Overview of Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse
Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse, commonly known as “Kombé” or “Kombe”, is a tall, evergreen tree that belongs to the flowering plant family Loganiaceae. It is native to tropical Africa, specifically found in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Angola, Cameroon, and Gabon.
Appearance
The tree typically grows up to 20 meters in height and has a straight, cylindrical trunk that can reach a diameter of up to one meter. The bark of the tree is smooth and grey in color with vertical corky lines. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have an oval shape with pointed tips and a smooth margin. The fruit of the tree is a green-yellow berry-like capsule that contains several seeds.
Traditional Uses
The bark, roots, and seeds of Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse have been used by various indigenous communities for several medicinal purposes. The bark of the tree has been traditionally used to treat fever, malaria, and bronchitis. The sap obtained from the bark is used to treat ulcers and to promote wound healing. The root of the tree is used as a remedy for stomach ache, diarrhea, and dysentery. The seeds of Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse have narcotic properties and have been used as a poison for hunting and fishing.
In addition, the timber of the tree is used for construction, furniture, and charcoal production. The tree also provides fodder for livestock, and the fruit is edible and consumed by some African indigenous communities.
Conclusion
Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse is a valuable African tree species with many traditional and commercial uses. Although the tree is used extensively for medicinal and other purposes, its bark and seeds can be toxic, and proper care must be taken when using it. Conservation efforts are essential to sustainably manage this valuable species and maintain its importance to African communities.
Light Requirements
Strychnos procera prefers full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate some shade, but it may affect its overall growth and flowering. Therefore, it is best to plant the species in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Tolerance
The plant is native to tropical regions of Africa, so it thrives in warm temperatures. The optimal temperature range for Strychnos procera growth is between 20°C and 30°C. The minimum temperature that the plant can tolerate is around 18°C, while the maximum is around 35°C. Temperatures below 18°C or above 35°C may negatively impact the plant's growth and health.
Soil Requirements
Strychnos procera grows well in well-drained and fertile soils. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant does not grow well in soils with high salinity, compacted soils, or waterlogged soils as they may limit root growth and overall plant health. It is recommended to incorporate organic matter into the soil prior to planting to improve soil structure and fertility.
Cultivation
Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse is a relatively easy plant to cultivate, and is tolerant of a wide range of soils and climatic conditions.
It is best planted in a location with plenty of sunlight, and the soil should be well-draining to prevent water-logging. The plant can be grown from seed or cuttings, with both methods being successful.
The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It is important to note, however, that the plant does prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil pH levels.
Watering Needs
The Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse plant requires consistent moisture in the soil. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during the warmer months of the year and when the plant is young and establishing its root system.
It is important not to over-water the plant, as this can lead to root rot. Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse is somewhat drought-tolerant once established, and so it is not necessary to water as frequently in the cooler months or during periods of rain.
Fertilization
The plant does not require excessive amounts of fertilizer, but it does benefit from regular applications of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Fertilizer should be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Organic fertilizers such as compost and rotted manure can also be used to provide nutrients to the plant. However, it is important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth and reduce the overall health of the plant.
Pruning
Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse does not require extensive pruning, but it can benefit from selective pruning to remove dead or damaged branches and to control the overall shape and size of the plant.
Pruning should be done in the late winter or early spring before the plant begins actively growing. It is important to use clean, sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant.
When pruning, it is recommended to make cuts just above a leaf node to encourage healthy new growth. The plant can also be trained to grow in a specific shape or direction through selective pruning.
Propagation of Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse
Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse can be propagated both by seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse have a hard, thick seed coat, which may delay germination. To increase the chances of germination, the seeds can be soaked in warm water for 24 hours before planting.
The seeds should be planted 1-2 cm deep in a well-draining soil mix that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Keep the seeds in a warm, bright location and germination should occur within 2-4 weeks.
Once the seedlings have two true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by Cuttings
Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse can also be propagated by stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring or early summer.
Take 10-15 cm long cuttings from the stem tips of a healthy plant. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Insert the cutting into a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Keep the cuttings in a warm, bright location and maintain a high level of humidity by covering the container with a plastic bag or placing the container in a propagator. The cuttings should root within 4-6 weeks.
Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Strychnos Procera Gilg & Busse
Strychnos procera Gilg & Busse, commonly known as the "komb?" or "kombo" tree, is a medicinal plant native to East and Central Africa. As with any plant, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and yield.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Strychnos procera is leaf spot, caused by the fungus Cercospora strychni. This disease manifests as small, dark brown spots on the leaves that may coalesce to form larger patches. To manage this disease, affected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and a fungicide may be applied to prevent the spread of the fungus.
Another common disease is powdery mildew, caused by the fungus Oidium strychni. This disease appears as a powdery white coating on leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, affected parts should be removed and destroyed, and a fungicide may be applied to prevent the spread of the fungus.
Strychnos procera is also susceptible to root rot, which is caused by soil-dwelling fungi such as Fusarium and Phytophthora. Symptoms include yellowing leaves and stunted growth. To manage this disease, infected plants should be removed and destroyed, and the soil should be treated with a fungicide.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Strychnos procera are aphids and mealybugs. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. To manage these pests, insecticidal soap or neem oil may be applied to the affected areas.
Another pest that may affect Strychnos procera is the spider mite. These insects are very small and may be difficult to detect until significant damage has been done. Infested leaves may have a stippled appearance and may eventually turn yellow. To manage spider mites, a miticide may be applied to the affected areas.
It is important to regularly monitor Strychnos procera for any signs of disease or pest infestation to prevent the spread to other plants nearby. Preventative measures such as providing adequate air circulation, removing infected plant parts, and maintaining proper soil moisture can also help prevent disease and pest problems.
