Overview:
Sclerocroton cornutus (Pax) Kruijt & Roebers var. africanum Pax ex Engl., commonly known as the African Sclerocroton, is a plant species that belongs to the family of Euphorbiaceae. The plant is indigenous to African regions, particularly found in Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.
Appearance:
The African Sclerocroton is a small to medium-sized shrub that can grow up to a height of 3 meters. The plant has a grayish woody stem with numerous branches. The leaves of the African Sclerocroton are simple, alternate, and grow up to 9cm long and 5 cm broad. The leaves are green in color and have a distinctive hairy texture on both sides. The plant produces bright yellow flowers, which are unisexual and are found on axillary cymes that can reach up to 18 cm long. The fruit of the African Sclerocroton is a hard, densely pubescent schizocarp.
Common Names:
The African Sclerocroton is known by several names in different African regions. In Guinea, it is called "loumalen" while in Sierra Leone, it is known as "kpa-mankene". In Liberia, the plant is commonly known as "blema" and also "oey-yea". In addition, the plant is known to have many other local names in African languages such as Vai and Mende.
Uses:
The African Sclerocroton has several uses in traditional African medicine. The plant is believed to have various medicinal properties and is used to treat different ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and stomach pains. The roots of the African Sclerocroton are also used to treat snake bites. Additionally, the plant is used to make twine for household items. Moreover, the African Sclerocroton is an important plant for local people for making tools and weapons.
Light Requirements
Sclerocroton cornutus (Pax) Kruijt & Roebers var. africanum Pax ex Engl. is a plant that requires adequate light for optimal growth. It thrives in areas with bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing it in direct sunlight as it can cause its leaves to become scorched.
Temperature Requirements
This plant requires warm temperatures to flourish. Ideally, the temperature should be around 20-25°C (68-77°F) during the day, and 15-20°C (59-68°F) at night. Avoid exposing it to sudden temperature fluctuations as it can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. A soil mixture that combines potting mix, perlite, sand, and peat is ideal for this plant. The soil should also have a pH level between 6 and 7.5 to promote healthy growth. Ensure that the soil remains slightly moist at all times, without getting too saturated.
Cultivation of Sclerocroton Cornutus
Sclerocroton cornutus, also known as the African sausage tree, is a slow-growing tree that thrives in hot and semi-arid regions. It requires warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight to grow well. The tree prefers sandy soil, which is well-draining and has a slightly acidic pH of 6 to 7.5.
Watering Needs
During the first year of planting, the African sausage tree requires regular watering. You must water the tree weekly but avoid overwatering to prevent root rot. Once the tree matures, it can withstand drought, and therefore, you can water it less frequently. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch, and reduce watering during the winter season when the tree enters dormancy.
Fertilization
The African sausage tree requires regular fertilization to maintain its growth and health. You can apply fertilizer during the growing season, which is from late spring to early fall. Fertilize the tree before the rainy season because the rains will help wash the fertilizer into the root zone. Use a slow-release granular fertilizer that has a balanced N-P-K ratio. Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers like compost and manure, which are rich in nutrients.
Pruning
Sclerocroton cornutus requires minimal pruning because it grows slowly and has a naturally attractive shape. You can remove damaged, diseased, or dead branches at any time of the year. Light pruning can also be done to shape the tree and remove crossing branches. Prune only during the dormant season (winter) to avoid stimulating unwanted growth.
Propagation of Sclerocroton cornutus var. africanum
Sclerocroton cornutus var. africanum is propagated through seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds are the most common mode of propagation for Sclerocroton cornutus var. africanum. The seeds are sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept slightly moist and placed in a warm, bright location. Germination may take several weeks to months.
Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for a few hours to soften the seed coat. This will make it easier for the seedling to emerge.
Propagation by Cuttings
Sclerocroton cornutus var. africanum can be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from mature, woody stems in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be approximately 10cm long and dipped in rooting hormone.
The cuttings should be placed in well-draining soil and kept in a warm, bright location. The soil should be kept slightly moist. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
It is important to note that Sclerocroton cornutus var. africanum has a poisonous sap that can cause skin irritation and is toxic if ingested. Appropriate precautions should be taken when handling the plant.
Disease Management
Sclerocroton cornutus is relatively resistant to diseases. However, it may still experience some problems that require management.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can affect the leaves, stems, and fruits of the plant. It is characterized by dark spots or lesions that may have a sunken appearance. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant material and avoid overhead irrigation. Applying a copper-based fungicide can also help to control the disease.
Root Rot: Root rot is a soil-borne disease caused by fungi that attack the roots of the plant. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing and wilting of leaves, stunted growth, and a general decline in the plant's health. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage in the soil and avoid overwatering. If the disease does occur, remove and destroy infected plants and replant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Pest Management
Sclerocroton cornutus may be affected by a range of pests that can cause significant damage to the plant.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves, as well as webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, use a strong stream of water to wash them off the plant or apply a pesticide labeled for spider mite control.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant and feed on sap. They can cause yellowing of leaves and a general decline in the plant's health. To manage scale, remove and destroy heavily infested plant material and apply a horticultural oil spray to suffocate the remaining insects.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are soft-bodied insects that can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. They are also known for producing a sticky substance called honeydew that can attract other pests. To manage mealybugs, apply a systemic insecticide as directed on the label.
Regular monitoring of the plant for signs of disease or pest infestation can help to catch problems early and prevent them from spreading. It is also important to maintain overall plant health through proper watering, fertilization, and pruning practices.
