Overview
Pseudosabicea arborea (K.Schum.) N.Hallé subsp. arborea is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Adoxaceae. The plant is also known as the "false elder" and is native to tropical regions of Africa.
Appearance
The Pseudosabicea arborea grows as a shrub or small tree, reaching up to 6 meters in height. It has a single stem with a few branches and a dense and rounded crown. The leaves are compound and consist of 3-5 leaflets, which are oval and pointed at the tip. The flowers are small and white, grow in clusters, and are followed by small black berries.
Uses
Pseudosabicea arborea has medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. The plant has been used to treat a variety of ailments, such as headaches, diarrhea, fever, and stomach pains. The bark and roots of the plant are commonly used to prepare decoctions and infusions, which are then consumed orally or externally applied. Additionally, the leaves and branches of the plant are used as fodder for livestock. The wood is also used for small carpentry projects and making charcoal.
Light Requirements
Pseudosabicea arborea (K.Schum.) N.Hallé subsp. arborea is a tropical plant that thrives in environments that receive plenty of sunlight. The plant prefers partial shade to full sun and can tolerate direct sunlight for about 6 hours a day. In ideal conditions, the plant grows well under 50% shade with diffused light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in warm temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. It can tolerate temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C. When the temperature drops below 15°C, the plant's growth slows down, and it becomes vulnerable to fungal infections. It's essential to keep the plant away from drafts as it can damage its leaves and hinder growth.
Soil Requirements
Pseudosabicea arborea (K.Schum.) N.Hallé subsp. arborea thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The ideal soil type for the plant is sandy loam soil that holds a moderate amount of moisture. It's essential to avoid waterlogging as it can damage the plant's root system and hinder its growth.
Cultivation of Pseudosabicea arborea subsp. arborea
Pseudosabicea arborea subsp. arborea can be grown both indoors and outdoors, depending on your location. In colder climates, it's best to grow it indoors in pots, while in warmer climates, it can be grown in pots or planted directly in the ground. The plant prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in nutrients, and a location with bright, indirect sunlight.
Watering Needs of Pseudosabicea arborea subsp. arborea
The watering needs of Pseudosabicea arborea subsp. arborea are moderate. It's important not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot. Wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering the plant again. When watering, make sure to saturate the soil completely, but avoid leaving the pot sitting in standing water.
Fertilization of Pseudosabicea arborea subsp. arborea
Regular fertilization is important for the healthy growth of Pseudosabicea arborea subsp. arborea. During the growing season, fertilize the plant every two weeks with a balanced fertilizer. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to leaf burn and other issues.
Pruning of Pseudosabicea arborea subsp. arborea
Pseudosabicea arborea subsp. arborea does not require heavy pruning, but regular maintenance pruning can help keep the plant looking tidy and encourage healthy growth. Prune back any dead or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. If the plant becomes too large, it can be pruned back to shape after the growing season.
Propagation of Pseudosabicea arborea subsp. arborea
Pseudosabicea arborea (K.Schum.) N.Hallé subsp. arborea can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation through seeds
The seeds of Pseudosabicea arborea subsp. arborea can be sown in a well-draining soil mix. The seeds are small and should be lightly covered with soil. Water the soil regularly and keep it moist until the seeds germinate, which typically takes about two weeks. Once the seedlings have grown a few sets of leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or outdoors in a prepared bed.
Propagation through cuttings
Pseudosabicea arborea subsp. arborea can be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer from a healthy plant. Use a sharp, clean knife to make a cutting about 6 inches long, and remove all but the top few leaves. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone, and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a shaded area until it has developed roots. Once rooted, the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot or outdoors in a prepared bed.
Propagation through air layering
Air layering is another method of propagating Pseudosabicea arborea subsp. arborea. It involves creating a small wound on a branch and encouraging roots to grow from that wound. To air layer a plant, choose a healthy branch and remove a small section of bark from the branch, about 2-3 inches from the tip. Apply rooting hormone to the wound, and wrap it with moist sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and tie it off at both ends. Keep the moss moist, and after a few months, roots should begin to appear. Once rooted, the branch can be cut off the parent plant and transplanted into a pot or prepared bed.
Disease and Pest Management for Pseudosabicea arborea
Pseudosabicea arborea, also known as the African dogwood, is a popular ornamental tree that can thrive in a variety of climates. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests. Here are some common issues that may affect Pseudosabicea arborea and how to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf spots: Leaf spots are a common issue with Pseudosabicea arborea and are caused by fungal infections. They appear as small brown or black spots on the leaves and can spread quickly. To prevent leaf spots, avoid overhead watering and try to keep the foliage as dry as possible. If leaf spots do develop, prune affected leaves and apply a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of Pseudosabicea arborea. Symptoms include wilting, dark spots on the leaves, and cankers on the stems. To prevent anthracnose, improve air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. If anthracnose develops, prune affected areas and apply a fungicide.
Pests
Mites: Spider mites are a common pest that can infest Pseudosabicea arborea. Symptoms include yellowed leaves and webbing on the plant. To manage mites, rinse the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off, and keep the foliage as dry as possible to prevent their return. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control a severe infestation.
Scale insects: Scale insects can cause yellowing and stunted growth of Pseudosabicea arborea. They look like small bumps on the stems and leaves and can produce a sticky substance called honeydew. To manage scale insects, prune affected areas and apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to the plant.
