Origin of Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana (Engl.) Bolli
Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana (Engl.) Bolli, commonly known as the African elderberry or dwarf elder, belongs to the family Caprifoliaceae. The plant is native to Mediterranean countries, such as Morocco, Tunisia, Algeria, and Libya, and can also be found in East Africa, Somalia, and Yemen.
Common names
The African elderberry has several common names depending on the country and region. In North Africa, it is known as "Amar el moulouk" in Morocco, "Belhalwa" in Libya, and "Kelkouk" in Tunisia. In East Africa, it is referred to as "Gudu gudu" in Ethiopia and "Emwanzu" in Uganda.
Uses
The African elderberry has been used traditionally for medicinal purposes. Its leaves and flowers contain flavonoids, which act as antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. The plant has also been used to treat respiratory ailments, such as colds, coughs, and asthma. Additionally, the bark and roots of the plant have been used as a diuretic to treat edema, hypertension, and kidney problems.
The African elderberry has also been used for culinary purposes. The flowers can be used to make a flavorful syrup, which can be added to cocktails or drizzled over desserts. The berries can be used to make jams, jellies, and wines.
General appearance
The African elderberry is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 2 meters in height. It has dark green, pinnately compound leaves that are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The plant produces clusters of small white or cream-colored flowers that are followed by small, dark purple or black berries. The berries are toxic if eaten raw but can be cooked to make them safe for consumption.
Light Requirements
Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana requires full sun to partial shade to grow optimally. It can thrive in areas with bright and direct sunlight for a few hours per day or in areas with partial shade where it receives indirect sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can survive in a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in warm weather. The ideal temperature range for Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana is between 20°C to 30°C. It can tolerate low temperatures, but frost can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in different soil types, including sandy soils, loamy soils, and clay soils, as long as the soil is well-drained. The plant can also tolerate slight variations in soil pH values from slightly acidic to alkaline conditions. It is important to note that the plant cannot thrive in water-logged soils.
Cultivation of Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana (Engl.) Bolli
Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana (Engl.) Bolli is a shrub that belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family. It thrives under full sun, but it can also tolerate partial shade. This plant is indigenous to Africa and can grow up to a height of 2 meters. The cultivation methods for this plant are straightforward and easy to follow.
Watering Needs
Water is essential for the growth of Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana (Engl.) Bolli. The frequency of watering will depend on the weather conditions. During the dry season, the plant should be watered once every two days. However, during the rainy season, the plant may not need additional watering unless the soil becomes completely dry. Overwatering should be avoided as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilizer is essential for the healthy growth of Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana (Engl.) Bolli. The soil should be enriched with organic matter to promote better growth and yield. The recommended fertilizer is a balanced NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) fertilizer with a ratio of 10:10:10. Fertilizer should be applied in the early stages of growth, and then every three months afterwards.
Pruning
Pruning is critical to maintaining the shape and size of Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana (Engl.) Bolli. It should be done when the plant is dormant to prevent damage to its young shoots. The best time for pruning is in late winter or early spring. Dead, damaged, or diseased branches should be pruned out. To promote better air circulation, some of the older growth should also be removed. It is advisable to prune the plant so that it retains a natural, bush-like appearance.
Propagation of Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana (Engl.) Bolli
Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana (Engl.) Bolli, commonly known as the African elderberry, can be propagated using several methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds can be collected from ripe fruit and then sown immediately in the fall in a well-draining soil mix. Alternatively, seeds can be stratified for three months in a cold, moist environment before sowing in the spring. Seeds typically take 3-4 weeks to germinate, and seedlings can be transplanted once they have developed 2-3 true leaves.
Cuttings propagation
Softwood cuttings can be taken from the plant in the late spring or early summer and should be between 4-6 inches long. Using a rooting hormone can increase the success rate of cuttings. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist for several weeks until they develop roots. Once roots are established, the young plants can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
Layering propagation
Layering is another propagation method that can be used to propagate Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana. This method involves bending a mature stem or branch until it touches the ground, covering it with soil, and allowing it to develop roots. Once the layer has established roots, it can be separated from the parent plant and planted in a new location.
Disease Management for Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana (Engl.) Bolli
Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana (Engl.) Bolli, also known as the African elderberry, may suffer from various diseases that afflict other members of the Sambucus genus. By identifying common diseases and understanding methods of disease management, it is possible to prevent significant losses and maintain healthy plants.
Fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew, can significantly weaken Sambucus ebulus plants. Powdery mildew appears as a white, powdery layer on the leaves and stems, but it can be controlled using fungicides. It is essential to select the right fungicide and apply it appropriately, according to manufacturer's instructions, to ensure successful disease management.
Bacterial infections, such as bacterial leaf spot, may also damage Sambucus ebulus leaves, causing them to fall prematurely. The bacteria can be controlled using copper-based bactericides, such as Bordeaux mixture, but timing and rate of application are critical factors in preventing disease spread.
Pest Management for Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana (Engl.) Bolli
Sambucus ebulus L. subsp. africana (Engl.) Bolli may also suffer from insect infestations that can lead to significant damage if left untreated. Common pests that affect elderberries include aphids, spider mites, and Japanese beetles.
Aphids reproduce rapidly, leading to colonizations in a short time. They can cause damage by sucking sap from the leaves, resulting in stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage aphids, it is essential to use biological control, such as natural predators, or insecticidal soap and oils.
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. They cause injury by sucking sap from the leaves, causing a yellowing of leaves and stunted plant growth. To prevent spider mites from damaging Sambucus ebulus, it is necessary to spray the plant with miticides regularly.
Japanese beetles feed on the Sambucus ebulus foliage, leading to skeletonization of leaves and wilting of the plant. Insecticidal sprays, such as neem oil or pyrethrin, can help manage beetle populations. Physical measures such as handpicking and beetle traps can also be implemented to protect the plants from insect infestations.
By identifying common pests and diseases for Sambucus ebulus and implementing appropriate control measures, it is possible to maintain healthy plants and ensure a good yield. Regular monitoring and proper plant care practices are crucial in preventing damage and promoting plant health.
