Introduction
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. is a plant that belongs to the family of Loganiaceae. It is a rare plant species that offers several health benefits to human beings. In this article, we will be discussing the origin, common names, uses, and general appearance of Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign.
Origin and Common Names
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. is native to Angola, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and Sierra Leone. It is a climbing plant that can grow up to ten meters long. The plant is known by many common names, including Okwata in Bantu, Baphia in Côte d’Ivoire, and Olomukoi in Kenya.
Uses
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. has several uses in traditional medicine. The root extract of this plant is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties that make it an excellent remedy for arthritis, rheumatism, and other related ailments. In addition, the plant’s fruit pulp is edible and can be consumed fresh or dried.
Interestingly, Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. is used by various African cultures as a natural remedy for treating snake bites. They believe that the plant has potent antivenom properties that can cure snake bites.
Furthermore, the plant’s bark is often used to make a decoction that is used to cure dysentery, diarrhea, and fever. The decoction is also believed to stimulate appetite and promote digestion.
General Appearance
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. is a climbing plant that can grow up to ten meters long. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oval-shaped, with pointed tips that can measure up to 10 cm in length. The plant produces greenish-white flowers that have a pleasant fragrance and are about 2 cm in diameter.
Once the plant’s flowers are pollinated, they develop into small, round, and green fruits that can grow up to 8 cm in diameter. The fruit pulp is sweet, juicy, and edible and contains small seeds.
In conclusion, Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. is a valuable plant species that has been used as a natural remedy for various ailments. The plant’s unique properties have made it a significant part of traditional medicine in Africa.
Growth Conditions of Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign.
Light: Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. requires bright, indirect sunlight to grow optimally. Direct sunlight may scorch its leaves, and too little light may result in slow growth or even death.
Temperature: This plant species prefers warm temperatures around 20-25°C during the growing season. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10°C can cause damage to the plant. High temperatures above 35°C may also be detrimental to growth.
Soil: Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH of the soil should be slightly acidic, around 6.0-6.5. A recommended soil mix for this plant is 1 part perlite, 1 part vermiculite, and 2 parts peat moss.
Water: This plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so it is important to ensure good drainage. It requires regular watering during the growing season, but the frequency should be reduced in winter. When watering, it is important not to let the soil dry out completely.
Fertilizer: Fertilizing Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. once a month during the growing season can help to promote healthy growth. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Humidity: This plant does not require high humidity levels, but it will benefit from occasional misting or placing a tray of water nearby to increase the humidity around the plant.
Cultivation Methods:
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. is a tropical plant that grows well in warmer temperatures. It grows best in full sun and well-draining soil. It is also tolerant of some humidity and can thrive in a tropical or subtropical climate. The plant is typically propagated by seeds or stem cuttings.
Watering Needs:
Watering should be done moderately to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Excessive moisture can lead to root rot, so it is important to promptly drain any excess water that accumulates in the soil. During the growing season, watering should be done about once a week or as needed. In the winter months, water should be reduced to prevent overwatering.
Fertilization:
To promote healthy growth and flowering, it is recommended to fertilize Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every 2-3 months during the growing season. The fertilizer should be applied at the base of the plant and watered in thoroughly. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months as the plant is dormant and does not require as much nutrition.
Pruning:
The plant can benefit from occasional pruning to improve its shape and promote more compact growth. Pruning should be done during the dormant period to avoid damaging new growth. Remove any dead or diseased wood and prune back overgrown branches to about a third of their length. Lightly trimming back the tips of the stems in the spring can also encourage bushier growth and more flowers.
Propagation of Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign.
Propagation of Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. can be done by several methods. The most popular ones include:
Seed Propagation
This method involves planting seeds that have been harvested from mature fruits. The seeds should first be cleaned and then soaked in water for about 24 hours. After soaking, they should be sown in a seedling tray filled with well-draining soil. The tray should be placed in a warm and humid area, and the soil should be kept moist until germination, which takes about 4-6 weeks. Once the seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly to the field.
Cuttings Propagation
This method involves taking cuttings from young, healthy stems of the Strychnos angolensis plant. The cuttings should be about 15 cm in length with 2-3 nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a pot filled with well-draining soil. The pot should be covered with a plastic bag to maintain high humidity, and the soil should be kept moist until rooting occurs, which takes about 3-4 weeks. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly to the field.
Air Layering
This method involves wounding a stem of the Strychnos angolensis plant by removing a ring of bark. The wound should be covered with rooting hormone and then wrapped in a moist sphagnum moss. The moss should then be covered with plastic wrap to maintain high humidity. After a few weeks, roots will develop from the wound, and the layered stem can be cut and planted in a pot or directly in the field.
Disease Management for Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign.
Several diseases can affect Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. Some of these diseases include:
- Leaf spot: This disease causes the leaves of the plant to spot and eventually die, reducing the photosynthetic capability of the plant. To manage this disease, it is advisable to remove affected leaves and provide proper drainage to reduce the frequency of leaf wetness.
- Powdery mildew: This disease causes white powdery spots on leaves and stems, leading to leaf distortion and reduced growth. To manage this disease, it is advisable to prune affected areas and apply fungicides to prevent further spread.
- Crown rot: This disease causes the roots to rot and eventually killing the entire plant. To manage this disease, it is advisable to remove the affected plant and ensure proper soil drainage and pH management. Rotation practice of crops for at least three years can also help manage this disease.
Pest Management for Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign.
Strychnos angolensis Gilg var. tisserantii P.A.Duvign. can be affected by various pests, including:
- Whiteflies: These pests suck sap from the leaves of the plant leading to leaf yellowing and stunted growth. To manage whiteflies, the use of insecticidal soap and neem oil-based repellents can help control their spread.
- Spider mites: These pests also suck sap from the plant, leading to leaf discoloration and mottling. Applying insecticides such as pyrethrins can help manage spider mites effectively.
- Caterpillars: These pests can devour the plant's leaves, leading to reduced growth. To manage caterpillars, it is advisable to handpick them or apply Bacillus thuringiensis-based insecticides.
Proper plant hygiene, including regular pruning, removal of dead or affected plant parts, and avoiding waterlogging, is essential in reducing the likelihood of pest infestation. The use of biological control measures, such as predator insects and birds, can also help manage pests effectively.
