Overview
Strychnos cinnabarina Gilg ex Hutch. & Dalziel is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Loganiaceae. It is commonly known by its local names, including Mlavu, Murumbi, and Tshikakalinga. This plant is native to tropical Africa, particularly found in Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Zambia.
Description
Strychnos cinnabarina is an evergreen shrub that typically grows up to 2-4 meters in height. It has a dense, spiny and bushy canopy that is covered with small leaves. The plant's bark is dark brown in color and has a smooth surface. Its roots are thick and woody, sometimes reddish-brown or black in color.
Uses
Strychnos cinnabarina has been used traditionally for its medicinal properties among various African tribes. It is known to have analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant's bark, root, stem, and leaves can be used to treat various ailments such as rheumatism, headaches, coughs, and fever.
The plant's wood is also used for making furniture, while its bark can be used to make ropes and baskets. The fruit of the plant is edible and has a sweet and sour taste. It is sometimes used to make jams.
Appearance
The leaves of Strychnos Cinnabarina are green and glossy, growing in pairs that are perpendicular to each other. The flowers bloom in clusters and are small and white in color, with a sweet fragrance. Its fruits are small, round, and yellow when ripe, measuring about 1 cm in diameter. The plant's seeds are hard and black in color, enclosed in a green fleshy pulp.
Overall, Strychnos cinnabarina Gilg ex Hutch. & Dalziel is a useful and beautiful plant that has served both medicinal and practical purposes in various African tribes for centuries.
Growth Conditions for Strychnos Cinnabarina Gilg ex Hutch. & Dalziel
Light:
Strychnos cinnabarina requires full to partial sunlight for proper growth. It can tolerate some shade, but excessive shade can stunt its growth and reduce its overall health. Therefore, it is best to plant this species in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.Temperature:
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 20-30°C (68-86°F) and can withstand temperatures up to 35°C (95°F). However, it cannot survive in freezing temperatures and requires protection from frost or cold drafts. Therefore, it is best to plant this species in a location with a mild to warm climate.Soil:
Strychnos cinnabarina grows well in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil's pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.0. It is essential to avoid waterlogged or compacted soil as it can damage the plant's root system. Therefore, it is recommended to use a mixture of sand, loam, and organic matter when planting this species.Water:
This plant requires moderate watering, and its soil should remain moist but not waterlogged. It is best to water it once or twice a week, depending on the soil's moisture content. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot, which can severely damage the plant.Fertilizer:
Strychnos cinnabarina benefits from regular fertilization during its growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal portions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal for this species. Fertilizing should be done every three to four weeks during the growing season, which usually starts in spring and ends in fall.Propagation:
Strychnos cinnabarina can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist until germination. Cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant, dipped in rooting hormone, and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Propagation is best done during the plant's active growing season.Cultivation
Strychnos cinnabarina is a beautiful tree that can be grown from seed or cuttings. It grows well in moist, well-draining soil and in areas with partial to full sun exposure. The plant requires a tropical or subtropical climate to thrive. Therefore, it is best suited for USDA zones 9b-12.
Before planting the seed or cutting, it is essential to prepare the soil by adding sufficient organic matter such as compost or aged manure. This process improves soil fertility and drainage.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is crucial for the growth and development of Strychnos cinnabarina. It requires regular watering during its active growth period. Young seedlings need more water, but established plants can tolerate dry periods. However, it is crucial to avoid waterlogging the soil as it can lead to root rot.
The best approach to watering is to allow the topsoil to dry out before watering it thoroughly. You can test the moisture level by sticking your finger 1-2 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, then it is time to water the plant.
Fertilization
Strychnos cinnabarina requires regular feeding to develop healthy foliage and abundant blooms. Regular applications of a balanced fertilizer with a higher content of potassium and phosphorus are ideal during the growing season. Fertilization should be reduced during the dormant season.
It is crucial to apply the fertilizer at the base of the plant and avoid getting it on the foliage as it can cause leaf burn.
Pruning
Pruning helps to remove damaged, diseased, and dead branches and enhances the overall appearance of the plant. It is best to prune after the flowering period to avoid reducing the number of blooms.
When pruning, use sharp and sterile pruning tools to avoid damaging the tree. Start by removing any diseased or damaged branches or branches that cross each other, creating a dense canopy. You can also prune to shape the tree to your desired form. However, it is essential to avoid excessive pruning that can stress the plant.
Propagation of Strychnos cinnabarina Gilg ex Hutch. & Dalziel
The plant Strychnos cinnabarina Gilg ex Hutch. & Dalziel, commonly known as cinnabar stainwood, can be propagated through various methods. However, it is essential to note that S. cinnabarina is an endangered species; therefore, propagation should be done with caution to preserve the species. The following are some of the propagation techniques used for S. cinnabarina.
Seed propagation
S. cinnabarina can be propagated through seeds. It is crucial to ensure that the seeds used are healthy and viable. S. cinnabarina seeds have hard coats to withstand harsh environmental conditions and, therefore, require scarification before planting. The seeds are soaked in warm water for a few hours or nicked with a knife to break the outer coat. After scarification, the seeds are sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The planting area should be kept moist, and germination occurs after one to two months.
Cuttings propagation
S. cinnabarina can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants during the active growth stage. The cuttings should have at least two nodes and be approximately 10 to 15 cm in length. The cuttings are dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings can be covered with a plastic bag or placed in a greenhouse to maintain high humidity levels. Roots should start to develop in four to six weeks.
Grafting propagation
Grafting is another propagation method used for S. cinnabarina, particularly for desired cultivars. The scion is obtained from a healthy plant and grafted onto a rootstock of a closely related plant. The rootstock should have similar growth habits and be disease-free. The graft union is covered to prevent dehydration, and the plant is kept in a greenhouse, protected from direct sunlight. The plant should be watered regularly and fertilized with a balanced fertilizer. After a few months, the plant is ready for transplantation.
Propagation of S. cinnabarina is crucial to conserve the species and maintain its genetic diversity. As previously noted, propagation should be done with care and only by experienced individuals or horticulturists to prevent endangering the species further.
Disease and Pest Management for Strychnos cinnabarina Gilg ex Hutch. & Dalziel
Strychnos cinnabarina Gilg ex Hutch. & Dalziel is a plant species that belongs to the Strychnos genus, which is known for its medicinal properties. Like any other plant, Strychnos cinnabarina is also susceptible to diseases and pests. Therefore, it is essential to take proper care of the plant to maintain its health and prevent any damage caused by pests or diseases.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that affect Strychnos cinnabarina are stem canker, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
- Stem Canker - This disease is caused by the fungus Fusarium solani and can cause the stem to turn black and eventually die. To manage stem canker, remove the infected parts of the plant and apply a fungicide.
- Powdery Mildew - This fungal disease appears as a whitish or grayish powder on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plant and apply a fungicide.
- Leaf Spot - This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora strychni and appears as brown spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and apply a fungicide.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Strychnos cinnabarina are mealybugs, spider mites, and scales.
- Mealybugs - These pests are small and white and usually found in groups on the stem or leaves. To manage mealybugs, remove them by hand or spray neem oil on the plant.
- Spider Mites - These pests are almost invisible to the naked eye, but their webbing is visible on the leaves. To manage spider mites, use a high-pressure water spray or insecticidal soap.
- Scales - These pests appear as small brown or white bumps on the leaves or stems. To manage scales, dab them with a cotton swab soaked in rubbing alcohol or use insecticidal soap.
It is essential to monitor Strychnos cinnabarina regularly to prevent and control any diseases or pests. Taking proper care of the plant by providing adequate sunlight, watering, and fertilization can also help prevent the plant from succumbing to diseases and pests. If the infestation is severe, seek help from a professional horticulturist or a certified arborist.
