Plant Description:
The Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana (Engl.) Schönland is a shrub that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. It is a small tree that can grow up to 4 meters high and 3 meters wide. The plant has a smooth, grayish-brown bark. Its leaves are compound and alternate, with a length of 5-15 cm, and are dark green in color. The Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana produces clusters of small, white flowers that turn into reddish-brown fruits that are eaten by birds.
Origin and Common Names:
The Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana is native to the eastern regions of South Africa, particularly in the provinces of KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo. It is commonly known as the apple-leaf, velvet raisin, or mountain karee.
Uses:
The Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana has several uses, especially in traditional medicine. The leaves and bark of the plant are used to treat a variety of ailments, including stomach bugs, diarrhea, and dysentery. The shrub's bark is rich in tannins, which have antibacterial properties and can be used to treat infections. Moreover, the plant is also used for ornamental purposes because it has attractive foliage.
Light Requirements
Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana prefers to grow in full sun or partial shade. Adequate sunlight exposure promotes healthy foliage growth and flowering. Plants that receive less sunlight may have a slower growth rate and reduced flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can survive temperatures as low as -7°C and as high as 40°C. However, it prefers temperatures between 18°C to 26°C for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant can thrive in various soil types, including sandy, loamy or clay soils. However, it grows best in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.0. The soil should also have adequate organic matter because it enhances soil fertility and improves water retention.
Cultivation
Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana (Engl.) Schönland, commonly known as the mountain Karee or African Sumac, is an attractive tree that grows up to 10 m in height. It is both drought and frost tolerant and can adapt well to different soil types. The tree thrives in full sun and well-draining soil.
When planting, dig a hole twice the size of the tree's root ball, and add compost to the soil to improve the soil's water retention capacity. Water the tree thoroughly after planting, and continue to water regularly until the tree is established.
Watering Needs
The mountain Karee tree is drought-tolerant, but newly planted trees require regular watering until the plant is established. Once established, it requires minimal watering. It’s important to water deeply, making sure that the water reaches the tree's roots. However, avoid excessive watering as this can lead to root rot. It’s best to water the tree in the early morning or late afternoon.
Fertilization
Mountain Karee trees require minimal fertilization. The tree does well in nutrient-poor soil and too much fertilizer can lead to excessive growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to give the tree's growth a boost. Compost can also provide the required nutrients for the trees.
Pruning
The mountain Karee tree requires minimal pruning. Remove deadwood and any damage caused by wind or pests throughout the year. Prune the tree during the dormant season to control the tree's shape. Always use sterilized pruning shears to avoid spreading disease. Prune lightly by removing branches that cross or rub against each other.
Propagation methods of Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana (Engl.) Schönland
Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana (Engl.) Schönland can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is one of the most common methods for propagating Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana (Engl.) Schönland. The best time to collect seeds is in the fall. The collected seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool, dry place until planting time. Before planting, the seeds should be soaked in water for about 24 hours to soften the seed coat. In the spring, the seeds can be planted in well-draining soil and covered with a light layer of sand. They should be watered regularly and kept in a warm and shady area until germination.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings propagation is another method that can be used to propagate Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana (Engl.) Schönland. This method involves selecting healthy and disease-free stems from the parent plant. The stem cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long and should contain at least two nodes. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The planted cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid area until the roots start to develop. After the roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the ground.
Division propagation
Division propagation is a method that can be used to propagate mature Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana (Engl.) Schönland plants. This method involves dividing the plant into smaller sections, each containing roots and shoots. The divided sections should be replanted in well-draining soil mixture and watered regularly. The best time for division propagation is during the spring or fall.
Disease Management
Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana (Engl.) Schönland is relatively resistant to many diseases, but it may occasionally suffer from a few issues. These are some of the most typical diseases that can affect this plant and how to manage them:
Anthracnose
It is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides and can cause dieback or fruit decay. To manage the disease, prune affected plant parts and discard debris carefully. Apply a fungicide to the plant to protect it from further infection.
Root Rot
Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana (Engl.) Schönland is susceptible to root rot, which is caused by soil-borne fungal pathogens. Over watering contributes to the development of these diseases. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering and improve soil drainage. Additionally, Apply a fungicide to manage the disease.
Pest Management
The plant is also prone to pests that can damage it. It is crucial to diagnose the pests correctly and choose appropriate control options. These are the most common pests that can affect Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana (Engl.) Schönland and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that are common on Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana (Engl.) Schönland. They can cause needle discoloration, leaf drop, and reduced growth. Wash them off the plants using a strong blast of water from a hose. Apply a miticide to manage heavy infestations.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause yellowing and wilting. They can also produce honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes the development of fungal diseases. Eliminating them by manually scraping them off the plant. Apply horticultural oil to manage heavy infestations.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars can chew on the leaves of Rhus macowanii Schönland forma rehmanniana (Engl.) Schönland. They leave holes and can cause severe defoliation. Handpick and remove the caterpillars from the plant. Use an insecticide to control heavy infestations.
