Overview of Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl.
Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl., commonly known as the African redwood, is a species of flowering plant in the family Anacardiaceae. It is native to Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly found in Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Botswana. It is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a dense crown. The bark is reddish-brown and can be used for medicinal purposes, while its wood is highly valued for furniture making due to its beautiful reddish-brown color.
Common Names
The African redwood is also known by several other common names, including Mutondwe tree, Zimbabwean redwood, and African kino tree.
Uses
The African redwood has a variety of uses. The bark is used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and malaria in traditional medicine because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its wood is highly valued for furniture making and is also used to make handles for tools, drums, and carvings. The leaves and fruits are consumed by livestock, and the fruit is also eaten by humans. The tree is also used in agroforestry, as it fixes nitrogen in the soil and supports the growth of other crops.
Appearance
The African redwood is a large evergreen tree with a dense, spreading crown. It can grow up to 30 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter. The bark is reddish-brown and smooth on younger trees, becoming rough and fissured with age. The leaves are compound, with 5-7 leaflets, and are glossy green in color. The tree produces small, greenish-white flowers that are followed by small, red, or black fruit that resembles a cherry. The fruit is edible and has a tart flavor, often used to make jams and jellies.
Light Requirements
The Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl. plant prefers full sunlight to partial shade. It thrives in areas with direct exposure to sunlight between 6 and 8 hours daily.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species normally grows in moderate to warm temperatures. The optimal temperature range is between 15°C to 30°C. Temperatures lower than 10°C can cause the plant to become dormant and prevent it from growing. Extreme temperatures beyond 35°C could cause the plant to dry up.
Soil Requirements
The soil type needed for the Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl. plant to grow healthily is well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.0. Soil with poor drainage may cause root rot and kill the plant.
Cultivation methods
Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl. is a drought-tolerant plant that is easy to grow and maintain. It prefers well-draining soils and a sunny location with good air circulation. The plant is adapted to thrive in hot, arid environments and can withstand high temperatures and low humidity. It is a slow-growing plant that can grow up to 3m tall with a rounded canopy.
Watering needs
Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl. requires moderate watering during its initial growth stages. Once the plant is established, it can withstand extended periods of drought without significant damage. It is advisable to water the plant every two to three weeks during the dry season and not to water during the rainy season. Watering should be done in the early morning or late afternoon, and the soil should be allowed to dry out completely before the next watering.
Fertilization
Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl. does not require heavy fertilization. It is advisable to add organic matter, such as compost, to the soil during planting, and then apply a slow-release fertilizer once every year during the growing season. Excessive use of nitrogen-rich fertilizers can promote excessive vegetative growth and reduce fruiting. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizers.
Pruning
Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl. requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape. It is advisable to prune the plant during the early stages of growth to encourage a sturdy trunk and an open canopy. Dead branches and weak, thin stems should be pruned to maintain the plant's health. Pruning should be done during the dormant season after the plant has lost its leaves. It is advisable to wear gloves when pruning to avoid skin irritation caused by the plant's sap.
Propagation of Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl.
Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl., commonly known as the smooth-sumac, can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and transplanting suckers.
Propagation by Seeds
The easiest and most common way to propagate Rhus sonderi is by collecting seeds from mature plants. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix in the fall or early spring, just deep enough to cover the seeds. Germination may take several weeks to several months, but the seedlings can be transplanted once they have developed their true leaves.
Propagation by Cuttings
Rhus sonderi can also be propagated by taking semi-hardwood cuttings in the summer. The cuttings should be taken from new growth that is still flexible but has begun to harden. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep them in a warm, humid environment and mist them regularly until they have developed roots and can be transplanted.
Propagation by Suckers
Transplanting suckers is another method of propagating Rhus sonderi. Suckers are new shoots that emerge from the base of the plant and can be dug up and transplanted into a new location. However, this method should be used with caution as Rhus sonderi can spread rapidly through suckering and may become invasive in some areas.
Disease and Pest Management for Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl.
Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl., commonly known as Wildalmond, is susceptible to a few diseases and pests. Proper management strategies should be in place to prevent, control and eradicate these problems. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases:
Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl. is highly susceptible to fungal infections, root rot and canker, which can damage the root system and stem, leading to plant death. Rust, a fungal disease, can also cause premature leaf fall and defoliation, thereby reducing vigor and productivity.
The most effective way to manage fungal infections is through proper sanitation and cultural practices. Regular pruning and removal of infected parts can help prevent the spread of the disease. Avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation to reduce humidity levels. Fungicides such as triazole-based fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Pests:
Common pests that might infest Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl. include mealybugs, scales, and spider mites. These pests are known to suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves and eventual death.
The best way to manage these pests is by regular monitoring and early detection of infestations. Physical removal of insects and affected parts can also help prevent further spread. Neem oil, insecticidal soap, and pyrethrin-based sprays are effective in controlling pest populations. It is, however, essential to ensure that the application of pesticides is done correctly, following the recommended label instructions.
In conclusion, effective management strategies such as regular monitoring, proper sanitation, and cultural practices, along with the use of pesticides, can help prevent, control and eradicate diseases and pests that might affect Rhus sonderi Engl. var. glaberrima Engl., thus promoting plant growth and productivity.
