Description of Rhus glutinosa Hochst. ex A.Rich. var. obtusifolia Engl.
Rhus glutinosa Hochst. ex A.Rich. var. obtusifolia Engl. is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is a member of the Anacardiaceae family. It commonly grows in North Africa, from Mauritania and Morocco to Sudan and Somalia. It is also found in parts of the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Oman.
Common Names
There are several common names for Rhus glutinosa Hochst. ex A.Rich. var. obtusifolia Engl. It is known as sticky sumac or Sudanese sumac due to the sticky consistency of the plant's leaves. It is also called sweet sumac or scented sumac because of the sweet fragrance emitted by its flowers.
Uses
Rhus glutinosa Hochst. ex A.Rich. var. obtusifolia Engl. has several traditional medicinal uses. The leaves and bark are used to treat fevers, stomach ailments, diarrhea, and dysentery. The plant also has astringent properties, which make it useful for treating skin conditions such as rashes and eczema. In addition, the plant produces a type of resin that can be used to make incense, and the wood is used for fuel and carpentry.
General Appearance
Rhus glutinosa Hochst. ex A.Rich. var. obtusifolia Engl. is a small tree or shrub that typically grows to a height of six to ten feet. Its leaves are compound, meaning they are composed of several leaflets arranged in a pattern resembling the shape of a feather. The leaflets are lance-shaped and have a glossy green color. The plant produces clusters of small, yellow flowers in the spring, which are followed by red, berry-like fruits in the fall. The plant's bark is gray and smooth, with a peeling texture in older specimens.
Light Requirements
Rhus glutinosa grows well under full sunlight. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight exposure per day to thrive. The plant cannot grow properly under low light conditions. Therefore, it is recommended to plant them in an area with proper sunlight exposure. In case of indoor planting, Rhus glutinosa requires bright direct sunlight, and if possible, it should be placed near a south-facing window.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in different temperature ranges, although it prefers moderate climates and is not tolerant of extreme temperatures. The ideal temperature range for Rhus glutinosa is between 18 to 25 degrees Celsius. It can survive the winter season but cannot withstand prolonged exposure to frost. During the winter season, the plant requires protection from frost. Therefore, it is recommended to cover the plant with a protective layer of mulch to prevent frost damage.
Soil Requirements
Rhus glutinosa can adapt to various soil types, but it grows best in well-draining, fertile soil. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range of 6 to 7.5. It cannot tolerate waterlogging conditions, so it is essential to plant the seedlings in well-draining soil. The plant also requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months, to prevent the soil from drying out.
Cultivation of Rhus glutinosa Hochst. ex A.Rich. var. obtusifolia Engl.
Rhus glutinosa Hochst. ex A.Rich. var. obtusifolia Engl. is a drought-tolerant shrub that is native to Africa. It can thrive well in various soil types, including neutral to mildly alkaline soils. It requires full exposure to sunlight, although it can still survive in partial shade areas.
The plant can grow up to a height of 3-6 meters and is well-suited to grow as an ornamental hedge, windbreak, or accent in landscape design.
Watering Needs of Rhus Glutinosa Hochst. ex A.Rich. var. Obtusifolia Engl.
While the shrub can tolerate drought, regular watering is required, especially during the first two years after planting. Afterward, the plant is self-sufficient and can go for extended periods without water.
During hot weather, it's recommended to water the plant once a week, ensuring the water penetration gets deep into the soil. Avoid over-watering, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization of Rhus Glutinosa Hochst. Ex A.Rich. Var. Obtusifolia Engl.
The shrub does not require frequent feeding and can thrive in nutrient-depleted soils. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer once a year can boost its growth and stimulate blooming. The best time to apply fertilizers is during the early growing season, preferably in late winter or early spring.
Pruning of Rhus Glutinosa Hochst. Ex A.Rich. Var. Obtusifolia Engl.
Pruning is essential to keep the shrub in good shape and health. The best time to prune the plant is during the dormant season, preferably between late fall and early winter.
It's important to prune out the damaged and diseased branches regularly and maintain the plant's desired shape. Use sterilized pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease or pests between plants.
Propagation of Rhus glutinosa Hochst. ex A.Rich. var. obtusifolia Engl.
Rhus glutinosa Hochst. ex A.Rich. var. obtusifolia Engl. can be propagated through different methods:
Seed Propagation
The plant can be easily propagated through seeds. The seeds are collected from the mature fruits of the plant. After collection, the seeds are dried and stored for later use. To propagate the seeds, they are sown in well-drained soil in a warm and shaded area. The seeds are covered with a thin layer of soil, and watered regularly. The germination usually occurs within two to three weeks.
Cuttings
The plant can also be propagated using hardwood cuttings. The cuttings are taken during winter when the plant is dormant. The cuttings should be 15-20 cm long with at least two to three nodes. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone before planting. The cuttings are planted in well-drained soil in a warm and shaded area. The soil is kept moist, and the cuttings are monitored for signs of new growth. The roots usually develop within six to eight weeks.
Suckers
The plant can also be propagated using suckers. Suckers are new shoots that develop from the base of the plant. They can be separated from the parent plant using a sharp knife. The suckers should have a few roots attached to them. The suckers are planted in well-drained soil in a warm and shaded area. The soil is kept moist, and the suckers are monitored for signs of new growth. The roots usually develop within four to six weeks.
Disease Management
The Rhus glutinosa Hochst. ex A.Rich. var. obtusifolia Engl. is susceptible to various diseases. Here are some common diseases and ways to prevent them:
Bacterial Leaf Spot
Bacterial leaf spot is commonly caused by Xanthomonas campestris. It can affect the leaves and twigs of the plant. Infected leaves show small, dark, water-soaked lesions that expand and become irregularly shaped with a yellow halo. The best way to manage the disease is to remove infected leaves and twigs, avoid overhead irrigation, and maintain proper plant spacing.
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is caused by various fungal species, including Colletotrichum spp., Gloeosporium spp., and Kabatiella spp. It can affect both leaves and twigs, causing brown or black spots and cankers. The infected leaves may fall off, leading to defoliation. The best practice to prevent anthracnose is to remove infected plant parts, maintain proper air circulation, and apply fungicides.
Phytophthora Crown Rot
Phytophthora crown rot is caused by Phytophthora spp. It can affect the crown and roots of the plant, causing wilting, chlorosis, stunting, and eventual death. The disease is commonly associated with poor drainage and water-logging soils. A preventative measure is to improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. Remove and destroy infected plants to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pest Management
The Rhus glutinosa Hochst. ex A.Rich. var. obtusifolia Engl. is also susceptible to pests. Here are some common pests and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are common sucking pests that can cause distortion and yellowing of leaves. They also excrete honeydew, which attracts sooty mold. To control the population of aphids, rinse leaves with a strong jet of water, apply insecticidal soap, prune foliage in heavily infested areas, and encourage natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps.
Mites
Mites are tiny pests that can cause significant damage to the plant by sucking the sap from the leaves. The infestation can cause yellowing, bronzing, and defoliation of the leaves. Prune the affected parts and spray with miticides to manage the population.
Leafminers
Leafminers are larvae of small flies that burrow inside the leaves, leaving visible trails. The damage can lead to wilting and stunting of the plant. To manage the infestation, remove and destroy deeply affected leaves, and implement sticky traps to capture the adult flies.
