Origin
Streblus usambarensis, commonly known as the Usambara rubber tree or Mtondo in Swahili, is a species of flowering plant that is native to East Africa. It can be found growing naturally in Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda, particularly in the Usambara and Pare mountain ranges.
Common Names
Apart from Usambara rubber tree, Streblus usambarensis has several other common names such as African sandpaper tree, ugili in Swahili, and mululu in Taita.
Uses
Streblus usambarensis has several uses in traditional medicine. The bark is boiled or soaked in water to make a decoction used to treat a range of ailments such as diarrhea, stomachaches, and gonorrhea among others. The plant's leaves have also been used to reduce fever.
The bark of the Usambara rubber tree is well-known for its strong fibrous qualities, and it has been used by the indigenous people of East Africa for centuries to make rope. The bark is also used by local communities for building huts and making baskets.
General Appearance
The Usambara rubber tree is a medium-sized evergreen tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall. The tree's bark is dark brown and becomes deeply fissured with age. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical in shape, with a glossy, dark green upper surface and rough, sandpaper-like underside. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and they are borne in clusters. The fruit is a small, round drupe that turns from green to black when ripe.
Overall, Streblus usambarensis is an important tree species in East Africa due to its cultural, medicinal, and economic significance.
Light Requirements
The plant Streblus usambarensis requires ample amounts of sunlight to grow properly. It is classified as a sun-loving plant and prefers exposure to direct sunlight for several hours each day. Lack of sufficient sunlight exposure can lead to stunted growth and poor development of leaves.
Temperature Requirements
Given that this plant is native to tropical regions of Africa, it requires high temperatures for proper growth. The ideal temperature for Streblus usambarensis is between 20°C and 30°C. Temperatures outside this range can negatively affect growth, and lower temperatures can lead to the dropping of leaves and overall poor growth.
Soil Requirements
This plant prefers well-draining soil, with a slightly acidic pH range of 5.5-6.5. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it thrives in soils that are rich in organic matter and that retain moisture without becoming waterlogged. A consistent supply of water is also essential for the optimal growth of Streblus usambarensis.
Cultivation methods for Streblus usambarensis (Engl.) C.C.Berg
Streblus usambarensis (Engl.) C.C.Berg is a beautiful shrub that is easy to cultivate. It can grow in a wide range of soil types but thrives best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. When selecting a site for planting, choose an area that receives bright, indirect sunlight.
It is important to allow enough space for the shrub to spread during its growth period. Space each plant at least two feet apart to allow for proper growth and development without congestion. After planting, water the shrub well, and ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Watering needs for Streblus usambarensis (Engl.) C.C.Berg
Watering is critical, especially during the establishment period when the roots are still developing. During this period, ensure that the soil is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once the shrub is established, water it deeply once a week, more frequently in hot, dry weather or if the soil is sandy.
It's important to note that overwatering Streblus usambarensis (Engl.) C.C.Berg can lead to root rot and other diseases that can severely damage the shrub. Therefore, always check the soil moisture level before watering to avoid overwatering.
Fertilization for Streblus usambarensis (Engl.) C.C.Berg
Streblus usambarensis (Engl.) C.C.Berg requires regular fertilization to maintain its health and promote growth. Fertilize the shrub with a balanced fertilizer rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium every six weeks during the growing season.
To avoid root burn, follow the correct fertilizer application rate, based on the manufacturer's instructions. Also, avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the shrub is dormant.
Pruning for Streblus usambarensis (Engl.) C.C.Berg
Pruning Streblus usambarensis (Engl.) C.C.Berg is necessary to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune the shrub in late winter or early spring before new growth starts.
Remove all dead, diseased, or damaged branches and trim back any excessive growth to promote a healthy shape. Ensure that all cuts are made at an angle to prevent water from accumulating on the pruning wound. Always use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid injuring the shrub.
Propagation of Streblus usambarensis (Engl.) C.C.Berg
Streblus usambarensis is native to East Africa and commonly known as the Toothbrush Tree due to its twigs being used as toothbrushes. The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and is typically propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Seed Propagation
Collect mature seeds from the fruit when they are ripe. Clean them thoroughly in water, removing any remaining fleshy pulp. Once ready, sow the seeds in a pre-moistened seed-starting mix. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep them in a warm, moist place. Seeds should germinate within 1-3 months.
Vegetative Propagation
Streblus usambarensis can also be propagated by vegetative methods such as cuttings. Take cuttings from a healthy stem about 10-20 cm long and remove all the leaves except two or three at the top. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a pot filled with potting soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, bright location. Roots should develop within a few weeks.
Air Layering
Air layering is another vegetative method that can be used to propagate Streblus usambarensis. To do this, select a healthy stem and make a small cut through the bark about 10 cm from the tip. Dust the wound lightly with rooting hormone and wrap it with sphagnum moss. Finally, wrap the waxed moss with plastic wrap and secure it in place. Roots should form in the moss, and once they do, cut the stem below the new roots and plant it in moist potting soil.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, it is essential to provide the seedlings or new plants with the appropriate environmental factors like warmth, light, and proper soil conditions. Once the plants have established, they can be transplanted into the garden or a suitable container.
Disease and Pest Management for Streblus usambarensis (Engl.) C.C.Berg
Streblus usambarensis is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of environmental conditions. However, it is still susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests, which can affect its growth and overall health.
Diseases
One common disease that affects Streblus usambarensis is root rot, which is caused by a fungal pathogen. This disease can be difficult to manage, but proper drainage and soil aeration can help prevent its occurrence. Another disease that affects this plant is leaf spot, which is characterized by circular lesions on the leaves. This disease can be controlled by removing infected leaves and applying a fungicide as directed.
Pests
Streblus usambarensis can also be affected by a range of pests, including aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and overall growth of the plant. One way to manage these pests is to use natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, to control their populations. Additionally, regular applications of insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control these pests.
Finally, scale insects can also be a problem for Streblus usambarensis. These pests are difficult to control, but physical removal with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol can help manage their populations. Additionally, regular pruning and maintenance can help prevent the occurrence of pest infestations.
Overall, proper disease and pest management is crucial for the health and growth of Streblus usambarensis. By taking preventative measures and promptly addressing any issues that arise, gardeners can keep this plant thriving in their garden or landscape.
