Overview
Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken is a plant species found in Africa belonging to the Anacardiaceae family. It goes by several common names including African sumac, Kwango rhus, and makgilane.
Origin
This plant species is native to Africa and is commonly found in countries such as Angola, Congo, and Zambia. It typically grows in savannah and woodland areas.
Uses
The leaves and bark of Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken have traditionally been used for medicinal purposes by the local communities. The plant extracts have been used to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, fever, and sore throat. The bark of the plant has also been used as a tanning agent and as a source of dye for textiles.
General appearance
Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken is a small tree that can grow up to 6 meters tall. The plant has glossy green leaves that are pinnately compound, with each leaflet measuring around 5-9 cm long. The small flowers are greenish-yellow and are followed by spherical fruits that are red in color and measure around 6-8 mm in diameter.
Light Requirements
Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken prefers to grow in areas with partial shade to full sun exposure. Too much sunlight can lead to leaf burn or twigs scorching, while insufficient light can result in an elongated and weak growth.
Temperature Preferences
The plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 23°C to 28°C during the day and around 20°C at night. The minimum temperature required for Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken to grow is 15°C, and temperatures below this can lead to yellowing of leaves and stunted growth.
Soil Requirements
Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. A pH range between 6.0 to 6.5 is ideal for the growth of this plant. The plant can tolerate drought but not waterlogging, so it is essential to avoid overwatering it.
Cultivation of Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken
Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken is a deciduous shrub that can be grown in various soils including sandy, loamy, and clay ones. The plant thrives in a well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH. To cultivate this plant, it is recommended to plant it in a sunny location that receives partial shade, particularly in hot climates. This will help to prevent the plant from being damaged by excessive sunlight.
Watering Needs of Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken
Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken is relatively drought-tolerant and does not require much watering once established. However, during the hot summer months, it is important to water the plant occasionally to prevent it from drying out. When watering the plant, it is advisable to water it deeply to encourage the development of a strong root system.
Fertilization of Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken
It is essential to fertilize Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken once or twice a year to promote its growth and keep it healthy. The recommended fertilizer for this plant is a slow-release, balanced fertilizer applied during the growing season. Over-fertilization can harm the plant, so it is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommended dosage.
Pruning of Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken
Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken does not require much pruning. However, if the plant becomes leggy or too bushy, pruning can be carried out to improve its appearance. For best results, prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before the new growth appears. During pruning, remove any dead or damaged branches, and thin out any overcrowded areas of the plant to improve air circulation.
Propagation of Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken
Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken can be propagated through several different methods, which include:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken is through seed propagation. Seeds should be collected from ripe fruit and sown in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, and placed in a warm, shaded area. It is important to note that seed germination can be slow, taking up to six months.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is also an effective method for propagating Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken. Semi-hardwood cuttings of approximately 10 cm in length can be taken from healthy, disease-free plants during the growing season. Cuttings should be dipped into rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, and placed in a warm, shaded area. Roots will typically form in 4-6 weeks.
Division Propagation
Division propagation can also be used to propagate Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken. The plant can be divided by carefully digging up the entire plant and separating the root system into smaller sections. Each section should have its own stem and root system. The divided sections can be planted in new locations and watered well.
Disease Management for Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken
Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken is a hardy plant, and if properly cared for, it will rarely suffer from diseases. However, some common diseases can still affect this plant, such as:
- Leaf spot: This disease appears as small, brown spots on the leaves, which can cause them to yellow and fall off. It is caused by a fungus. To manage this disease, remove and destroy the infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Apply a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions if the problem persists.
- Crown rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the base of the plant and can be fatal. The symptoms include wilting, yellow leaves, and decay at the base of the stem. To manage this disease, remove the affected plant immediately and destroy it. Avoid planting in poorly-drained soil, and always plant in well-draining soil.
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. It can cause stunted growth and eventually kill the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves. Spray the plant with a fungicide, or use a homemade remedy of one tablespoon of baking soda mixed with one gallon of water.
Pest Management for Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken
Rhus kirkii Oliv. var. kwangoensis Van der Veken can also be affected by pests. Some common pests that can attack this plant include:
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects suck the sap from the leaves, which can cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the aphids, or attract natural predators such as ladybugs.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can eat the leaves and stem of the plant, causing significant damage. To control caterpillars, remove them by hand or use an organic pesticide such as Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis).
- Spider mites: These are tiny insects that can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use a strong spray of water or insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
Note: Always follow the instructions on the pesticide or fungicide label carefully. Avoid using chemical products during hot weather or when the plant is stressed. Take care to protect beneficial insects and pollinators while controlling pests.
