Origin and Common Names
Strychnos hankei H.J.P.Winkl. ex Guinea is a plant species that belongs to the family of Loganiaceae. This plant species is also known by its common name, Ntim. It is native to the tropical regions of West and Central Africa.
General Appearance
Strychnos hankei H.J.P.Winkl. ex Guinea is an evergreen shrub or small tree growing up to 10 meters tall. It has dark green, glossy leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. The flowers of this plant are small, white, and tubular. They grow in clusters and are followed by yellow-green fruit that is about the size of a golf ball. The fruit contains seeds that are known for their notable toxicity.
Uses
Despite its toxicity, Strychnos hankei H.J.P.Winkl. ex Guinea has several uses in traditional medicine. The root, bark, and leaves of this plant have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. The bark of the plant is useful in treating fever, diarrhea, and dysentery. The leaves are used as an astringent and as a remedy for toothache and colds. The stem extracts of the plant also have potential for use in the treatment of various cancers. In addition, extracts from the plant have been used to keep pests such as mosquitoes and fleas away from farm animals.
Light Requirements
Strychnos hankei H.J.P.Winkl. ex Guinea thrives well in full sunlight, making it ideal for outdoor cultivation. However, it can also grow well under partial shade, but the plant may not produce as many flowers and fruits as those grown in full sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in areas with a temperature range of 25-30°C during the day and 20-25°C at night. Young plants are sensitive to frost, and it is advisable to protect them from low temperatures during the first two years of growth. High temperatures above 35°C can cause stress on the plant, leading to reduced growth and fruiting.
Soil Requirements
Strychnos hankei H.J.P.Winkl. ex Guinea grows best in well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The plants prefer sandy loam soils rich in organic matter. It is essential to maintain good soil moisture to ensure a steady and robust growth rate. However, excessive soil moisture can lead to root rot, which damages the plant. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve soil structure and fertility, providing the ideal conditions for the plant's healthy growth.
Cultivation
Strychnos hankei is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and bright light. It can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 10 and 11 or indoors as a houseplant.
It prefers a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged.
When planting Strychnos hankei, make sure to provide adequate space for the roots to grow. The plant has a deep root system, and it is important to use a container or soil bed that can accommodate this.
Watering Needs
Strychnos hankei requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. To prevent overwatering, make sure the soil has good drainage.
During periods of growth, it may be necessary to water the plant once or twice a week. In the winter months, when growth is slower, reduce watering to once every two weeks.
Fertilization
Feed Strychnos hankei with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. A 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 fertilizer works well.
During the winter months, suspend fertilizer application to allow the plant to go dormant.
Pruning
Prune Strychnos hankei to control its size and shape and to remove any damaged or diseased branches. Pruning will also promote a fuller plant and can help increase blooming.
Remove any dead, yellow, or brown leaves as these can attract pests and disease.
When pruning, use clean and sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant. Prune in the early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation Methods for Strychnos hankei H.J.P.Winkl. ex Guinea
Strychnos hankei H.J.P.Winkl. ex Guinea can be propagated through sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
The plant's seeds are collected from mature fruits and dried in the sun. Before sowing, the seeds are soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat, which speeds up germination. Sowing can be done in seedbeds or pots filled with well-drained soil. The seeds are covered with a fine layer of soil, and watering is done gently to avoid washing away the seeds. Germination can take 2-3 months, and after germination, the young seedlings are transplanted when they have 2-3 true leaves.
Asexual Propagation
The plant can also be propagated asexually through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, vigorous plants. The best time to take cuttings is during the rainy season when plants are actively growing. The cuttings should be 15-20 cm long and have 2-3 nodes. The leaves on the lower nodes should be removed, leaving only a few leaves on the top. Cuttings are then planted in well-drained soil, and rooting hormone can be used to speed up rooting. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment to encourage root growth. After roots have developed, the new plants can be transplanted into pots or their final planting position.
Disease and Pest Management for Strychnos hankei H.J.P.Winkl. ex Guinea
Strychnos hankei H.J.P.Winkl. ex Guinea, like any other plant, is susceptible to various pests and diseases. Proper management of pests and diseases is necessary to ensure the healthy growth of the plant and increase yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Strychnos hankei H.J.P.Winkl. ex Guinea and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes spotting on leaves, stems, and fruits of the plant. It can cause defoliation and yield loss. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant parts, avoid overhead irrigation, and use fungicides that contain copper or mancozeb.
Mildew: Mildew is a fungal disease that causes white patches on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause poor growth and yield loss. To manage mildew, remove and destroy infected plant parts, avoid overhead irrigation, and use fungicides that contain sulfur or potassium bicarbonate.
Root Rot: Root Rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots of the plant to rot, leading to poor growth and yield loss. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering, improve soil drainage, and use fungicides that contain azoxystrobin or mefenoxam.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause stunted growth and yield loss. To manage aphids, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They secrete a white, powdery substance that can attract other pests. To manage mealybugs, remove and destroy infected plant parts, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap, and introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny mites that feed on the undersides of leaves. They can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves and lead to defoliation. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to increase humidity, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators like ladybugs or predatory mites.
Proper management of pests and diseases is crucial to ensure the healthy growth of Strychnos hankei H.J.P.Winkl. ex Guinea. Implementing preventive measures is always better than waiting for the disease or pest to attack. Regularly inspect the plant for any sign of disease or pest infestation and take appropriate action swiftly is the key to success.
