Overview of Schotia bequaertii
Schotia bequaertii (De Wild.) De Wild., also known as the African weeping bean or pink boer bean, is an evergreen tree that is native to the savannahs and forests of central and southern Africa.
Description
The tree can reach up to 10-15 meters in height and has a round crown that provides ample shade. The trunk and branches are dark brown and rough, with fissures and peeling bark. The leaves of Schotia bequaertii are dark green, glossy, and compound, with four to eight leaflets. The flowers are reddish-pink and form clusters at the end of branches, blooming from late winter to early spring. The fruit is a woody pod that contains multiple seeds. The roots of the tree are deep and help it withstand drought.
Uses of Schotia bequaertii
Schotia bequaertii has several uses. The bark and roots of the tree are traditionally used for medicinal purposes. Infusions of the bark are used to treat fever, stomach ailments, and respiratory conditions, while the roots are used for toothache relief. The leaves of the tree are used as fodder for livestock, and farmers often plant it as a shade tree in grazing lands. Additionally, the tree is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its beautiful and vibrant flowers.
Cultivation and Conservation
Schotia bequaertii is a hardy tree that grows well in sandy soils and is tolerant of drought, frost, and fire. It can be propagated by seed or cuttings and is relatively easy to cultivate. The species is widespread in its native range, and there are no known threats to its conservation status.
Growth Conditions for Schotia bequaertii (De Wild.) De Wild.
Schotia bequaertii (De Wild.) De Wild. is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly known as the Drunk Zulu or Tree Fuchsia and can grow up to 10 meters high. The plant is mostly found in Southern Africa, specifically in Botswana, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.
Light Requirements
Schotia bequaertii requires full sunlight to thrive. Therefore, it is commonly found growing in grasslands, riverbanks, and savannas. The plant should be planted in a location that receives direct sunlight for at least 6 to 8 hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
Schotia bequaertii can withstand a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers a warm climate. The best temperature range for the plant to grow optimally is between 25°C to 30°C. The plant can survive in temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 40°C, but temperatures below 5°C can cause severe damage.
Soil Requirements
The soil should be well-draining and fertile. Schotia bequaertii prefers neutral to slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate sandy, loamy, or clay soil types as long as they are well-drained. The plant cannot survive in waterlogged or poorly-drained soil.
Organic matter should be added to the soil before planting. Good mulching practices can help maintain soil moisture and suppress weed growth. Schotia bequaertii is moderately tolerant of drought conditions but will require more water during the first year of planting.
Cultivation methods
Schotia bequaertii, commonly known as the Drunk Parrot or Bird-Plum, is native to Africa. This plant species prefers well-draining soils in a location that has full sun or light shade. It is a slow grower and tolerates drought conditions well. It does not tolerate waterlogged soils and can die if overwatered.
Watering needs
The Drunk Parrot requires moderate watering during the growing season. It should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions and soil structure. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. During the dormant period, which is in the winter, watering should be kept to a minimum.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize Schotia bequaertii once a year in the early spring. An organic matter-based fertilizer with a ratio of NPK 3-1-5 is ideal for this species. Application rates should follow the manufacturers' recommendations, and care should be taken not to over-fertilize, which can lead to nutrient burn.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for Schotia bequaertii, but it can be shaped to the desired size and form. Trimming should be done in the early spring after flowering has finished. It is essential to avoid pruning during the winter season as this can cause dieback. Dead and diseased branches should be removed promptly to prevent them from spreading to healthy sections of the plant.
Propagation of Schotia bequaertii (De Wild.) De Wild.
Propagation is the process of increasing the number of plants of a particular species or variety. For Schotia bequaertii (De Wild.) De Wild., there are several methods of propagation, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for Schotia bequaertii (De Wild.) De Wild. Seed propagation can be done in two ways:
- Direct sowing of seeds in the field: Seeds are sown directly into the ground in prepared seedbeds or containers. This method is only suitable for planting in the field and is often used in large-scale plantations.
- Seeds germination in containers: Seeds are sown in containers filled with a mixture of soil and organic materials. The containers are then kept moist and placed in a warm and shaded area until germination occurs. Once the seedlings are big enough, they are transplanted into the field or individual pots for further growth.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another method of propagation used for Schotia bequaertii (De Wild.) De Wild. It involves taking cuttings from the parent plant and then planting them into the soil or a growing medium.
The two main types of cuttings are softwood and hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken from the current season’s new growth and are planted during the spring and summer. Hardwood cuttings are taken from mature wood during the dormant season and are planted during late autumn or early winter.
Air Layering
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Schotia bequaertii (De Wild.) De Wild. Air layering involves making a cut in the branch of the parent plant, and then wrapping a moist growing medium around the cut area. The branch is then wrapped with plastic, which is sealed at each end to create a humid environment. Once roots have formed, the rooted branch is cut from the parent plant and planted into soil or a growing medium.
Regardless of the method chosen for propagation, Schotia bequaertii (De Wild.) De Wild requires care and attention in the early stages of growth to ensure that the young plants establish well and grow vigorously.
Disease Management
The Schotia bequaertii plant is prone to various diseases that can affect the growth and development of the plant. Some of the common diseases include:
- Leaf spots: Small brown or black spots on the leaves.
- Blight: The leaves turn yellow or brown, wilt and eventually die.
- Fungal infections: Fungal infections can cause leaf and stem rot and wilt.
Pest Management
The Schotia bequaertii plant is also vulnerable to attack by various pests that can cause damage to the leaves, flowers, and fruits of the plant. Some common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow or brown.
- Thrips: These pests also suck the sap from the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow or brown and become deformed.
- Scale insects: These pests form a hard, protective coating on the plant, making them difficult to remove. They can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off.
