Origin:
Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl., commonly known as the "poison arrow tree," is a species of tree in the family Loganiaceae. This plant is native to East Africa, particularly in dry bushlands of Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Kenya.
Common Names:
The plant is also referred to as the "poison arrow tree" or simply "strychnos." It is called "Omutomwa" in the Maasai language, "M’unyase" in the Kikamba language, and "Munyembe" in the Kiswahili language.
Uses:
S. volkensii is known for its high levels of strychnine, a deadly poison. The plant has been traditionally used for hunting by indigenous communities in East Africa. Hunters would prepare their arrowheads by dipping them in the plant's bark extracts to immobilize their target. In addition to its toxic properties, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, malaria, and stomach aches.
General Appearance:
The S. volkensii tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and has a thick, smooth bark that is greyish-brown in color. The leaves of the plant are dark green, glossy, and have an oval shape with pointed tips. The tree produces small white or yellowish flowers that bloom in clusters. The fruits of the plant are round and about the size of a cherry, turning bright orange when they are ripe. Inside the fruit are hard, black seeds which contain the plant's toxic strychnine alkaloids.
Light Requirements
Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl. requires a considerable amount of sunlight exposure to flourish. As a result, it is best planted in areas where it can access direct sunlight for most of the day. However, it should also be possible to grow it under partial shade if there is not enough direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl. is between 20°C and 30°C. It is not suitable for growth in areas with very low temperatures or frost. The plant can withstand occasional drought but is susceptible to damage if exposed to prolonged dry periods.
Soil Requirements
Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl. prefers well-drained soils with moderate fertility. It is not suitable for growth in highly saturated or waterlogged soils as this may cause root rot and other soil-borne diseases. A soil pH of around 6 to 7 is ideal for the plant to thrive. However, the plant can tolerate slight variations in pH levels.
Cultivation Methods for Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl.
Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl. is a tropical tree that requires specific growing conditions for proper cultivation. The best way to grow Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl. is through seed propagation. To begin, the seeds must be collected and scarified to encourage germination. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture with good organic matter content.
The seedlings require bright, indirect sunlight and moderate levels of humidity. It is important to maintain a stable temperature of around 25°C for optimal growth. Air circulation must also be adequate in the growing area to avoid fungal infections.
Watering Needs for Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl.
Proper watering is crucial for the successful cultivation of Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl. Over-watering causes root rot and lack of growth. Watering must be done regularly but sparingly, ensuring that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Young plants require more frequent watering, but older, more established plants can tolerate more extended periods between watering.
Fertilization of Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl.
Regular fertilization is essential to promote healthy growth and fruit development in Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl. A balanced fertilizer with a higher percentage of nitrogen during the growing season will support plant health and increase yields. Small quantities of fertilizers must be applied every two to three months for young plants and every three to four months for mature plants.
Pruning of Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl.
Proper pruning is necessary to stimulate growth, increase fruit production, and improve the overall aesthetic of Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl. Pruning should be done in the dry season, primarily if the plant is not producing fruits. Diseased, damaged, or dead branches should be removed, and thinner stems must be cut back to promote vigorous growth and increased branching. For best results, professional pruning should be carried out every two to three years.
Propagation of Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl.
Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl. can be propagated through seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds:
The seeds of Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl. are collected from the fruits that fall off the tree. It is suggested to collect ripe fruits as they provide viable seeds. The collected seeds are cleaned, dried and treated with hot water or acid to break the dormancy. The treated seeds are sown in a well-draining soil mix and watered regularly. The germination of seeds occurs after 3 to 4 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown to a suitable size, they can be transplanted to their desired site.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings:
Propagation through stem cuttings is another successful method for Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl. The stem cuttings are taken from the mother plant and treated with rooting hormone. The treated cuttings are placed in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm, humid environment to encourage rooting. Once the plant has rooted, it can be potted and transplanted to its permanent site.
Disease and Pest Management for Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl.
Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl. is a tree species found in the African savannas. It is commonly referred to as the "poison arrow tree" due to the toxic alkaloids present in its bark. To maintain the health of this tree and protect it from pests and diseases, it is important to implement proper disease and pest management techniques. Below are some common diseases and pests that may affect Strychnos volkensii and ways to manage them.
Leaf spot disease
Leaf spot disease is caused by a fungal infection, which leads to dark spots on the tree's leaves. Over time, these spots can spread and cause defoliation or twig dieback. To manage this disease, it is essential to practice good sanitation, including removing diseased leaves from the ground and pruning any infected twigs or branches. Additionally, it is essential to avoid overhead watering and to apply fungicides as needed.
Scales
Scales are small, disc-shaped insects that can attach themselves to the bark of the tree. They are usually brown or black and can be difficult to see with the naked eye. Scales feed on the sap of the tree and can weaken it over time. To manage scales, it is vital to prune any infected twigs or branches and use horticultural oils or soaps to suffocate the insects. Additionally, maintaining proper irrigation and fertilization can help prevent future infestations.
Root rot
Root rot is caused by a fungal infection that attacks the tree's roots, leading to reduced growth and vigour. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid overwatering and to ensure proper drainage. Improving soil aeration and adding organic matter can also help prevent fungal growth. Fungicides can be used as needed.
Caterpillars
Several species of caterpillars can feed on the leaves of Strychnos volkensii. These pests can cause significant damage by defoliating the tree. To manage caterpillars, it is essential to apply insecticides specifically designed for caterpillar control. Additionally, pruning any infected twigs or branches can help reduce the population of these pests.
Conclusion
Proper disease and pest management are critical in maintaining the health of Strychnos volkensii Gilg ex Engl. By utilizing these management techniques, the tree can remain healthy and continue to thrive in its natural environment.
