Origin
Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign. is a flowering plant species that is native to the Southern African regions, including Mozambique, Namibia, and South Africa.
Common Names
This plant species goes by different common names, including the Natal orange, kangaroo apple, and mocking thorn.
Uses
Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign. has different medicinal and nutritional uses. Its seeds are used to produce oil to remedy skin diseases and wounds. The seeds can also be processed to produce a semisolid fat used as a body rub to boost blood circulation. The bark of this plant can be ground and used as a black dye for clothing. Furthermore, the plant's fruit can be used to make a refreshing beverage or jelly.
General Appearance
Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign. is a small tree or shrub, growing up to 6 meters tall. It has a dense and spreading crown, with a thick, rough, and dark-brown bark. The leaves of this plant are simple, glossy, and dark green, with a smooth texture, while its flowers are small, white, and fragrant. The fruit of Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign. is a bright red or orange, fleshy egg-shaped berry, containing many seeds embedded in a yellowish pulp.
Growth Conditions for Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign.
Light: Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign. typically grows in areas that receive full sun exposure but can also tolerate partial shade. As an understory tree, it has adapted to grow in low light levels and can survive in shaded areas if it receives diffused light.
Temperature: Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign. thrives in warm and humid climates and is most commonly found growing in tropical and subtropical regions. It grows best in temperatures ranging from 25-35°C (77-95°F) but can tolerate higher temperatures as well.
Soil Requirements: Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign. prefers moist, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 6.0-7.5. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-draining and not too compacted.
Additionally, it is important to note that Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign. requires adequate water during the growing season and does not tolerate drought well. It is also susceptible to frost damage if temperatures dip too low.
Cultivation methods
Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign. is a plant species that grows well in dry to semi-dry habitats. It requires a well-draining soil, preferably sandy-loamy and slightly acidic. Planting is best done during the rainy season in spring, with a spacing of 6-8 feet between plants. Seedlings can be grown in a nursery, preferably with partial shade, until they are ready for transplantation.
Watering needs
The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods with minimal watering. Young plants require more frequent watering, especially during the first few months. In dry seasons, it is recommended to water the plants at least once a week, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering, as it may cause root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign. does not require heavy fertilization, as it is adapted to thrive in nutrient-deficient soils. However, incorporating some well-rotted manure or compost during planting can help improve soil fertility. Additionally, applying a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of N:P:K of 10:10:10, once or twice a year, can enhance plant growth and development.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for this plant species, but it can help to keep it in shape and encourage lateral growth. Pruning is best done during the dormant stage, just before the onset of the rainy season. Dead or diseased branches should be cut, and any suckers that emerge from the base of the plant removed. Regular pruning can help to maintain the plant's size, enhance its health, and promote higher yields.
Propagation of Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign.
The plant Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign can be propagated through different methods as discussed below:
Seed Propagation
The plant's seeds are the main method of propagation. Ripe seeds should be collected and cleaned. The cleaned seeds should then be soaked for 24 hours in water with a substance like hydrogen peroxide to enhance germination. The seeds should then be planted in a seedling tray containing a well-draining seedling mix. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep the soil moist.
Germination usually takes between two and four weeks, and once the seedlings have developed their first set of leaves, transplant them to individual containers and place them in a well-lit area. Keep the soil consistently moist.
Root Cuttings Propagation
The plant can also be propagated through root cuttings. The best time to take root cuttings is in the dormant season. Select a healthy, vigorous plant and dig out the root cuttings. Cut the roots into several sections, each approximately 5-10cm long. Plant the sections horizontally into well-draining soil and cover with thin soil. Water the soil regularly and after a few weeks, new shoots can be noticed.
Vegetative Propagation
The plant can also be propagated through vegetative methods like grafting and stem cuttings. However, these methods are not recommended with Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign, as they are challenging and have a low success rate.
Once the plant has grown, care should be taken to maintain the plant's health. Water the plant regularly, and provide it with enough light and nutrients to help it grow well.
Disease and Pest Management for Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign.
Strychnos gonioides P.A.Duvign. is a medicinal plant commonly found in many parts of Africa. To maintain its productivity and yield, it is essential to protect it from pests and diseases. In this section, we will discuss common diseases and pests that affect the plant and suggest management strategies.
Common Diseases of Strychnos gonioides
Anthracnose: This fungal disease attacks the leaves and fruit of the plant. Symptoms include dark spots on leaves, and fruit rot. To manage this disease, use fungicides, maintain good drainage, and avoid overcrowding.
Root rot: This disease affects the roots, causing stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. Root rot is caused by fungi that thrive in water-logged soils. Ensure proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering to manage this disease.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew causes white powdery spots on leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, maintain good ventilation, avoid overcrowding, and use fungicides.
Common Pests of Strychnos gonioides
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small insects that suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing stunted growth, leaf yellowing, and wilting. To manage mealybugs, use insecticides or release natural predators such as ladybirds and lacewings.
Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and drop. To manage mites, maintain good plant hygiene, avoid overcrowding, and use insecticides.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars feed on the leaves of the plant, causing defoliation, stunted growth and reduced yield. To manage caterpillars, use insecticides or release natural predators such as parasitic wasps and birds.
Regular monitoring of Strychnos gonioides for signs of diseases and pests is critical in disease and pest management. Early detection leads to timely intervention, preventing the spread of diseases and damage by pests.
