Overview of Strychnos gossweileri Exell
Strychnos gossweileri Exell, commonly known as Gebangwe or Mloko, is a small tree that belongs to the Loganiaceae family. This plant is native to Tanzania, specifically in the Uluguru and Mahenge Mountains. It has been observed to grow in the submontane and montane regions of these mountains at elevations between 1600 to 1700m. The tree has been recorded to grow up to 8 meters tall with a trunk diameter that may reach up to 35 cm.
Appearance of Strychnos gossweileri Exell
The bark of the Strychnos gossweileri Exell tree has been described as smooth, pinkish-brown, and peels off in small flakes. The leaves are evergreen, alternate, elliptic, and are dark green on top and pale on the underside. They grow up to 17 cm long and 8 cm wide. The flowers of the plant are small, white, and present in distinct terminal inflorescences. The fruit is a woody capsule found in pairs, which contains up to four seeds each and is almost circular in shape and 8-12 cm in diameter.
Common Uses of Strychnos gossweileri Exell
The bark and roots of Strychnos gossweileri Exell contain alkaloids such as strychnine, brucine, and isostrychnopentamine. These compounds have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, such as treating wounds, fever, and other ailments. The bark of the tree has also been used as a natural pesticide. Additionally, the plant's timber is used for firewood and charcoal production, and the seeds are consumed by local communities as a source of food.
Despite its uses, Strychnos gossweileri Exell is also a highly threatened species due to the destruction of its habitat and over-exploitation for its medicinal properties. Therefore, conservation efforts are necessary to protect this valuable plant species and its ecological importance.
Light Requirements
Strychnos gossweileri is a tropical plant that thrives well in areas with bright but indirect sunlight. The plant requires a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight each day, and exposure to full sun for extended periods can damage its foliage.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Strychnos gossweileri is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C, but frost conditions can kill it. A drop in temperatures below 10°C can hinder the growth of the plant, and it's advisable to move it to warmer areas during such periods.
Soil Requirements
Strychnos gossweileri grows well in well-drained soils, with a pH range of 6.5 – 7.5. The plant prefers soils rich in organic matter and requires ample watering to maintain the soil moisture levels. It's essential to avoid waterlogging as this can lead to the plant's root rotting. Additionally, S. gossweileri is adapted to growing in soil with a high sand content, and it's advisable to apply sand when planting in areas with clay soils.
Cultivation Methods
Strychnos gossweileri Exell is a hardy plant that thrives in subtropical to tropical conditions. It is best grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and grows well in both open fields and containers.
The plant can be propagated through stem cuttings, seeds, or grafting. Stem cuttings and grafting are the quickest ways to get new plants. Seeds take longer to germinate and can take up to a year to grow roots.
Watering Needs
Strychnos gossweileri Exell needs a moderate amount of water. It thrives in well-draining soil that is moist, but not waterlogged. The plant should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season and less frequently during the dormant season.
Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plant. It is important to monitor the soil moisture level and adjust the watering schedule accordingly.
Fertilization
Strychnos gossweileri Exell responds well to regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 should be applied every two to three months during the growing season. Fertilizers should be applied to the soil, not the leaves.
It is important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil. The plant should be watered thoroughly after fertilizer application to prevent salt buildup.
Pruning
Strychnos gossweileri Exell can benefit from pruning to control its size and shape. Pruning should be done during the dormant season to avoid damaging the plant.
The plant should be pruned sparingly, as excessive pruning can reduce flowering and fruiting. Only diseased, dead, or damaged branches should be removed. Pruning cuts should be clean and made at a 45-degree angle.
Propagation of Strychnos gossweileri Exell
Strychnos gossweileri Exell, commonly known as the Congo yellowwood, is a tree species that is native to the Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola. It is a small tree that typically reaches a height of 5-7 meters and produces attractive yellow flowers.
Seed Propagation
One of the best ways to propagate Strychnos gossweileri is through seed propagation. The seeds of the plant are contained in a woody capsule that opens when it is fully ripe. It is important to collect the seeds as soon as the capsule opens to prevent them from scattering around the area.
The seeds should be soaked in lukewarm water for 24 hours before planting to soften the hard outer shell. After soaking, the seeds can be planted in a pot or directly in the ground. The pot should be filled with a well-drained and rich soil mix before planting the seeds.
It is important to water the seeds regularly to keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate. Germination usually takes around 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings should be kept in a warm and partly shaded location.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Strychnos gossweileri through cuttings is possible, but it is a bit more challenging than seed propagation. Softwood cuttings taken from the plant in spring or early summer have the highest chance of success.
Before planting the cuttings, remove all the leaves except for the top pair and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix, and keep them in a warm and humid area until they start to root.
Once the roots have formed, the cuttings can be transplanted to a bigger pot or directly in the ground.
Air-layering Propagation
Air-layering is another propagation method that can be used for Strychnos gossweileri. This method involves making a cut in the stem of the plant and wrapping a moist growing medium around it to stimulate root formation.
The stem should be wrapped with a plastic bag or similar material to maintain a constant moisture level. The roots usually form in 4-6 weeks, after which the stem can be cut and transplanted to a new container or the ground.
Overall, Strychnos gossweileri can be propagated through seed, cutting, and air-layering methods. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, and the best method will depend on the grower's preference and resources.
Disease Management
Strychnos gossweileri Exell is known to be affected by various fungal diseases. Some of the common fungal diseases that can affect this plant include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust. Leaf spot is a foliar disease that leads to the development of circular spots on the leaves. Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems, while rust leads to the development of yellow or orange pustules on the leaves and stem.
To manage these diseases, it is advisable to maintain good plant hygiene. This can be achieved by removing and destroying affected plant debris and ensuring that the plant is well-ventilated. In addition, applying preventive fungicides can help to control the spread of these diseases. In cases where the disease has already affected the plant, it is recommended to remove and destroy any affected plant parts.
Pest Management
Several pests can affect Strychnos gossweileri Exell. These include mites, scales, and mealybugs. Mites and scales both feed on the plant's sap, leading to stunted growth, leaf yellowing, and premature leaf drop. Mealybugs, on the other hand, lead to the production of a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold.
To control these pests, it is essential to inspect the plant regularly and take appropriate measures in case of an infestation. These measures include mechanical control methods, such as handpicking and washing affected plant parts with a strong stream of water. It is also advisable to apply insecticides specifically formulated for the control of these pests, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Finally, it is important to note that prevention is the best way to manage plant pests and diseases. This can be achieved by regularly inspecting the plant and maintaining good plant hygiene and health.
