Description of Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss
Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Loganiaceae. This plant is mostly found in East and Central Africa, particularly in Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names of Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss
Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss has various common names depending on the region. It is commonly known as "Mulungu" in Malawi, "Uturumwe" in Tanzania, "Mugombero" in Zambia, and "Munyatare" in Zimbabwe. These names are derived from their uses in traditional medicine.
Uses of Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss
Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss is widely used for traditional medicine among the indigenous people of East and Central Africa. It is believed to have various medicinal properties that can treat a wide range of ailments such as malaria, fever, and stomach issues. The bark and roots of the plant are used to prepare herbal remedies, which are used to boost the immune system, alleviate pain, and promote general well-being.
General Appearance of Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss
Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss is a shrub or small tree that grows up to 4 meters tall. Its bark is grayish-brown, and its young branches are hairy. The plant produces smooth, glossy, and elliptical leaves that are about 6-12 cm long and 3-8 cm wide. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and they bloom from September to January. The fruit is a smooth, greenish-yellow berry that is about 6-8 cm in diameter. Inside the fruit are about 2-4 brownish-black seeds that are highly toxic and can cause death if ingested.
Light Requirements
Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss requires a moderate amount of sunlight for optimal growth. A bright and sunny location is recommended for this plant. However, direct and intense sunlight for extended periods can be harmful. Therefore, partial shade is also suitable, especially during the afternoon peak hours.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers a warm and humid climate. In general, it thrives in temperatures ranging from 18-30°C. Temperatures below 15°C can cause damage to the leaves, affecting plant growth. Therefore, it is vital to provide an adequately warm and well-ventilated environment for the plant.
Soil Requirements
Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss does well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, with a pH level of 5.5 to 7.5. Adding organic compost to the soil before planting helps retain moisture and nutrients required for plant growth. It is also beneficial to mulch the soil to reduce evaporation and maintain moisture levels.
Cultivation of Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss
Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss, commonly referred to as the corky-barked liane, is an evergreen plant that is easy to cultivate. The plant is native to tropical Africa and can be grown in a wide range of climatic conditions, making it suitable for cultivation in many regions of the world. The plant can be propagated from seed or cuttings.
Watering needs
The corky-barked liane requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. However, it is essential to avoid over-watering as it can cause root rot. To determine when to water the plant, check the soil moisture level by inserting a finger into the soil, and if it feels dry, then it requires watering.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant regularly with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth. Use a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season and water the plant after applying the fertilizer to avoid fertilizer burn.
Pruning
Pruning the corky-barked liane is essential to maintain the desired size and shape and to remove any dead or damaged branches. Prune the plant in the early spring before the growing season begins. Use sterilized pruning equipment to prevent the spread of plant diseases.
Propagation of Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss
Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings, and air layering. However, the most common and effective method of propagation for this plant is through seed propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seeds are collected from mature fruits. The fruit should be allowed to ripen and dry on the plant before collecting the seeds. The collected seeds should be cleaned and soaked in warm water for 24 hours to soften their hard outer coat. Seeds can then be sown in a well-draining soil mix in pots or seed trays. The soil should be kept moist and warm, preferably with a temperature around 25°C. Seedlings should emerge within 2-3 weeks.
Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size (roughly 10-15cm), they can be transplanted into individual pots with rich, well-draining soil. Seed propagation is a time-consuming process and requires patience, but it is a reliable and efficient method.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be taken from mature plants. Cuttings should be taken from new growth, and the cut end of the stem should be dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cutting should be inserted into a well-draining soil mix (a mixture of sand and peat moss works well), and should be kept warm and moist until roots have formed.
Air Layering
Air layering is a propagation method that can be used for larger plants. It is a process where a section of the stem is wrapped in moist sphagnum moss, and a plastic covering is placed over the moss to keep it moist. Roots will start to grow from the covered section of the stem, and once there are sufficient roots, the stem can be cut below the rooting area and planted in a pot with well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss
Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss, commonly known as the African forest poison tree, is a species of tree in the Loganiaceae family. This plant species is known to be affected by different diseases and pests, causing damage to the tree's growth and production.
Common Diseases Affecting Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss
Leaf Rust: Leaf rust is a fungal disease that attacks the leaves of the Strychnos tricalysioides tree. It is characterized by small, yellowish-brown pustules on leaves, which gradually turn into brownish-black color. This disease can be controlled by ensuring proper ventilation and exposing the tree to sunlight. Fungicides can also be used.
Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that attacks the bark of trees, often causing dieback and eventual death of the tree. To manage canker, remove all the affected bark completely and burn it. Apply fungicides to prevent the disease from spreading.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of trees, causing yellowing of leaves and eventual death of the tree. This disease is caused by over-watering. To manage it, decrease watering and improve drainage around tree roots. Applying fungicides can also be effective.
Common Pests Affecting Strychnos tricalysioides Hutch. & M.B.Moss
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common pests that suck sap from the tree, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, use insecticides such as neem oil or soapy water. Pruning infested branches can also be effective.
Scale insects: Scale insects are flat, oval, and often brown in color. They can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, use insecticides such as neem oil or soapy water. Pruning infested branches can also be effective.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from the tree, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, use insecticides such as neem oil or soapy water. Pruning infested branches can also be effective.
Overall, it is important to monitor regularly for signs of diseases and pests, taking appropriate measures to control them as soon as they appear. Proper irrigation, nutrition, and pruning practices can also help to prevent infestation and disease.
