Overview
Schrebera golungensis Welw. is a plant species belonging to the Oleaceae family. It is a tropical tree that grows in various regions of eastern and central Africa, including Angola, Cameroon, Gabon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. The plant is also known by its common name, Golungensis.
Physical Characteristics
The Schrebera golungensis tree has a trunk that can grow up to 15 meters in height, with a diameter of up to 60cm. The bark is dark brown, and the leaves are arranged alternately and have a shiny green color. The leaves tend to be oval-shaped with pointed tips, and they can grow up to 10cm long. The tree produces small, white flowers that are around 1cm in diameter. These flowers form into a yellowish-green fruit that is up to 3cm long and contains a single seed.
Traditional Uses
Schrebera golungensis has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes. The bark, leaves, and roots are commonly used in local communities to treat different ailments, such as fever, malaria, and diarrhea. The bark is also used to treat stomach problems, while the roots are used to alleviate toothaches. In addition, the plant's bark and leaves are used for their antiseptic properties to help heal wounds.
Commercial Uses
The wood of Schrebera golungensis is strong and durable, making it valuable for different commercial uses. It is commonly used in the manufacturing of furniture, building materials, and as fuelwood. The seeds of the tree are also used in the production of soap and cosmetics.
Conservation Status
The conservation status of Schrebera golungensis is currently listed as vulnerable. The tree's habitat is declining due to deforestation for agriculture, logging, and human settlements. Conservation efforts are being undertaken to ensure the sustainability of the species and to protect its medicinal and economic value for local communities.
Growth Conditions for Schrebera golungensis Welw.
Schrebera golungensis Welw. is a tropical tree species that is typically found in sub-Saharan Africa. Here are some details about the growth conditions that are ideal for this plant:
Light
The Schrebera golungensis Welw. tree requires full to partial sunlight to grow properly. It cannot thrive in full shade or low-light conditions. The plant needs enough sunlight to carry out photosynthesis, which is essential for the growth of the plant. Therefore, it should be planted in a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for the Schrebera golungensis Welw. tree is between 20°C-30°C (68°F-86°F). It is intolerant to frost and needs to be protected from low temperatures. Extremely high temperatures are also not suitable for the plant and can cause reduced growth and other stress-induced problems.
Soil Requirements
The Schrebera golungensis Welw. tree grows best in deep, well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH for the plant should be between 5.5 to 7.5. The plant also prefers soils that are slightly acidic. If the soil is too alkaline, the plant will not grow well. It is important to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot and other problems.
In summary, the Schrebera golungensis Welw. tree requires full or partial sunlight, a temperature range between 20°C-30°C, and deep, well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter and slightly acidic. Following these growth conditions can help ensure healthy growth and development for the plant.
Cultivation of Schrebera golungensis Welw.
Schrebera golungensis Welw. is a tropical plant that needs warm temperatures to grow successfully. It can be cultivated both in the garden and indoor pots as long as the minimum and maximum temperatures are maintained.
The plant thrives well in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged as waterlogging leads to root rot.
Propagation of Schrebera golungensis Welw. can be done through seeds, cuttings, and grafting. Using the cutting method is the most effective way of propagating the plant.
Watering needs of Schrebera golungensis Welw.
Schrebera golungensis Welw. requires regular watering, especially when it is adequately established. The plant should be watered twice a week, but the frequency may change depending on the soil type and species of the plant.
In periods of extreme dryness and high temperatures, the plant may require daily watering, while in winter, it needs less frequent watering.
Fertilization of Schrebera golungensis Welw.
Schrebera golungensis Welw. requires sufficient nutrients to grow and produce lush foliage. You can use organic or inorganic fertilizers to meet the plant's nutritional requirements.
The best time to add fertilizer is during the growing season, in spring and summer. Apply fertilizer every two weeks during this period to stimulate growth and promote healthy foliage.
Pruning of Schrebera golungensis Welw.
Pruning is essential for Schrebera golungensis Welw. as it helps to remove dead or diseased branches and maintain the plant's shape and size.
Pruning is best done towards the end of the growing season, in autumn or early winter. Cut back dead or diseased branches, and trim any unwanted stems or leaves. Avoid cutting off more than a third of the plant as this can damage its growth and development.
Propagation of Schrebera golungensis Welw.
Schrebera golungensis Welw. can be propagated through various methods depending on the desired outcome and availability of materials. The following are some of the most common methods used for propagating this plant species:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used to propagate Schrebera golungensis Welw. This method involves collecting mature fruits from the parent plant, removing the pulp, and exposing the seeds to water for 24-48 hours before sowing. Sowing should be done in a well-draining mix and under favorable conditions such as moist and warm temperatures. Germination usually takes about 14-21 days.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation involves taking stem cuttings from the parent plant, treating them with a rooting hormone and planting them in a well-draining mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and under shade until roots form, which usually takes about 4-8 weeks. Once the roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots and placed under full sunlight.
Air layering
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used to propagate Schrebera golungensis Welw. This method involves girdling a branch of the parent plant, wounding the bark and applying a rooting hormone. A ball of moist sphagnum moss is then wrapped around the wounded area and tied with a plastic bag to keep the moisture intact. Roots will develop in the moss ball, and once they have grown enough, the branch with the new roots can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted into a pot with a well-draining mix.
Dormant stem cuttings
Dormant stem cuttings involve collecting dormant stems during the winter season, treating them with a rooting hormone and planting them in a well-draining mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and under shade until roots form, which usually takes about 4-8 weeks. Once the roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots and placed under full sunlight.
Overall, Schrebera golungensis Welw. can be propagated through several methods with varying levels of success. However, seed propagation remains the most reliable and common method used to propagate this plant species.
Disease and Pest Management for Schrebera golungensis Welw.
Schrebera golungensis Welw. is a tropical tree species that has been reported to be affected by a range of diseases and pests. Inadequate disease and pest management can lead to significant yield losses. Therefore, it is essential to monitor and manage diseases and pests on this plant.
Common Diseases
The yellowing of leaves, defoliation, and wilting are common symptoms of Schrebera golungensis Welw. diseases. The following are some of the common diseases that affect the plant:
- Leaf spot: it is caused by fungi and characterized by brownish to black spots on the leaves, which may lead to defoliation.
- Anthracnose: it is caused by fungi and can cause leaf blight, defoliation, and fruit rot in severe cases.
- Root rot: it is caused by soil-borne fungi, and it results in rotting of roots, leading to wilting and death of the plant.
Disease Management
The following are some of the ways to manage Schrebera golungensis Welw. diseases:
- Practice crop rotation to reduce the buildup of soil-borne fungi.
- Avoid overhead irrigation that promotes the spread of fungal spores.
- Prune the diseased parts of the plant and dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Use fungicides to control fungal infections. However, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the safe and appropriate application of the product.
Common Pests
Schrebera golungensis Welw. is also affected by several pests, including:
- Termites: they feed on the roots and stem of the plant, leading to wilting and stunted growth.
- Mealybugs: they suck plant sap, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves, stunted growth, and reduced yield.
- Leaf miners: they cause curling and yellowing of leaves, leading to reduced photosynthesis and growth.
Pest Management
The following are some of the ways to manage pests on Schrebera golungensis Welw.:
- Use biological control agents such as predatory insects to reduce pest populations.
- Use insecticides to control pests. However, it is essential to follow the instructions on the label and apply at the right time to avoid harming non-target organisms.
- Cultural practices such as clearing weeds and plant debris can reduce pest populations by eliminating their breeding sites.
Proper disease and pest management practices are essential for the growth and survival of Schrebera golungensis Welw. Asides from the above measures, proper plant nutrition, cleaning of farm tools, and early detection of diseases and pests can significantly improve the plant's growth and yield.
