Overview of Sesamothamnus Guerichii
Sesamothamnus guerichii (Engl.) E.A.Bruce is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Capparaceae. It is also known by several other names, such as desert date, butter tree or Egyptian myrrh. This plant is native to the deserts of Egypt, Sudan, and Somalia, and grows as a shrub or small tree, usually found in arid regions. Sesamothamnus guerichii is known for its diverse medicinal uses and oil extraction from its seeds.
Appearance of Sesamothamnus Guerichii
The plant is usually 2 to 5 meters tall, with greyish-brown bark, spiral leaves and yellow flowers which bloom from July to August. The fruit of Sesamothamnus guerichii is a three-lobed capsule, each lobe containing three to five seeds. The seeds are small (3-5 mm) and black, and contain a high amount of oil (up to 55% by weight).
Uses of Sesamothamnus Guerichii
Sesamothamnus guerichii has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes. The plant contains significant amounts of flavonoids, which have been shown to exhibit antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. The extract of Sesamothamnus guerichii has been used for the treatment of bronchial asthma and has been reported to have spasmolytic, anti-tussive, and sedative effects on the respiratory system.
The oil extracted from the seed of Sesamothamnus guerichii (known as Desert date oil) is high in unsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic and linoleic acids, and has been traditionally used in the cosmetic industry because of its moisturizing, nourishing, and anti-aging effects. It can also be used for cooking and as a lamp fuel since it is a non-drying oil that burns cleanly.
In addition, the wood of Sesamothamnus guerichii is mainly used for fuel and charcoal production since it is a deciduous plant that easily regenerates.
Conclusion
Sesamothamnus guerichii is a valuable plant with many uses, making it an important resource in the areas where it grows. Its medicinal benefits, exotic oils, and fuel properties make it a versatile and valuable resource for the local population and beyond.
Typical Growth Conditions for Sesamothamnus guerichii
Sesamothamnus guerichii (Engl.) E.A.Bruce is a shrub native to the African Sahel region and can grow up to 3 meters tall. It is also commonly known as "desert date" due to the resemblance of its fruit to the date palm.
Light Requirements
Sesamothamnus guerichii requires full sun exposure to grow optimally. It can tolerate partial shade, but growth may be stunted, and fruiting may be reduced.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is well adapted to hot and arid environments and requires temperatures within the range of 20-40°C (68-104°F) to grow optimally. Frost and extreme cold temperatures can damage the plant and reduce its growth and productivity.
Soil Requirements
Sesamothamnus guerichii can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant can tolerate high levels of salinity and alkalinity, making it well-suited for growing in desert environments. However, it prefers well-draining soils with a pH between 6.0 and 8.5.
The soil should be rich in nutrients, especially nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These can be added to the soil through fertilization using organic matter or chemical fertilizers.
In summary, Sesamothamnus guerichii is a hardy shrub that can grow in hot and arid environments with full sun exposure. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including those with high levels of salinity and alkalinity. Soil should be well-draining and rich in nutrients. Temperature requirements fall within the range of 20-40°C (68-104°F).
Cultivation
Sesamothamnus guerichii is a woody perennial plant that is native to Africa. It thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and has a pH range of 6.0-7.5. This plant prefers to be grown in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Propagation of Sesamothamnus guerichii can be done through seeds or cuttings. The best time to plant seeds is during the early spring when the temperature is warm enough to promote germination. Cuttings, on the other hand, can be taken during the summer when the plant is actively growing.
Watering Needs
When it comes to watering Sesamothamnus guerichii, it is important to strike a balance between keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. A good way to do this is by allowing the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. During the hot summer months, this plant will require more frequent watering.
If you are growing Sesamothamnus guerichii in a container, ensure that there is adequate drainage to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom of the pot, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Sesamothamnus guerichii does not require a lot of fertilization but can benefit from an occasional boost of nutrients. A slow-release fertilizer that is high in phosphorus can be applied in the spring to promote healthy root growth and flowering.
Compost or well-rotted manure can also be added to the soil to provide additional nutrients to the plant. However, care should be taken not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to leaf burn.
Pruning
Sesamothamnus guerichii can be pruned to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning is best done during the winter months when the plant is dormant. Remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossing branches that may be competing for space.
If the plant is growing too tall, it can be cut back to a manageable size. However, avoid cutting back more than one-third of the plant's overall size as this can cause stress and affect its ability to flower.
Propagation of Sesamothamnus guerichii (Engl.) E.A.Bruce
Sesamothamnus guerichii (Engl.) E.A.Bruce is a plant that can be propagated either through seeds or cuttings. The success rate of propagation depends on various factors, such as the method used, the time of year, and the environmental conditions.
Propagation by Seeds
The propagation of Sesamothamnus guerichii by seeds can be done through harvesting the mature seeds during the dry seasons. The mature seed pods will dry and crack open on their own, and the seeds will be ready to be collected and stored.
The collected seeds should be cleaned and sown in well-draining soil. The seeds should be buried at a depth of 1-2 cm and watered regularly. The ideal time for sowing is during the onset of the rainy season when soil moisture is high.
The seeds will germinate in three to four weeks, with a germination rate of approximately 70 percent. The seedlings should be transplanted to individual pots once they have developed their first set of true leaves.
Propagation by Cuttings
Sesamothamnus guerichii can also be propagated using cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from young, healthy shoots and should be approximately 10 cm in length.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mixture consisting of sand, peat, and perlite in equal parts. The cuttings should be kept in a warm environment with high humidity to promote root growth.
After a few weeks, the cuttings should have developed a root system, and they should be transplanted into individual pots filled with an appropriate soil mixture. The transplanted cuttings should be kept in a warm, semi-shaded area while continuing to water regularly.
Disease Management
Sesamothamnus guerichii is a hardy plant and is generally not affected by many diseases. However, below are some common diseases known to affect this plant and their management:
Leaf Spot and Blight
Symptoms include the appearance of dark spots on leaves followed by browning and wilting. To manage leaf spot and blight, prune all infected parts of the plant and remove them safely. Use a fungicide spray to keep the disease from spreading. Ensure the plant is not overcrowded and has proper drainage.
Root Rot
Symptoms include wilting, yellowing, and soft roots. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage. If the plant contracts root rot, remove it from the soil, remove all dead plant matter and wash roots thoroughly with a fungicide solution before repotting.
Pest Management
Sesamothamnus guerichii are also relatively pest-resistant. Below are some common pests known to affect this plant and their management:
Spider Mites
Symptoms include yellow spots on leaves, webbing on plant parts and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, prune all infected parts, apply a volatile organic compound, use insecticidal soap, or a mixture of alcohol, water and soap. Keep plant moist but avoid overwatering.
Mealybugs
Symptoms include whitish cotton-like masses on the leaves and stems and stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, prune all infected parts, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or use a combination of rubbing alcohol and water. Keep plant well-moistened to avoid infestation.
