Overview
Strychnos mellodora S.Moore is a small tree or shrub species that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. The plant is also commonly known as the 'Honey Strychnos' and is native to various African countries, including Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Botswana, and South Africa.
Appearance
Honey Strychnos is usually a small to medium-sized tree or shrub that can grow up to 6 meters tall. The tree's trunk is generally crooked and can be up to 30 cm in diameter. The bark is gray-brown and rough with prominent longitudinal fissures. The leaves are glossy, in simple and elliptic shape, about 7-14 cm long with a pointed tip, and have an entire margin. The tree produces small yellowish to greenish flowers in summer, which are followed by a hard and woody pear-shaped fruit that contains many flat, round, and dark brown seeds.
Uses
Strychnos mellodora has various medicinal uses, and several parts of the plant are used in traditional medicine across Africa. The root, bark, and leaves of the tree are commonly used to treat various ailments, including fever, malaria, respiratory problems, and dysentery. The plant contains various alkaloids, including strychnine, which is known for its medicinal benefits, but it can also have negative effects if consumed in high doses. The wood of the tree is hard and pale yellow-brown, making it suitable for making tools and carving. The tree is also an excellent source of nectar and pollen, and the flowers, in particular, are an essential source of food for bees.
In addition to its medicinal and commercial uses, the plant is also grown as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks due to its attractive glossy leaves and bright flowers.
Typical growth conditions of Strychnos mellodora S.Moore
Strychnos mellodora S.Moore, commonly known as the Natal orange, is a small to medium-sized tree that belongs to the Loganiaceae family. This tree species is native to Southern Africa and is commonly found in savannahs, woodlands, and rocky slopes.
Light requirements
The Natal orange tree requires full sun exposure or partial shade to grow and thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but it might affect its flowering and fruit production. In areas with hot temperatures, it is essential to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day, particularly for young plants.
Temperature requirements
Strychnos mellodora S.Moore is a tropical tree species, and it grows best in areas with warm temperatures throughout the year, with an average range of 25 to 30°C. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -1°C, but frost can damage both leaves and branches.
Soil requirements
This plant species can grow in a wide range of soils, but it prefers well-drained soils and does not tolerate water-logged soils. It generally thrives in soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate some salinity, making it suitable for coastal areas, but too much salt can damage the plant's roots and leaves.
Cultivation Methods for Strychnos mellodora S.Moore
Strychnos mellodora S.Moore is a tropical plant that grows well in warm environments. It is best cultivated in areas with moderate rainfall, well-draining soils, and plenty of sunlight. The plant can be grown from seedlings or mature plants and prefers to be planted during the rainy season.
When planting Strychnos mellodora S.Moore, ensure that the soil is rich, well-draining, and has a pH level ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The plant should be spaced at least three meters apart and planted in a hole at least twice the size of its root ball.
Watering Needs for Strychnos mellodora S.Moore
Strychnos mellodora S.Moore needs regular watering during its active growth period. It should be watered generously, but not excessively, to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. The frequency of watering depends on the soil's moisture, temperature, and rainfall patterns. When the top layer of the soil feels dry, it is time to water the plant.
During the dormant period, the plant requires less water, and you can reduce the frequency of watering to avoid overwatering. However, do not let the soil dry out completely, as this can cause stress to the plant.
Fertilization for Strychnos mellodora S.Moore
Strychnos mellodora S.Moore requires regular fertilization to thrive. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 is ideal for this plant. Fertilization should be done during the active growth period, preferably every three to four months.
Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, taking care not to touch the leaves or stem. Water the plant thoroughly after fertilization to help the soil absorb the nutrients.
Pruning Strychnos mellodora S.Moore
Pruning is necessary to help control the plant's height and shape and promote new growth. Strychnos mellodora S.Moore should be pruned during the dormancy period or just after the harvesting season, usually in late autumn or early winter.
When pruning, remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood. Cut back the tips of the branches to encourage denser growth. Use sharp, sterile pruning tools to avoid injuring the plant, and seal large cuts with pruning paint to prevent infection.
Propagation of Strychnos mellodora S.Moore
Strychnos mellodora S.Moore, commonly known as the "Chocolate Vine," is a tropical woody liana native to Africa. The plant is commonly used for medicinal purposes, and its seeds and fruits are edible. Propagation of Strychnos mellodora S.Moore can be achieved through various methods.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Strychnos mellodora S.Moore can be achieved through seed propagation. Collect ripe fruits from the plant, remove the fleshy pulp, and soak the seeds in warm water for at least 24 hours. Sow the seeds in well-drained soil, and maintain a temperature of around 25-30°C. Germination will occur within 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Strychnos mellodora S.Moore can also be achieved through cuttings. Take cuttings from the plant during the growing season, ensuring that each cutting has about 2-3 nodes. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder and plant them in well-draining soil. Cover the cuttings with a plastic bag and place them in a warm, shaded area. Once the cuttings have rooted, remove the plastic bag and move the plant to a sunny location.
Air Layering Propagation
Propagation of Strychnos mellodora S.Moore can also be achieved through air layering. Select a healthy branch and make a downward incision about 10-15cm from the tip of the branch. Dust the area with rooting hormone powder and wrap moist sphagnum moss around the incision. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure both ends with string. Keep the moss moist and roots will develop within 4-6 weeks. Cut off the rooted branch and plant it in well-drained soil.
It's important to note that Strychnos mellodora S.Moore may take several years to reach maturity and produce fruits. Nonetheless, propagation of this plant can be achieved successfully using various methods.
Disease Management for Strychnos mellodora S.Moore
Strychnos mellodora S.Moore is a hardy plant that is resistant to most diseases. However, the plant may occasionally develop some diseases, which can affect its growth and productivity. The following are some common diseases that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease caused by Ascochyta strychnicola. It manifests as circular or oval-shaped spots on the leaves that may be brown or gray in color. The disease can cause defoliation and weaken the plant.
To manage the disease, you may apply copper-based fungicides and practice good sanitation by removing and destroying infected leaves. Ensure that the plant receives adequate sunlight and has good air circulation.
Root Rot
Root rot is a soil-borne disease caused by fungi such as Phytophthora and Rhizoctonia. It causes the roots to rot, leading to stunted growth and wilted leaves. The disease is prevalent in waterlogged soils and can be fatal if not managed.
To manage the disease, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil drains well. You may also apply soil drenches with the fungicide metalaxyl to control the disease.
Pest Management for Strychnos mellodora S.Moore
Strychnos mellodora S.Moore is also a relatively pest-resistant plant. However, here are some common pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Stem Borers
Stem borers are insects that bore into the plant's stem, leading to wilting and possibly death of the plant. Common stem borers include the stem beetle (Myllocerus undecimpustulatus undatus) and the tea mosquito bug (Helopeltis antonii).
To manage the pests, use appropriate insecticides such as imidacloprid and thiamethoxam. Ensure that you apply the insecticides at the base of the plant, where the stem borers reside.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant sap, leading to stunted growth and premature leaf drop. The insects excrete honeydew, which attracts sooty mold.
To manage the pests, wipe the affected parts of the plant with a cloth soaked in alcohol or apply insecticidal soap.
By managing these pests and diseases effectively, Strychnos mellodora S.Moore can thrive and produce optimal yields.
