care, such as timely watering, fertilization, pruning, and crop rotation, can help prevent diseases and pests from affecting Polyochnella fruticulosa. Regular monitoring of the plant for symptoms of diseases and pests can also help in early detection and timely management.
