Origin
Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett, commonly known as "African sumac," is a deciduous shrub native to southern Africa, particularly in the dry regions of Namibia, Botswana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
Common names
African sumac has various common names in different regions, such as the "red currant" or "mountain currant" in South Africa, "boesmanpeultjie" in Namibia, and "kharos" in Botswana. However, it is widely known among botanists and gardeners as the Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett.
Uses
The African sumac has been used for centuries by indigenous tribes for its medicinal and cultural values. Some tribes use the plant to treat stomach aches, fever, skin diseases, and to induce sweat. The bark and roots of the plant are boiled and used to make tea or infusions. The plant's wood is also used to make furniture, poles, and utensils.
African sumac is also an ornamental plant and is grown in gardens for its attractive, dense foliage, and ability to attract butterflies and birds. The plant is drought-resistant and can grow in poor soils, making it ideal for ornamental use in arid regions.
General appearance
Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett is a multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub that can grow up to 3 meters (10 feet) tall. The leaves are compound and alternate, with a shiny, dark green color and serrated margins. The flowers are small and yellowish-green, produced in dense clusters on the tips of the branches.
The plant's berries are bright red and have a sour taste, resembling the taste of currants. The bark of the plant is reddish-brown and has fine, vertical grooves.
The African sumac is a hardy plant that can survive in a wide range of conditions, making it a useful plant for ornamental and medicinal use.
Light Requirements
Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett requires full sunlight exposure to thrive. It is adapted to grow under sunny conditions and does not tolerate intense shade. Therefore, it is best to plant this species in an open area or any location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is adapted to grow in warm to hot temperatures. It does not tolerate frost or extreme cold conditions. The ideal temperature range for Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett is between 20°C to 35°C. It can survive in temperatures above this range but requires regular watering to prevent dehydration during hot weather.
Soil Requirements
Soil conditions significantly affect the growth of Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett. This plant prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It does not perform well in heavy clay soils or waterlogged soils. Therefore, it is essential to prepare the soil adequately before planting and ensure proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Cultivation of Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett
When cultivating Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett, it's crucial to ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it an ideal candidate for growing in a garden or as a container plant.
It's essential to ensure that the plant is grown in an area that provides good air circulation, as it will reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Furthermore, it's best to avoid growing the plant in areas that experience cold and frosty weather, as it's not very frost-tolerant.
Watering needs for Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett
When it comes to watering, Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett is relatively drought-tolerant, making it an excellent option for low-maintenance gardening. It's recommended to water the plant deeply once every week or two, depending on the climate conditions and the soil type.
Dry soil can lead to stunted growth, while overwatering can result in root rot. Therefore, it's essential to monitor the soil moisture regularly and not to overdo it.
Fertilization of Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett
Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett doesn't require regular fertilization like other plants. However, if the plant shows signs of stunted growth or yellow leaves, you can use an all-purpose fertilizer to stimulate growth.
If the plant is grown in containers, it's best to use a slow-release fertilizer to avoid overfeeding. It's also recommended to apply the fertilizer during the plant's active growth period, which is during the warm months of the year.
Pruning Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett
Pruning Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett is an important aspect of its care, as it helps to enhance its shape and growth. The plant responds well to moderate pruning, which involves cutting back the tips of its branches with a pair of sharp, clean secateurs.
It's best to prune the plant during its dormant period, which is in late winter or early spring. Pruning during the growing season can stimulate new growth, which may be vulnerable to diseases and pests.
Propagation of Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett
Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett, commonly known as the "Dinter's African sumac," can be propagated through different methods.
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagation for Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri is through seeds. The seeds should be collected during the autumn season and sown in a well-draining potting mix. The potting mix should be kept moist, and the seeds should be placed in an area that receives direct sunlight. Germination usually occurs between 2-8 weeks. Once the seedlings reach a height of 5-7 cm, they can be transplanted into individual containers.
Cuttings propagation
Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri can also be propagated by cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from mature and healthy plants during the early spring season. The cuttings should be around 10-15 cm long and should have at least two nodes. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The potting mix should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be placed in an area that receives indirect sunlight. Rooting usually occurs within 6-8 weeks.
Division propagation
Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri may also be propagated through division. This method involves dividing the parent plant into smaller pieces, ensuring that each piece has a healthy root system. The divided plant can then be transplanted into individual containers with a well-draining potting mix. The soil should be kept moist, and the plant should be placed in an area that receives indirect sunlight. Transplanting should occur during the autumn season.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is important to maintain a regular watering schedule and ensure that the plant receives enough sunlight. With proper care, Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri can be easily propagated and will thrive in its new environment.
Disease Management
The Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett plant is generally resistant to various diseases. However, it may suffer from issues like fungal and bacterial infections, which can lead to stunted growth, leaf drop, and other symptoms. One of the common fungal infections that affect this plant is anthracnose. This disease causes the leaves to develop brown or black spots, which eventually leads to defoliation. To manage this disease, it is necessary to remove infected plant debris, improve air circulation, and avoid overhead watering. Applying a fungicide can also help control the disease.
Another fungal disease that affects Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett is powdery mildew. This disease is characterized by a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems, which can eventually lead to defoliation. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to remove infected plant material and avoid overhead watering. Applying a fungicide can also help control the disease. However, it is essential to ensure the fungicide is safe for the plant's use.
Pest Management
Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett is relatively resistant to pests. However, it might suffer from issues like scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites infestations. Scale insects can lead to distorted leaves and twigs. These insects feed on the plant's sap, which can weaken the plant. To manage this issue, it is essential to apply a horticultural oil spray to control the insects. Additionally, pruning infested parts could control the infestation.
Mealybugs are another pest that might affect Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett. These insects tend to cluster around the base of the leaves, leaving behind a sticky residue full of honeydew. The residue attracts ants and can further lead to fungal infections. To manage the infestation, consider using a systematic insecticide or natural predators like ladybugs.
Spider mites are another common pest that tends to attack the Rhus pyroides Burch. var. dinteri (Engl.) Moffett plant. These pests can cause the leaves to develop a yellowish color and a stippled appearance. They also tend to leave behind silk webs. To manage an infestation, consider applying insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plants. Additionally, increasing humidity around the plant can help control spider mite infestations.
