Overview of Strychnos bakanko Bourquelet & Hérissey
Strychnos bakanko Bourquelet & Hérissey is a flowering plant from the family Loganiaceae. This plant is native to West Africa, particularly in the countries of Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo. It goes by many different names in the region, including 'Woonu' in Bambara, 'Olom' in Ngbaka, and 'Bikol' in Ewondo.
Appearance of Strychnos bakanko Bourquelet & Hérissey
The plant is a small tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall and is characterized by its smooth, gray bark. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and oval-shaped, while the flowers are small, white, and tubular. The fruit of Strychnos bakanko Bourquelet & Hérissey is a berry that is red when ripe and contains seeds that are oval-shaped, flat, and slightly curved.
Uses of Strychnos bakanko Bourquelet & Hérissey
The root bark of Strychnos bakanko Bourquelet & Hérissey has been traditionally used in West Africa for treating various ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and malaria. It is also believed to have aphrodisiac properties. In addition to its medicinal uses, the wood of the tree is also used to make furniture and other household items due to its durability.
However, it is important to note that the plant contains strychnine, a highly toxic substance that can cause convulsions, muscle stiffness, and death when ingested in high doses. Therefore, the use of Strychnos bakanko Bourquelet & Hérissey should be approached with caution and only under the supervision of a trained healthcare professional.
Light Requirements
Strychnos bakanko requires bright but indirect sunlight to grow well. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves and hinder the plant's growth. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in a shaded area or near a window that does not receive direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Strychnos bakanko growth is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F - 86°F). The plant will not grow well in temperatures below 15°C or above 35°C (59°F - 95°F). Avoid exposing the plant to cold drafts or sudden temperature changes, as it can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Strychnos bakanko prefers well-draining, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. It grows well in soil with a pH between 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excess moisture can lead to root rot. Allow the topsoil to dry out partially before watering the plant.
Cultivation of Strychnos Bakanko Bourquelet & Hérissey
Strychnos bakanko is a tropical plant that is widely cultivated for its medicinal value. It requires a warm and humid climate to thrive, with temperatures ranging between 22-30°C.
The plant prefers fertile, well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. It also requires partial shade for optimal growth.
Propagation can be done using seeds or stem cuttings. Seeds are sown in nurseries and transplanted when they develop four leaves, while stem cuttings can be rooted in a rooting hormone solution.
Watering Needs
Strychnos bakanko requires frequent watering, especially during the dry season. Water should be applied sparingly to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
It is essential to monitor the moisture content of the soil, and water the plant only when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can also contribute to the spread of diseases such as Phytophthora blight.
Fertilization
To ensure healthy growth and development of the plant, regular fertilization is essential. A balanced fertilizer containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended, and should be applied every three months.
The fertilizer should be applied at least 30 cm away from the base of the plant to prevent root damage. Applying too much fertilizer can also damage the plant, so it is important to follow the recommended dosage.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to promote a strong and healthy growth habit, as well as to remove dead or diseased branches and leaves. It should be done after harvesting or at the beginning of the wet season.
The plant should be pruned to maintain a compact shape, and all suckers and water sprouts should be removed. Thin out the plant by removing weak branches and cross-branching to promote air circulation. Repeated pruning will reduce the need for pesticides to control diseases.
Propagation of Strychnos bakanko Bourquelet & Hérissey
Propagation of Strychnos bakanko can be achieved through several methods, including seeds, cuttings, and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Strychnos bakanko can be collected from mature fruits, which are typically spherical, yellowish-green, and about 2-3 cm in diameter. The seeds are typically black, hard, and smooth. Propagation through seeds requires careful handling, sterilization, scarification, and stratification to enhance germination.
The seeds should be washed and sterilized by soaking them in a mixture of water and fungicide for several hours. The seeds should then be scarified using sandpaper or a file to remove the hard outer coat and enhance water absorption. After scarification, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before stratification at a temperature of about 25°C for 21-45 days.
The stratified seeds can then be sown in well-draining soil mix in pots or seed trays and covered with a thin layer of soil. The pots or trays should be kept in warm, humid conditions and protected from direct sunlight until germination occurs, which can take several weeks to months.
Cutting Propagation
Cuttings of Strychnos bakanko can be taken from mature trees during the dormant season. Semi-hardwood cuttings, about 10-15 cm long, should be cut from the parent plant and treated with rooting hormone. The cuttings can then be planted in a moist, well-draining soil mix in pots or a nursery bed, covered with a plastic bag, and placed in partial shade.
The cuttings should be kept moist and misted regularly until they develop roots, which can take several weeks to months. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots or the field and cared for according to the plant's needs.
Vegetative Propagation
Strychnos bakanko can also be propagated vegetatively through air layering or grafting. Air layering involves creating a wound on a branch or stem, applying rooting hormone, wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss or plastic, and allowing roots to develop at the wound site before cutting and planting the newly rooted portion. Grafting involves splicing a shoot or bud from the desired plant variety onto a rootstock to create a new plant. These methods can be complex and require specialized knowledge, skills, and tools.
Disease Management of Strychnos bakanko Bourquelet & Hérissey
Strychnos bakanko Bourquelet & Hérissey is a plant species that is susceptible to a variety of diseases. Several fungal diseases such as leaf spot, stem and root rot, and powdery mildew can affect the plant. These diseases may cause wilting, discoloration, and dropping of leaves, leading to stunted growth and reduced fruit production.
To manage these fungal diseases, it is essential to practice good sanitation by removing infected plant parts and destroying them. The use of fungicides can also control or prevent the spread of these diseases. However, it is important to follow the instructions and safety guidelines when using any chemical products to avoid harming the plant or the environment.
Pest Management of Strychnos bakanko Bourquelet & Hérissey
Several pests can also cause damage to Strychnos bakanko Bourquelet & Hérissey. Common pests that may attack this plant include aphids, scales, thrips, and spider mites. These pests may cause deformation, discoloration, and defoliation of leaves, leading to reduced growth and fruit production.
The use of insecticides and regular monitoring can manage these pests effectively. Insecticides should be used according to the directions on the label, and it is essential to avoid harming beneficial insects that can help control pest populations. Cultural practices such as pruning and removing damaged plant parts can also prevent the spread of pests and diseases.
