Overview of Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less.
Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less., also known as the velvet bushwillow, is a plant species belonging to the family of Combretaceae, native to African countries such as Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. The plant is a small deciduous tree or shrub, which can grow up to 2-3 meters in height with a trunk diameter of 30 cm. It features an upright and round crown, a smooth grey bark, and alternate, lance-shaped and hairy leaves, which are green in color. The plant produces small but crowded, white or cream-colored flowers in the late summer season.
Common Names of Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less.
Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less. is commonly known by many names in the African regions. It is called Morogo wa lefume (Sesotho), Lekhoba (southern Sotho), Silk bushwillow, and Velvet bushwillow in the English language.
Uses of Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less.)
The plant has a broad range of uses, primarily in traditional medicine and food. The leaves, bark, and roots of the velvet bushwillow contain a range of chemical compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial properties. In traditional medicine, the plant extracts are used to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, fever, stomach ache, and respiratory infections. The bark and root extracts are also used as a mouthwash and to treat sore throats. Aside from its medicinal uses, the plant is an essential source of food for humans and wildlife. The leaves are cooked and eaten as a vegetable, while the tree's flowers provide nectar and pollen to bees and other pollinators, which helps in their honey production.
Appearance of Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less.
The Velvet bushwillow is a small, deciduous tree or shrub with a round and upright crown. When mature, it can grow up to 2-3 meters tall with a trunk diameter of 30 cm. The leaves of the plant are alternate, lance-shaped, and hairy with serrated edges, and they are green in color with a velvety texture. The stems and branches of the plant are smooth and grey while the inflorescence is small and crowded with white or cream-colored flowers blooming in late summer.
Light Requirements
Stilpnophyton axillare requires bright, filtered sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but excessive exposure to the direct sun can scorch the leaves and slow down growth. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in a spot where it can receive bright, indirect sunlight for at least 6-8 hours per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures and does best in a range between 60°F-80°F (15°C-27°C). It can tolerate lower temperatures but not below 50°F (10°C). During the winter, it is important to keep the plant away from cold drafts, as this can cause damage to the foliage and affect plant growth. Overall, maintaining warm and stable temperatures is crucial for the growth and development of Stilpnophyton axillare.
Soil Requirements
Stilpnophyton axillare prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and has a pH between 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be well-aerated, allowing excess water to drain out quickly. Adding perlite or sand to the soil mixture can improve drainage. Care should be taken not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases. Therefore, it is best to allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
Cultivation Methods for Stilpnophyton Axillare
Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less., also known as "Kizura" or "Kisambo," is a perennial herb indigenous to sub-Saharan Africa. Cultivating this plant is relatively easy, with a few guidelines to follow. To begin, grow Stilpnophyton axillare in well-draining soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter. Plant in a location with full sun exposure or partial shade, with access to consistent moisture but not overly wet conditions.
Watering Needs
Stilpnophyton axillare requires frequent watering during dry spells, particularly in the growing season. However, it's essential not to overwater the plant, as it can cause root rot and other problems. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry during the growing season, and reduce the watering schedule in the dormant or winter season.
Fertilization
Fertilize the Stilpnophyton axillare plants with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the early spring. The slow-release fertilizer ensures continuous nutrient uptake throughout the growing season. However, avoid excessive applications of fertilizers, as it can result in weak branching and reduced flowering.
Pruning
Prune Stilpnophyton axillare plants in the late fall or early spring to promote growth and enhance the plant's shape. However, avoid over-pruning, as it can result in a decrease in total biomass production. Remove dead or diseased stems, and cut back any excessively long branches. Additionally, if the plant becomes too dense, thin out the oldest and weakest stems.
Propagation of Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less.
Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less., commonly known as the forest stars, is a woody shrub native to Africa. It belongs to the family Sapotaceae, and it can grow up to 3-4 meters in height. This plant is known for its beautiful star-shaped flowers and its medicinal properties.
Propagation Methods
Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less. can be propagated by seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of the Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less. must be collected from ripe fruits. Once collected, the seeds must be cleaned and dried thoroughly. They can be stored in a cool and dry place until they are ready to be planted. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist. Germination occurs within 2-3 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less. can be propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy parent plants and treated with rooting hormone. The cuttings should then be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept in a warm and humid environment. Rooting occurs within 2-3 months.
Propagation by Layering
Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less. can also be propagated by layering. This is done by bending a low-growing branch towards the ground and burying it slightly under moist soil. The branch should be held in place using a stake or a rock. The buried portion of the branch will develop roots, and once rooted, it can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted.
Overall, the Stilpnophyton axillare (Thunb.) Less. is a hardy plant that can adapt to a variety of environmental conditions. With the right propagation method, this plant can be easily propagated and grown in your garden or greenhouse.
Disease and Pest Management for Stilpnophyton Axillare
Stilpnophyton axillare, commonly known as the yoke plant, is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, like any other plant, it is not entirely immune to these problems. To keep your Stilpnophyton axillare healthy and thriving, it is essential to be aware of the common diseases and pests that can affect it and come up with management strategies. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect your yoke plant, and how to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most prevalent diseases that affect Stilpnophyton axillare is root rot. Root rot is caused by the fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi, which thrives in waterlogged soil and causes the roots to rot, leading to wilting and death. The best way to manage root rot in your yoke plant is to ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. If you suspect that your plant is suffering from root rot, remove it immediately and transplant it in a new container with fresh soil.
Anthracnose is another common disease that can affect your Stilpnophyton axillare. This fungal disease is usually characterized by the appearance of dark spots on the leaves and stems, which eventually cause them to wither and die. To manage anthracnose, remove infected plants immediately and spray a fungicide on the remaining healthy plants, ensuring that they are well-ventilated. You should also avoid planting your Stilpnophyton axillare in areas with poor air circulation and overcrowding.
Common Pests
Mealybugs are one of the most common pests that can affect your yoke plant. They are usually found in clusters on the leaves and stems, sucking sap from the plant and causing it to wither. A simple workaround to this problem is to remove the affected parts of the plant and spray insecticidal soap on the remaining parts to keep the insects at bay.
Scale insects are another common pest that can affect your Stilpnophyton axillare. They typically feed on the sap of the leaves and stems, causing them to turn yellow and eventually fall off. You can manage scale insects by using a soft brush to remove them physically or by spraying insecticidal soap or oil on the affected parts.
To ensure that your Stilpnophyton axillare remains healthy, it is necessary to regularly inspect it for signs of pests and diseases. With early detection and prompt management, you can prevent the problem from escalating and keep your plant looking its best.
