Description of Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce
Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the Loganiaceae family. The tree is also known as the 'thick-stemmed monkey orange' in English and 'Mtabula' in Swahili. It is native to Eastern and Central Africa, including countries such as Tanzania, Congo, and Zambia.
Appearance
The tree has a round and spreading crown that grows up to 20m tall when undisturbed. Its bark is grey and smooth. The leaves are simple, glossy, dark green, and oblong-shaped, measuring approximately 8-15cm long and 3.5-5cm wide. The flowers are yellowish-green, small in size, and densely clustered. The tree produces large, round fruits, which are up to 12 cm in diameter, green, and covered with stiff hairs.
Uses
Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce has several uses, especially in traditional medicine. The fruit pulp and seeds contain alkaloids that have medicinal properties such as inducing vomiting, purgation, and as a cure for malaria. The bark and roots also have therapeutic benefits, such as treatment for diarrhea, fever, and stomach pains. The bark is also used to make twine, baskets, and fishing lines. The fruit is edible and has a sweet but sour taste, which is often preferred by monkeys and baboons.
The thick-stemmed monkey orange is essential in the forest ecosystem since it provides food and shelter for various animals, both big and small. As a result, it is regarded as a valuable forest resource, and its conservation is critical to the survival of the animals that depend on it.
In conclusion, Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce is a versatile, medium to a large-sized tree found in tropical Africa. It has medicinal and cultural importance while also playing a significant ecological role in the forest ecosystem.Light Requirements
The Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce plant prefers full sunlight exposure to partial shade. A minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight exposure is required daily for this plant to thrive and grow efficiently. Insufficient sunlight may result in stunted growth and reduced fruit production.
Temperature Requirements
This plant's native habitat is in the tropical regions of Africa, and it thrives in warm temperatures. The temperature range required for optimal growth is between 20°C to 35°C. Temperatures below 10°C may be detrimental to its growth and may lead to wilting or death of the plant. The plant requires a warm, humid environment to thrive.
Soil Requirements
The Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce plant requires well-draining, fertile soil. The soil should be rich in organic matter with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil. Soil that is too alkaline may affect plant growth negatively. It is recommended to use compost and mulch occasionally to enhance soil fertility and improve water retention. Adequate soil moisture is essential for this plant to thrive, and it requires regular watering.
Cultivation Methods
Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce, commonly known as the African tree or poison arrow tree, thrives in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It grows best in areas with partial shade or full sun exposure.
The seeds can be started in pots filled with well-draining potting soil and kept in a warm temperature, preferably between 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. Once the seedlings have grown two sets of leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
Watering Needs
The African tree requires moderate watering to thrive. You should water the plant at least once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during winter. However, ensure that the soil doesn't dry out completely. Overwatering your plant can lead to root rot, so water the plant in moderation.
Fertilization
To ensure healthy growth, the plant requires regular fertilization. Every three months, apply a balanced fertilizer, rich in essential micro and macro-nutrients, to the soil around the plant. Fertilizing the plant will encourage healthy growth, enable increased tolerance to pests and diseases, and ensure abundant flowering.
Pruning
Pruning your African tree is essential to encourage healthy growth and prevent overcrowding. Prune the plant annually to remove any dead, diseased or damaged branches. Regular pruning also ensures that the plant retains its desired shape and size, enabling it to produces more fruit. You can prune your tree during the winter season when it is dormant.
Propagation of Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce
Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce, also known as the "false mopane," is a medicinal plant that belongs to the Loganiaceae family. It is native to parts of Africa, including Tanzania and Mozambique. The plant can be propagated through several methods, which are listed below.
Seed Propagation
Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce can be propagated from seed, although the method requires some patience. The seed must be collected from mature fruits and stored in a cool, dry place until planting. Before planting, the seed should be soaked in water for 24-48 hours to help soften the seed coat, which can help increase germination rates. The seed should then be sown in well-draining soil, preferably in a greenhouse or sheltered location. The seedlings can be transplanted once they are large enough to handle.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings propagation is another method of propagating Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce. The cuttings should be taken from healthy parent plants during the growing season, when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be approximately 10-15 cm long and should be taken from the newer growth. The cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged until the cuttings take root.
Air Layering
Air layering is a propagation method that involves creating a new plant from an existing one while it is still attached to the parent plant. This method is useful for plants that are difficult to propagate by other methods. Air layering involves removing a section of bark and encouraging roots to form at that point. The rooted section can then be separated from the parent plant and potted up as a new plant. Air layering can be time-consuming but can yield good results.
Division
In some cases, Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce can be propagated through division. When the plant reaches maturity, it will produce multiple stems. These stems can be carefully divided and potted up as separate plants. It is important to ensure that each division has enough roots to support itself.
Disease Management
Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce is a hardy plant, but it is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases. Here are some common diseases that affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this disease, remove all infected plant parts and dispose of them in the trash. Avoid overhead watering, as moisture facilitates the growth of the fungus. Fungicides can also be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Bacterial Leaf Spot
Bacterial leaf spot causes water-soaked lesions with yellow halos on the leaves. To prevent this disease, use clean tools and avoid wounding the plant during pruning. Avoid overhead watering and remove infected plant parts. Copper-based fungicides can also be used.
Pest Management
Like any other plant, Strychnos scheffleri Gilg var. expansa E.A.Bruce is vulnerable to pests. The following are some of the common pests that can affect the plant:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are arachnids that suck sap from the leaves, causing wilting and yellowing of the foliage. To control these pests, wash the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge the mites. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, cottony white insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To control these pests, wipe the plant with a cotton swab soaked in alcohol or use insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are tiny, immobile insects that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To control these pests, wash the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil according to the manufacturer's instructions.
By implementing a combination of preventative measures and treatment options, the plant can continue to thrive despite the presence of diseases and pests.
