Origin
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign. belongs to the Strychnos genus of the Loganiaceae family. It is indigenous to Sub-Saharan Africa, specifically in Tanzania, Angola, Zambia, and Malawi.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known by different names in different regions. In Tanzania, it is called "Mkalavilila" or "Mzajikimu", while in Zambia, it is known as "Mukolwe" or "Bradbery's green bark". In Angola, it is called "Mupabe" or "Mangalanga".
Uses
Various parts of this plant, including the bark, roots, and leaves, have been used for medicinal purposes. The bark is used for treating snakebites and as a remedy for stomach ailments, while the roots are used for curing fever and malaria. Additionally, the leaves can be boiled and used to treat skin wounds and other minor injuries.
Some communities also use the plant's bark for dyeing clothes and fishing nets. The dye obtained from the bark is usually brown or yellow and is suitable for dyeing cotton fabrics.
General Appearance
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign. is a medium to large-sized tree that can grow up to 30m tall. The plant has a straight trunk and a dense, spreading crown. The bark is smooth, grayish-brown color, and has distinctive green patches. The leaves are simple, obovate, or elliptic, dark green, and glossy. The fruit of the plant is a round, orange berry that contains seeds that are used for medicinal purposes.
This plant thrives in tropical climates and can be found in forests, woodlands, and savannas.
Light Requirements
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign. is a plant that thrives in moderate to high light conditions. The plant needs sunlight for photosynthesis and growth. If grown indoors, the plant should be placed near a window that receives direct sunlight for a few hours daily. For outdoor growth, the plant should be grown in areas exposed to sunlight, but not under direct sunlight, to avoid burning of the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 20 to 33 degrees Celsius. If the plant is grown in a colder environment, it may become dormant and stop growing. Low temperatures may also cause the plant to die. On the other hand, high temperatures may cause sun scorching, bud drop, or a reduction in flower and fruit production. The ideal temperature for the plant should be maintained consistently throughout the growing season to encourage optimum growth.
Soil Requirements
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign. thrives in well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. The plant does well in sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, the pH of the soil should be maintained between 6.6 and 7.5. It is essential to avoid waterlogged soils or soils that retain too much water, which can lead to the development of root rot. In such cases, it is recommended to plant the species in raised beds or containers with sufficient drainage holes.
Cultivation methods
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign. is a plant that can be found in Africa, particularly in countries such as Angola, Tanzania, and Zambia. The plant can thrive in different conditions, including semi-arid and tropical regions. To cultivate this plant, you need to start by selecting healthy seedlings from reputable nurseries. The plants prefer rich soils with good drainage and a slightly acidic pH of between 5.5 and 6.5. You can grow them in pots or on the ground.
Watering needs
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign. prefers moderate to high watering. It requires regular watering during the summer months when temperatures are high. Ensure that the soil in which the plant grows does not dry out completely between watering. In winter, reduce watering to avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to promote growth and flowering. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every three months. Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers such as compost or manure. During the growing season, apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer to promote leaf growth, and during the flowering season, apply phosphorus-rich fertilizer to promote flowering and fruiting.
Pruning
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign. requires pruning to prevent branch snapping and promote bushy growth. Prune the plant during the dormant season, which is usually in late winter or early spring. Cut back any dead or diseased branches, and thin out any crossing branches. Ensure that you use clean, sharp pruning shears to prevent damaging the plant. After pruning, dispose of the cuttings properly to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign.
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign., commonly known as Tanganyika orange, can be propagated by different methods including seed propagation, cuttings, and layering.
Seed propagation
Seeds should be collected from ripe fruits, which are generally spherical, orange, and about the size of a small apple. Seeds must be extracted from the fruit pulp, washed, and dried for a few days before sowing to ensure optimal germination. It is recommended to soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting. Once soaked, plant the seeds in a container filled with damp peat, sand, or vermiculite, and place it in a warm and humid environment, preferably under a shade to avoid direct sunlight exposure. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another method that can be used to propagate Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign. Softwood cuttings are the ideal type of cuttings, and must be taken from the new growth that appears in the early spring. The cuttings should be planted in a mixture of sand and peat, and placed in a warm, humid area under a shaded area. Cuttings should be kept moist and monitored until rooting occurs, which can take a few weeks.
Layering
Propagation by layering is another method which can be utilized to propagate Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign. Layering consists of bending a low branch towards the ground, making an incision in the bark, and fixing it in place using a peg. The incision needs to be covered in soil, which will trigger root formation. The new rooted plant can then be separated from the mother plant, and the process can be repeated with other branches.
Disease and Pest Management for Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign.
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign. is a plant species that is vulnerable to different types of diseases and pests. To protect the plant from harm and promote healthy growth, it is essential to identify common problems that may affect it and implement effective management practices. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that affect this plant species and suitable ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf spot: This fungus causes spots on the leaves, leading to defoliation and plant death in severe cases. To control leaf spot, remove and dispose of the infected leaves, avoid overhead irrigation, and ensure proper air circulation around the plant.
Root rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and results in the stunting of growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering the plant, remove and destroy infected plants, and avoid planting in overly wet or waterlogged soils.
Pests
Mealybugs: These pests suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. You can control mealybugs by removing and destroying the affected parts of the plant, spraying with insecticidal soap, releasing beneficial insects that prey on mealybugs, and ensuring proper pruning and watering practices.
Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the underside of the leaves, causing yellowing and mottling. To control spider mites, spray with a miticide, prune infested leaves, and ensure proper watering practices to avoid drought stress.
By implementing these management practices, you can protect your Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tanganykae P.A.Duvign. plant from diseases and pests, ensuring healthy growth and development for the plant.
