Origin
Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum (Schönland) R.Fern. is a plant species that belongs to the sumac family Anacardiaceae. This plant is native to southern Africa and can be found growing in Lesotho, South Africa, and Swaziland.
Common names
This plant is commonly known as Basuto karee, Mountain karee, or African sumac.
Uses
Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum (Schönland) R.Fern. has several uses. The tree's bark is used to make a medicinal tea that is used to treat diarrhea and stomach cramps. The fruits of the tree are a source of food for birds and other wildlife. The wood of the tree is also used for firewood and to make various crafts.
General Appearance
Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum (Schönland) R.Fern. is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 7 meters in height. The bark of the tree is gray and smooth when young but becomes rough and scaly as it ages. The leaves of the tree are compound and spirally arranged on the branches. They are dark green and glossy on the upper surface and pale green on the underside. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that form in clusters on the branches. The fruit of the tree is a small, round drupe that is reddish-brown in color and contains a single seed.
Light Requirements
Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum (Schönland) R.Fern. typically requires full sun exposure to grow successfully. This plant thrives in areas that receive direct sunlight for at least six hours daily. Insufficient sunlight can cause stunted growth, lower yields, and disease susceptibility.
Temperature Requirements
Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum (Schönland) R.Fern. is well-suited for growing in warm daytime temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. The plant has a medium to high heat tolerance, and it can withstand temperatures of up to 40°C for brief periods. The minimum daytime temperature for growth is approximately 20°C, making it a suitable plant for warm and tropical climates.
Soil Requirements
Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum (Schönland) R.Fern. grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level within the range of 5.5 to 7.2. The plant is susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions, so adequate drainage is essential. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged.
Cultivation Method for Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum
Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum is a shrub that can grow up to 4 meters tall. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy soils to loamy soils. The ideal pH range for this plant is around 6 to 7, which is slightly acidic to neutral. This plant requires full sunlight and can tolerate partial shade.
Watering Needs for Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum
This plant requires moderate watering, about once a week, during the growing season, which is typically spring and summer. In periods of drought, it may require additional watering to avoid wilting. Avoid over-watering as this can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant.
Fertilization for Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum
This plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season to encourage healthy growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, every 4 to 6 weeks. Do not apply fertilizer when the plant is dormant.
Pruning for Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum
Pruning is important to maintain the shape and size of this plant. It is best to prune this plant during the dormant season, which is typically in late fall or early winter. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and trim back any overly long branches. Take care when pruning, as the sap from this plant can cause skin irritation.
Propagation
Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum (Schönland) R.Fern. can be propagated through two methods: seeds and cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
To propagate Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum (Schönland) R.Fern. through seeds, collect seeds from the plant once they are fully matured and dry. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil, and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil moderately and keep it moist throughout the germination process. It may take up to two months for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings are developed, transplant them into individual pots and allow them to grow until they reach a mature size.
Propagation through Cuttings
Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum (Schönland) R.Fern. can also be propagated through cuttings. Take cuttings from healthy and mature plants early in the morning during the active growing season. The cuttings should be between 10-15 cm in length and have at least two leaves on them. Remove the leaves from the bottom portion of the cuttings and make a clean cut at the base. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and humidity levels high. It may take up to six weeks for the cuttings to root. Once they have developed new roots, transplant them into individual pots and allow them to grow until they reach a mature size.
Disease Management
The Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum plant is known to be susceptible to several diseases. These include:
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora spp. and can cause damage to leaves, eventually leading to defoliation. To manage leaf spot, infected parts should be removed and destroyed, and plants should be kept dry to reduce humidity levels.
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf drop and twig dieback in infected plants. To manage anthracnose, infected plant parts should be removed and burned, and fungicides can be applied to prevent further spread.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by various fungi in the soil and can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and eventual death. To manage root rot, affected plants should be removed and destroyed, and fungicides can be applied to prevent further spread.
Pest Management
The Rhus montana Diels var. basutorum plant may also be susceptible to several pests, including:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can cause stunted plant growth and may spread viruses. To manage aphids, insecticidal soaps or oils can be applied, or beneficial insects such as ladybugs can be introduced to control their populations.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves and may produce webbing. To manage spider mites, plants can be sprayed with water to wash off the pests, and insecticidal soaps or oils can be applied.
- Caterpillars: These pests can cause defoliation and damage to plant tissue. To manage caterpillars, handpicking and destroying infected plant parts can be effective, or Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can be applied as a biological control.
Regular monitoring of plants for signs of disease and pests can help prevent their spread and ensure healthy growth. In addition, maintaining proper cultural practices such as proper watering, fertilization, and pruning can help keep plants healthy and less susceptible to damage from diseases and pests.
