Overview
Secamone africana (Oliv.) Bullock, also known as African Milkweed or Monkey Rope, is a species of perennial climbing vine in the family Apocynaceae. It is native to tropical Africa, from Senegal to Ethiopia and south to Angola and Zimbabwe.
General Appearance
The plant has slender stems that can grow up to 15 meters in length. The leaves are simple, ovate-lanceolate, and alternate on the stem, measuring 5-12 cm long and 3-7 cm wide. The leaf surface is shiny and hairless, with a prominent midrib and pinnate venation. The plant also produces small, white, and fragrant flowers in clusters that are up to 2 cm in diameter. The fruit of the plant is a two-part follicle measuring 7-15 cm long and filled with numerous seeds.
Common Names
Secamone africana is commonly known as African Milkweed or Monkey Rope due to its latex sap, which is white and milky and can be used as a substitute for cow's milk. It is also known as Lemba in Swahili, and Tamous in Wolof.
Uses
The latex sap of the plant is used in traditional African medicine as a purgative, a remedy for snakebite and as an antidote for arrow and dart poisoning. It is also used in the treatment of various skin diseases, such as eczema and scabies. Additionally, the roots and stem bark contain alkaloids, which are used as a fish poison. The plant's attractive flowers and fruits are also prized by gardeners.
Light Requirements
Secamone africana typically grows best when exposed to bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the foliage and stunt growth. As such, a shaded area with filtered sunlight works best. Growing Secamone africana indoors requires placing it in a well-lit room with access to sunlight through windows.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth and development of Secamone africana falls between 20°C to 25°C. High temperatures of above 30°C can lead to leaf scorching and wilting. However, young plants may germinate and develop in temperatures minimum of 18°C. Overly cold temperatures that fall below 15°C may result in the plant becoming dormant, reducing the growth rate and the overall size of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Secamone africana prefers well-draining soils that are relatively fertile. Plants grown in heavy clay soils may struggle with root development due to poor aeration, while sandy soils tend to drain too quickly and are low in fertility. A pH range between 5.5 to 6.5 works well for this plant, and adding organic matter to the soil can be beneficial in improving soil structure, fertility, and water holding capacity.
Cultivation of Secamone africana
Secamone africana is an easy-to-grow plant that is excellent for gardens and home landscapes. It is a hardy, drought-resistant plant that can thrive well in most soil types and temperatures. Planting usually starts in early spring or fall when the soil is warm and moist.
The plant prefers full sunlight exposure, but it can also grow under partial shade. Therefore, when selecting the planting location, ensure it is well-draining, with rich, loamy soil, and has a good supply of nutrients.
Watering requirements
Secamone africana requires minimal watering, especially during its propagation stage. However, once established, the plant may require watering regularly during the growing season. Water the plant deeply to allow the water to reach the plant's roots.
During drought spells, the plant may need supplemental watering to prevent wilting. Nonetheless, overwatering the plant can lead to root damage, which may cause the plant to wither and eventually die.
Fertilization
Fertilizers can help boost plant growth, but they should only be applied in small amounts. Avoid overfertilizing the plant as it can lead to excessive growth and weak stems. During the growing season, apply a balanced fertilizer twice a month to help the plant grow optimally.
Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers such as compost, well-rotted manure, or worm castings to enrich the soil with nutrients. These organic fertilizers also help to retain moisture in the soil.
Pruning
Pruning Secamone africana is essential for maintaining the plant's shape and appearance. Prune the plant during late winter or early spring to remove dead, diseased, and damaged branches and stems. This will help spur new growth and increase the flowering rate.
It is important to use sterilized pruning equipment to avoid spreading diseases. You can sterilize the equipment by wiping them with alcohol or by using a bleach solution.
Overall, the Secamone africana is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions with proper care and cultivation. Follow these guidelines, and you will be rewarded with a healthy and vibrant plant that will enhance your garden or landscape.
Propagation of Secamone africana (Oliv.) Bullock
Secamone africana (Oliv.) Bullock, commonly known as African snail creeper, is a perennial subshrub native to Africa. It is a member of the Apocynaceae family and has ornamental and medicinal properties. Propagation of this plant can be done through different methods.
Seed Propagation
One of the most common methods of propagating Secamone africana is through seeds. It should be noted that the germination of these seeds can often be difficult due to their hard outer shells. To overcome this barrier, the seeds should be scarified (scratched or nicked) or soaked in warm water before sowing. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and lightly covered. They should be kept in a warm, humid environment with regular watering until they germinate, which can take up to a month.
Cutting Propagation
Another way to propagate Secamone africana is through cuttings. This method involves taking 4-8 inch cuttings from new growth and allowing them to root in well-draining soil in a warm, humid environment. The cuttings should only be taken in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler to reduce stress on the plant.
Air Layering Propagation
A more advanced method of propagation is air layering. This technique involves creating a small incision in the stem of the plant and inserting a toothpick or other small object to hold the area open. A rooting hormone should then be applied to the exposed area. Next, moist sphagnum moss is wrapped around the exposed area and covered in plastic wrap. After a few weeks, roots should begin to form in the moss. The plant can then be cut below the rooting area and planted in well-draining soil.
Propagation of Secamone africana can be a rewarding experience for gardeners. Through the use of seeds, cuttings, or air layering, these plants can be successfully propagated to create new specimens for the garden or to share with friends and family.
Disease Management
Secamone africana is susceptible to various diseases such as leaf spot, cankers, and root rot caused by fungal pathogens.
To manage leaf spot, affected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and the plant should be treated with a fungicide. To prevent cankers, avoid tree wounds, and treat them with a copper-based fungicide. Root rot can be prevented by ensuring the plant is not over-watered, and the soil is well-drained. Fungicides can also be applied to the soil.
Pest Management
Secamone africana can be affected by various pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Spider mites can cause discoloration and webbing on the plant, while mealybugs and scale insects can cause a decrease in plant vigor and yellowing of leaves.
To control spider mites, the plant can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Mealybugs and scale insects can be removed by hand or treated with insecticidal soap.
Regularly inspecting plants can help identify pests and diseases before severe damage occurs. Using appropriate cultural practices, such as providing optimal growing conditions and maintaining plant health, can prevent and help manage disease and pest problems in Secamone africana.
