Overview of Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore
Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore is a climbing plant species that belongs to the Strychnos genus, which falls under the Loganiaceae family. The species is native to southern regions of Africa, including Angola, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. The plant is known by many common names, including the Zambezi Corkwood, Tamboti, and Mbilinco.
Appearance of Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore
Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore is a woody vine or shrub that can grow up to 30 meters in length. The plant has a brown-grey bark, which peels off in long flakes. Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore also has large, shiny leaves that grow in opposite pairs. When the leaves are crushed, they release a strong, bitter odor.
Uses of Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore
The bark and roots of Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore are commonly used in traditional medicine for their various healing properties. The bark is used to treat fever, snakebites, and skin diseases, while the roots are used to treat infertility and sexually transmitted infections. However, it is important to note that the plant is also highly toxic, due to the presence of strychnine in some parts. Therefore, it should only be used under the guidance of trained professionals.
Light Requirements
Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore requires full sunlight for optimal growth and development. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in an area where it can receive direct sunlight for at least 6 hours daily.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can be grown in tropical and subtropical regions where the temperature range is between 25°C and 35°C. It can tolerate high temperatures but does not thrive in areas with temperatures below 15°C. In colder regions, it is advisable to grow it in a greenhouse or indoors.
Soil Requirements
Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate a range of soils, including sandy and loamy soils, but grows best in well-drained loamy soils. The plant is sensitive to waterlogging, so it is essential to ensure proper drainage.
Cultivation Methods for Strychnos memecyloides
Strychnos memecyloides is a hardy plant that can survive in various growing conditions. It prefers well-draining soils and full sun or partial shade. Prepare soil that is rich in organic matter, loose and has neutral pH before planting. The plant grows from seeds that should be sown during the growing season after soaking the seeds in water for 24 hours.
Ensure the soil is moist and warm, and the seeds should germinate in about 2 weeks. Transfer the seedlings into small pots and maintain them in a warm but shaded area. After the seedlings have four or more leaves, transplant them into a bigger pot or outdoors in a well-draining bed.
Watering Needs for Strychnos memecyloides
Strychnos memecyloides has moderate water needs. Water the plant deeply once a week during warmer months, making sure the soil is moist down to about 6 inches. Reduce the watering frequency to once every ten days during cold seasons. Avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot or waterlogging, which can be detrimental to the plant.
Fertilization for Strychnos memecyloides
Strychnos memecyloides responds well to organic fertilizers. Apply organic fertilizer to the soil monthly during the growing season to enhance growth and development. Use a general-purpose fertilizer such as 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 in the ratio of 2 tablespoons per 1-gallon water. Apply fertilizer on moist soil and then water to help with absorption.
Pruning for Strychnos memecyloides
Strychnos memecyloides grows naturally with a bushy habit. However, pruning can help to maintain the desired shape and height and promote new growth. Prune the plant in the fall or early spring before the growing season. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Remove dead or diseased branches, or those that obstruct the plant's growth. Cut back about one-third of the plant to stimulate new growth and an increase in blooming.
Propagation of Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore
Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore can be propagated through different methods:
Root Cuttings
One way to propagate Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore is through root cuttings. For this method, take cuttings of the roots and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a warm, shady spot. Eventually, new growth will appear from the roots.
Seed Propagation
Another way to propagate Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore is through seed propagation. Collect seeds from mature fruits and sow them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and warm. Germination may take a few weeks to a few months.
Air Layering
Air layering is also a possible way to propagate Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore. Choose a healthy and mature branch, make a small incision in the stem, dust the area with rooting hormone, and wrap it with damp sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and tie it with twine. Keep the moss damp and wait for new roots to form. Once the roots have developed, cut the branch below the new roots and plant it in well-draining soil.
Whichever propagation method is chosen for Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore, patience and proper care are necessary while waiting for new growth and development.
Disease Management for Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore
Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore is susceptible to various plant pathogens that can cause severe diseases which affect the growth and quality of the plant. Some of the common diseases that can affect this plant include:
- Anthracnose disease caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides
- Root rot caused by Phytophthora spp.
- Leaf spot caused by Cercospora spp.
- Powdery mildew caused by Erysiphe cichoracearum
To manage these diseases, farmers should consider the following:
- Ensure proper sanitation measures are taken to reduce the spread of the diseases.
- Use disease-free seedlings or planting materials.
- Avoid planting in areas with a history of these diseases.
- Prune and remove infected plant parts to prevent the spread of diseases.
- Use fungicides to manage the diseases where necessary and as recommended by the manufacturer.
Pest Management for Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore
Strychnos memecyloides S.Moore var. effusior S.Moore can also be affected by a variety of pests which harm the plant and reduce its yield and quality. Some of the common pests include:
- Root-knot nematodes
- Aphids
- Caterpillars
- Spider mites
To manage these pests, farmers should consider the following:
- Use crop rotation to reduce pest populations in soils.
- Use clean planting materials or seedlings to reduce initial pest populations.
- Remove and destroy any infected or infested plant parts to reduce pest populations.
- Use insecticides or pesticides when necessary and as recommended to manage pests.
- Use biological control methods such as predatory insects to manage pests without the use of chemicals.
