Origin
Pterocelastrus variabilis auct. belongs to the family Celastraceae and is native to Western and Central Africa, specifically Cameroon, Gabon, and Equatorial Guinea.
Common Names
Some of the common names of Pterocelastrus variabilis auct. include Soko yinmu, Sele, African sandalwood, and L’ngala.
Appearance
Pterocelastrus variabilis auct. is a small to medium-sized tree, growing up to 25 meters in height. The bark is smooth and grey while the leaves are simple, alternate, and leathery, with a shiny upper surface, and grow up to 16 cm in length. The flowers are small and greenish-white, with five petals. The fruit is a round to oval, reddish-brown drupe, with a diameter of about 1 cm, containing one to two seeds.
Uses
Pterocelastrus variabilis auct. has several medicinal, cultural and commercial uses. The bark and leaves of the tree are used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments including respiratory infections, stomach ache, and fever. The wood is hard and durable, making it ideal for carving and is highly valued in the production of wooden sculptures. The oil extracted from the seeds is used in the cosmetic industry as a skin conditioner and emollient.
Light Requirements
Pterocelastrus variabilis typically requires partial or full sunlight exposure for optimal growth. The plant can thrive in areas with moderate shade, but it requires an adequate amount of sunlight for healthy and steady growth. Insufficient light exposure can slow down the plant's growth rate and affect leaf development.
Temperature Requirements
Pterocelastrus variabilis grows best in warm temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C, but it can survive in temperatures as low as 10°C. Extreme temperatures, especially in the winter season, can cause leaf drop or damage to the plant. Therefore, it's essential to keep the plant in a temperature-controlled environment to maintain its growth and prevent cold damage.
Soil Requirements
Pterocelastrus variabilis requires well-draining soil, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can thrive in sandy or loam soil with high organic content. However, the soil should not retain water as it can lead to root rot. Regular application of organic fertilizers can also aid in the plant's growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Pterocelastrus variabilis auct. is a hardy plant that can adapt to different environmental conditions. It can grow well in loam or sandy soil with good drainage. The plant requires partial to full sun exposure, making it ideal for outdoor cultivation. Protect the plant from strong winds, and it flourishes well in USDA zones 9-11.
Watering Needs
Pterocelastrus variabilis auct. requires moderate watering for optimal growth. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods with little watering. However, it would help if you watered it regularly during the hot summer months to prevent dehydration. Avoid overwatering Pterocelastrus variabilis auct. as it can affect the plant's growth and lead to root rot.
Fertilization
For optimal growth and health, Pterocelastrus variabilis auct. requires regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer or one rich in nitrogen to encourage foliage growth. Apply the fertilizer during the spring and summer months when the plant is actively growing. Avoid excessive use of fertilizers as this can lead to salt buildup, affecting the plant's health.
Pruning
Pruning helps to maintain the shape and size of Pterocelastrus variabilis auct. and helps remove any dead or diseased parts. Prune the plant during the late winter or early spring while the plant is still dormant before the new growth. Use clean sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts. Be careful not to over-prune the plant as this can affect its growth.
Propagation Methods for Pterocelastrus variabilis auct.
Pterocelastrus variabilis is a shrub or small tree native to South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. It is commonly propagated through seed, cuttings, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Pterocelastrus variabilis are small and black, and are harvested from mature fruit pods. To propagate through seed, the seeds are first soaked in warm water for 24 hours to soften the hard outer seed coat. After soaking, the seeds are planted in well-draining soil mix and kept moist. After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted to their own pot or directly to the garden.
Cuttings Propagation
Pterocelastrus variabilis can also be propagated through softwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken from new growth of the plant just as it begins to harden off. A 6-inch stem cutting is taken, and the lower leaves are removed. The cuttings are then dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in rooting medium which can be a soil mix or sand. The cuttings are kept moist and under high humidity until new roots form in 4-6 weeks.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting can also be used to propagate Pterocelastrus variabilis. This method involves taking a cutting from a desirable cultivar or variety and grafting it onto a rootstock of a related or compatible plant. The two are then bound together until they fuse and become one plant. This method is useful to propagate cultivars with unique traits or characteristics that cannot be replicated through seed or cuttings.
Disease Management for Pterocelastrus variabilis
Pterocelastrus variabilis is a relatively hardy plant, but it can be vulnerable to fungal infections such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and anthracnose under certain conditions. These diseases can cause discoloration, deformation, and even death of the plant if not managed properly.
One way to manage these diseases is to practice good sanitation in and around the plant, removing any infected foliage or debris. Fungicides can also be used as a preventative measure or to treat an existing infection. However, care should be taken to follow application instructions closely and to avoid using excessively toxic chemicals that could harm the plant or surrounding environment.
Pest Management for Pterocelastrus variabilis
While Pterocelastrus variabilis is not typically a magnet for pests, there are a few that can cause problems for the plant, including scale insects, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests can cause damage by feeding on the plant's sap and can also attract other pests or diseases.
One way to manage these pests is to use a combination of biological controls, such as beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, and targeted pesticide treatments if necessary. It is important to identify the specific type of pest before beginning treatment to ensure that the most effective method is used without harming the plant or beneficial organisms. Additionally, regularly inspecting the plant and removing any affected foliage or pests can help to prevent an infestation from spreading.
