Overview
Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb. is an evergreen tree species of the Ochnaceae plant family. It is a native to tropical Africa, specifically widespread in the eastern part of the continent. This plant species has various common names, including African milky stinkwood, bitter walnut, African oak, and Large-fruited Schrebera.
Appearance
The Schrebera macrocarpa tree has a medium to large-sized canopy, with a dense and bushy crown that provides sufficient shade. It can grow up to 35 meters in height, and its stem may measure up to 80 cm in diameter. The bark of the tree is rough, scaly, and gray-brown in color.
The leaves of this plant species are dark green, leathery, and lustrous. They are large, elliptical in shape, and arranged alternatively on the branches.
The flowers of the Schrebera macrocarpa have five petals that are yellow-green to white in color. The fruit of this plant species is a large, woody, and round capsule, which can grow up to 40 cm in diameter.
Uses
The Schrebera macrocarpa plant has several uses in traditional medicine, where almost all its parts (leaves, bark, and roots) are utilized. The leaves are used in treating fever, cough, and stomach complaints, while the bark and roots are used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and other ailments.
The plant also has several uses in woodwork, with its wood being used extensively in making furniture, veneers, and other decorative items. The fruit of the Schrebera macrocarpa tree also has commercial value, with the seeds having high oil content, which can be extracted for industrial use.
Additionally, this plant species is considered a valuable shade and ornamental tree, particularly in urban areas and public parks.
In conclusion, the Schrebera macrocarpa is a valuable plant species due to its medicinal properties, commercial uses, and aesthetic value. Its unique appearance and multiple uses make it an essential plant species, particularly in Africa, where it is native.Light Requirements
Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb. is a tropical plant that requires high levels of light to thrive. It grows best in areas that receive bright, indirect sunlight for at least six hours per day. However, it is important to protect the plant from direct sunlight as it can cause leaf burn.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb. is between 18°C to 27°C. It is important to avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 15°C, as it can severely damage the plant. In areas with colder temperatures, it is recommended to keep the plant indoors or in a greenhouse for protection.
Soil Requirements
Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb. prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. It requires regular watering to maintain soil moisture and should be fertilized at least once every three months during the growing season. It is also important to ensure that the plant is not waterlogged to avoid root rot.
Cultivation
Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb. is a sturdy plant that can adapt to many different growing conditions. It is typically grown in tropical or subtropical regions and prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH. The plant requires full sunlight or partial shade to thrive, and it can be grown in either a container or directly in the ground.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is critical to the health of Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb.. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as excess moisture can cause root rot. Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. Depending on the climate and humidity levels, the plant may need to be watered up to two or three times a week.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and flowering, Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb. should be fertilized during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be used, applying every two to three months. Over-fertilizing the plant can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers, so it is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Pruning
Pruning Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb. regularly can help to maintain its shape and promote flowering. Prune away any dead, damaged or diseased branches, cutting back to healthy wood. It is best to prune at the start of the growing season, then again towards the end of the flowering season. To promote bushier growth, pinch back the tips of young shoots.
Propagation of Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb.
Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb. is propagated mainly by seeds. However, stem cuttings are also used in some instances.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds are the most commonly used method for propagating Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb. Collect mature fruits from the tree, and then extract the seeds. Dry the seeds and sow them immediately in the nursery or planting location.
It's important to note that the seeds of Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb. may take a long time to germinate, and may require heat treatment and/or scarification to hasten the germination process. Seedlings are typically transplanted to their permanent location when they reach a height of approximately 15-20 cm.
Propagation by Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another method of propagating Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb. Select healthy stems with several nodes, and then cut them into pieces around 15-20 cm long. Dip the cuttings into a rooting hormone and then plant them in a nursery with appropriate soil mix and humidity.
Keep the cuttings moist and protected from direct sunlight until they have rooted and established. Transplant the rooted cuttings in their permanent location when they reach a height of approximately 15-20 cm.
Disease and Pest Management for Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb.
Schrebera macrocarpa Gilg & G.Schellenb. is a tree that is native to Sub-Saharan Africa. Commonly known as the African peach, it is known for its fruits that are edible and have medicinal properties. As with any plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can hinder its growth and reduce its yields. Here are some common pests and diseases that might affect the plant and the ways to manage them:
Common Pests
Fruit flies: Fruit flies are common pests that affect the African peach. They lay eggs on the fruit, which hatch into maggots and feed on the fruit, causing it to rot and drop prematurely. To manage fruit flies, one can use a yellow sticky trap, which traps the flies when they are attracted to the color yellow. One can also use insecticides, although this should be done with caution to avoid harming beneficial insects.
Aphids: Aphids are another common pest that affects the African peach. They feed on the plant sap, causing stunted growth and leaf distortion. To manage aphids, one can use neem oil, insecticidal soap, or a strong stream of water to dislodge them from the plant.
Mites: Mites are tiny pests that can be difficult to see with the naked eye. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaf discoloration, stunted growth, and reduced yields. To manage mites, one can use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introduce beneficial predators such as predatory mites.
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and fruits of the African peach. It causes dark, sunken lesions on the fruit, which can lead to premature fruit drop. To manage anthracnose, one can prune affected areas and dispose of them, and use a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the African peach. It causes a white powdery coating on the leaves, which can hinder photosynthesis and reduce the plant's growth. To manage powdery mildew, one can prune affected areas and dispose of them, and use a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Root Rot: Root rot is a disease caused by the fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi. It affects the roots of the African peach, causing them to rot and eventually die. To manage root rot, one should ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. One can also use a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
With proper management of pests and diseases, the African peach can thrive and produce healthy yields of fruits that have medicinal properties. It is important to monitor the plant regularly and take action as soon as pests and diseases are detected.
