Origin and Common Names
The plant known as Strychnos mueghe Chiov. is a species of the Strychnos genus and belongs in the Loganiaceae family. It is commonly found in Ethiopia, specifically in the areas of Oromo and Amhara, where it grows in the highland forests. The local names for this plant include "Harere" and "Gursa" among the Oromos and "Gharga" among the Amharas.Appearance
Strychnos mueghe Chiov. is a small tree that can grow up to 10 meters in height. It has a round-shaped crown, and the bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color. The leaves are simple, opposite, and ovate-shaped with a pointed tip. The leaf surface is shiny and dark green with a hairless and waxy texture. The flowers are small and creamy-white, while the fruit is a greenish-yellow berry that turns red when it matures. The seeds are numerous, fleshy, and have a hard coating.Uses
The plant has various uses for the local people of Ethiopia. The bark, leaves, and roots have medicinal properties and are used to treat various ailments such as malaria, fever, and stomach disorders. The seeds of the plant are used to produce oil that is used for cooking, soap making, and lighting. The dried and powdered seeds also have a purgative effect and are used as a laxative. Furthermore, the wood of the tree is used for fuel and construction purposes. Overall, Strychnos mueghe Chiov. is an essential plant in the Ethiopian ecosystem as it provides various benefits to both humans and the environment.Growth Conditions for Strychnos mueghe Chiov.
Light Requirements: Strychnos mueghe Chiov. require full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. However, too much shade can result in poor growth.
Temperature Requirements: The plant thrives under warm temperatures, ideally between 20-30°C. Temperatures below 15°C can lead to slow growth and even death. Additionally, the plant is not tolerant of frost.
Soil Requirements: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.0-7.0. It also requires fertile soil that is rich in nutrients. The roots are sensitive to waterlogging, and thus the soil should be well-draining to prevent the roots from rotting.
Moisture Requirements: Strychnos mueghe Chiov. require moderate to high levels of moisture for optimal growth. The plant cannot tolerate drought or excessively wet soil. Thus, proper watering practices should be adhered to. During dry seasons, watering should be done weekly. However, care should be taken not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot.
Nutrient Requirements: The plant requires ample amounts of nitrogen for optimal growth. Thus, it is essential to provide the plant with a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during the growing season. Additionally, the plant requires other micronutrients such as potassium, phosphorus and magnesium.
Cultivation Methods
Strychnos mueghe Chiov. is a shrub that can grow up to 5 meters tall. It is commonly found in East Africa, particularly in areas with dry and hot climates. The plant grows best in well-draining soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
If propagating through stem cuttings, it is recommended to take cuttings from mature plants and plant them in a well-drained potting mix. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment until new growth appears. Once the cuttings have established roots and new growth, they can be transplanted into the field.
Watering Needs
Strychnos mueghe Chiov. prefers well-draining soils that do not stay waterlogged. It is tolerant to periods of drought, but it still needs regular watering especially during the growing season. It is important to water the plant deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Strychnos mueghe Chiov. can benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every two to three months. The fertilizer should be applied around the base of the plant and watered in thoroughly. Avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth.
Pruning
Pruning Strychnos mueghe Chiov. is important to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. It is recommended to prune the plant during the dry season to avoid inducing new growth that can be susceptible to disease and pests. Prune any dead or diseased branches and thin out the canopy to improve air circulation and light penetration. Avoid heavy pruning that can reduce the plant's fruiting potential.
Propagation of Strychnos mueghe Chiov.
Strychnos mueghe Chiov., also known as the African orange, is a tree species native to East Africa. It produces a golden-orange fruit that is edible and has various medicinal properties. The plant can be propagated through several methods:
Seed propagation
Propagation of the African orange through seeds is the most common method. Harvest ripe fruits and extract the seeds. Clean the seeds under running water and remove the pulp. Seed germination typically occurs within two weeks after planting.
Cuttings propagation
Another method of propagating the African orange is through cuttings. Take 10-15cm cuttings from the parent plant's semi-ripe wood, dip it in rooting hormone powder and insert it into vermiculite or sand. Keep the cuttings in a warm and moist environment and wait for roots to start forming after 4-6 weeks.
Air layering propagation
Air layering propagation is a technique for Strychnos mueghe Chiov. plants with a thicker stem. You will have to remove bark on a 10-15cm section of the main stem and dust some rooting hormone in the exposed area. Wrap peat moss or sphagnum moss around the treated area and cover it with plastic wrap to keep the humidity high. Make a small slit on the plastic wrap and keep it watered. After 6-12 weeks roots will start growing from the exposed area. You can then remove and pot the new plant.
Propagation of Strychnos mueghe Chiov. through seed, cutting, and air layering methods are viable and straightforward. With regular care, the propagation can be successful, and soon, the plant will grow into an attractive tree bearing its famous golden-orange fruits.
Disease Management
There are various diseases that can affect Strychnos mueghe Chiov., including fungal and bacterial diseases. Fungal infections can lead to leaf spot and stem rot symptoms, which can significantly reduce plant growth and quality. Bacterial infections, on the other hand, can cause leaf wilting and root rot leading to plant death.
One way to manage fungal and bacterial diseases is to maintain good sanitation practices by removing and destroying any infected plant debris and avoiding overhead watering. Additionally, applying fungicides and bactericides can help to prevent and manage these diseases.
Pest Management
Strychnos mueghe Chiov. is prone to various insect pests, including mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. These pests can feed on plant sap, leading to reduced plant growth and poor quality produce.
To manage these insect pests, it is vital to practice good sanitation by removing any infested plant parts, avoiding overcrowding, and providing adequate aeration to the plant. Additionally, insecticides specifically formulated for these pests can be used to control infestations effectively.
Regular monitoring of plants for any signs of diseases and pests is essential to detect any problems early and take action promptly to prevent their spread. It is also vital to follow all label instructions and safety precautions when using any chemicals to control diseases and pests.
