Overview
Strychnos henriquesiana Baker is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Loganiaceae. This plant has various common names such as "murumpanga," "murumpangueiro," and "laranjeira-do-mato." It is a native plant of the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, where it grows in tropical and subtropical forests.
Appearance
The Strychnos henriquesiana plant has a small to medium-sized tree that usually grows up to 4 - 8m tall. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have an oval shape. The flowers emerge in late spring to early summer. They are small, white, and have a distinct fragrance. The fruit of this plant is a berry that is green when young and turns yellow when mature. The seeds are known for their toxicity and bitterness.
Uses
The plant has various medicinal uses among the indigenous people of Brazil. They use different parts of the plant to treat a variety of illnesses such as fever, allergies, tumors, and stomach disorders. The bark of the tree is also used as a tonic and to promote healing. The seeds and bark contain strychnine, which is a potent toxic alkaloid that is known for its medicinal properties.
Furthermore, the plant is also used by the local community for its fruit, which is often consumed to flavor drinks or eaten as a snack. The hardwood of the tree is sometimes utilized in construction and woodworking. Due to its ornamental appearance, the plant is also grown as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks within its natural range.
Conclusion
Strychnos henriquesiana Baker is a versatile and interesting plant species with various medicinal, nutritional, and ornamental uses. It plays a significant role in the economy and culture of the local community where it grows. However, it is important to note that the seeds and bark of the plant are highly toxic and should be used with caution and under the guidance of a trained professional.
Light Requirements
The Strychnos henriquesiana Baker plant thrives in areas with bright light and indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant as it may cause sunscald and leaf burn. It is recommended to place the plant in a location with dappled shade or partial shade. A bright room or a location near a window that receives bright but indirect sunlight is ideal for the growth of this plant.
Temperature Requirements
The Strychnos henriquesiana Baker plant grows best in regions with warm temperatures. It prefers temperatures between 18°C and 24°C (65°F to 75°F). The minimum growing temperature for this plant is 15°C (59°F), and exposure to temperatures below this will cause damage to the plant. The plant should be kept away from areas with cold drafts and frost, as these can harm or kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Strychnos henriquesiana Baker plant thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. A fertile soil mix that is slightly acidic is ideal for the growth of this plant. The soil should be moist and well-aerated, but not waterlogged, which can cause root rot. Sand can be added to the soil mix to increase the drainage capacity. The plant should be potted in a container with drainage holes to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods for Strychnos Henriquesiana Baker
Nursery-grown seedlings are recommended for planting Strychnos henriquesiana Baker. They are relatively easy to grow in well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers partial shade to full sun exposure. The ideal temperature for cultivation ranges from 20-27°C.
Watering Needs for Strychnos Henriquesiana Baker
Strychnos henriquesiana Baker requires regular watering, especially during dry seasons. Water should be applied moderately to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Young plants require slightly more water compared to mature ones. This plant thrives in areas with moderate rainfall with well-draining soils.
Fertilization of Strychnos Henriquesiana Baker
Application of organic manure is recommended for Strychnos henriquesiana Baker. Compost or well-rotted manure should be applied annually to give plants adequate nutrition. Fertilizers with high nitrogen content should be avoided because they promote vegetative growth at the expense of flowering and fruiting. Alternatively, a balanced fertilizer with NPK ratio of 10:10:10 should be used.
Pruning of Strychnos Henriquesiana Baker
Strychnos henriquesiana Baker does not require much pruning. Only damaged and diseased branches should be pruned. However, to promote branching, pruning should be done at the onset of the rainy season. This will help to create more canopy, which will enhance fruit production. The branches may become weak and break under the weight of fruits; hence, it is necessary to trim excess growth to create a sturdier framework.
Propagation of Strychnos henriquesiana Baker
Strychnos henriquesiana Baker, commonly known as the Saint Helena's poison tree, is an endangered plant species endemic to the island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean. Propagation of this plant species is essential for its conservation and preservation.
Seed propagation
The propagation of S. henriquesiana through seeds is possible, but it is a laborious and time-consuming process. The seeds are irregularly shaped and have a hard, impermeable seed coat, which needs to be scarified before sowing. Scarification can be carried out mechanically, by nicking or filing the seed coat, or chemically, by soaking the seeds in hot water for 24 hours or in acid for 5 minutes.
After scarification, the seeds can be sown directly in a well-drained nursery bed or in containers filled with a mixture of soil and sand. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, and the pot/bed should be kept moist and shaded. Germination occurs after 2-3 months, and the seedlings can be transplanted to individual containers or beds.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation is another method of propagating S. henriquesiana. Semi-hardwood or hardwood cuttings of 10-15 cm long and 0.5-1 cm thick can be collected during the growing season. The basal end of the cutting should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a rooting medium consisting of sand and peat in a ratio of 1:1.
The cuttings should be kept in a humid environment, under indirect light, and at a temperature of 20-25°C. Rooting occurs in 4-6 weeks, and the rooted cuttings can be transplanted into individual containers or beds.
Air-layering propagation
Air-layering propagation can also be employed for propagating S. henriquesiana. This method involves wounding a woody stem, packing the wound with sphagnum moss or other rooting medium and covering it with a plastic sheet. Roots eventually grow from the wounded area and into the rooting medium, and a new plant can be detached from the parent.
The air-layering method is useful when collecting cuttings is impractical or when the plant is too valuable to be pruned.
Disease and Pest Management for Strychnos henriquesiana Baker
Strychnos henriquesiana Baker is a native plant of Africa characterized by its medicinal properties. It is commonly known as "Mpanatiggin" and is a source of numerous phytochemicals used as traditional medicine for several ailments. To ensure the plant's survival and growth, it is essential to manage the diseases and pests that may affect it. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect S. henriquesiana and their management.
Diseases and their Management
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal infection that appears on leaves and stems, causing brown spots bordered with black. Avoid excessive watering of the plant and remove infected plant parts promptly to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also help control anthracnose.
Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that appears as sunken, necrotic spots on twigs and stems. The infected parts should be pruned and disposed of immediately. Sanitize pruning tools with a solution of bleach and water to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pests and their Management
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that infest the plant and suck sap from leaves. They appear as white spots on leaves and cause leaf yellowing and curling. A solution of dish soap and water can help control spider mites. Neem oil can also be used as a natural pesticide.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that damage leaves and flowers, leaving them deformed and discolored. A solution of insecticidal soap can help control thrips. Additionally, removing weeds and debris around the plant will help eliminate their breeding ground.
Regular monitoring of S. henriquesiana for signs of diseases and pests and implementing appropriate management measures will help ensure the plant's health and vigor. Careful management of diseases and pests will help guarantee a good harvest of phytochemicals from this valuable medicinal plant.
