Introduction
Strychnos xerophila Baker is a species of flowering plant that is part of the Strychnos genus. It belongs to the family Loganiaceae. The plant is native to the eastern part of Southern Africa, specifically Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa.Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as the Desert Marula. Other names it is known by include, Mutotobo, Ulumbu, and Umtunguze.Appearance
Strychnos xerophila Baker is a medium-sized, deciduous tree that typically grows up to six meters in height. It has a relatively small, dense, and rounded crown. The plant has a hardy, slow-growing nature, much like other desert trees. The leaves are simple and ovate, with a dark green color, reaching up to 7 cm in length. The tree produces small, yellow-green flowers that later develop into small, spherical fruit that has a shiny, smooth texture.Uses
Strychnos xerophila Baker has a few medicinal uses. The bark and roots are used in some African Traditional Medicines to treat indigestion, to strengthen the heart, and to treat malaria and fever. The fruit of the Desert Marula is edible and can be consumed either fresh or dried. Its seeds are rich in oil, which has been used for soap production, as a lubricant, and as an ingredient in cooking. In summary, Strychnos xerophila Baker, also known as the Desert Marula, is a slow-growing, medium-sized deciduous tree that produces small spherical fruit and yellow-green flowers. It is native to Southern Africa and has medicinal uses, as well as producing edible fruit and oil-rich seeds.Light Requirements
Strychnos xerophila Baker requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and development. As a result, it is commonly found in open woodlands, savannas, and grasslands in its native range.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and is adapted to warm temperatures. The ideal range for growth and flowering is between 20-30? (68-86?). Temperatures below 15? (59?) can cause damage to the plant, and it cannot tolerate frost or cold temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Strychnos xerophila Baker prefers well-draining soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the plant cannot grow in waterlogged soils or areas with poor drainage. It is commonly found growing in rocky or sandy soils along slopes or hillsides.
Cultivation of Strychnos xerophila Baker
Strychnos xerophila Baker is a tropical plant that belongs to the Strychnaceae family. It grows best in warm temperatures ranging from 24 to 30°C. When planting, ensure that you choose well-draining soil that has a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. The plant grows best in full sun, but it can still thrive in partial shade. It's ideal for growing in containers or as a hedge.
Watering needs of Strychnos xerophila Baker
Watering this plant regularly is essential for its proper growth. Ensure that you water it deeply once a week, especially during dry seasons when the soil may dry out much faster. Take care not to overwater it, as it can lead to root rot. Always ensure that the soil is moist but not water-logged.
Fertilization of Strychnos xerophila Baker
Fertilizers are essential in the growth and development of Strychnos xerophila Baker. Apply a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to provide the necessary nutrients required by the plant. You can also add compost to the soil to enrich it with organic nutrients. Fertilize approximately once a month during the growing season for optimal growth.
Pruning Strychnos xerophila Baker
Regular pruning of the plant helps to keep it in shape and stimulate new growth. Prune the side shoots regularly to encourage a bushy habit. You can also remove any diseased or weak shoots to keep the plant healthy. Prune the plant in the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is not too harsh. Use clean, sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Strychnos xerophila Baker
Strychnos xerophila Baker can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings or grafting. However, the most common propagation method for this plant is through seeds.
Seed Propagation
Strychnos xerophila Baker seeds are easy to collect and germinate. The best time to collect the seeds is when the fruits are ripe and begin to split open. The seeds should be extracted immediately and washed carefully to remove any pulp or debris.
The seeds can be sown in a well-draining soil mix, which should be slightly moist but not soaked. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil and provide a humid environment. The seeds should germinate within 2 to 3 weeks and should be thinned out once they have a few true leaves.
Stem Cuttings
Strychnos xerophila Baker can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant and should be about 5-6 inches long. Remove the leaves from the bottom 2/3 of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and keep it moist. Roots should develop within a few weeks, and the new plant should be transplanted to a larger container once it has established.
Grafting
Grafting is a more advanced propagation method for Strychnos xerophila Baker. It involves grafting a piece of the desired cultivar onto a rootstock of a different plant that is better adapted to the growing conditions. This method is typically used by commercial growers or experienced growers and should not be attempted by beginners.
Disease Management
Strychnos xerophila Baker, commonly known as the desert orange or the green monkey orange, is relatively resistant to diseases. However, some common diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes dark, sunken lesions on leaves, bark, and fruits. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant material, and apply fungicides.
- Bacterial canker: Bacterial canker causes stem cankers, leaf spots, and fruit rot. Remove and destroy infected plant material, and apply copper-based fungicides.
- Root rot: Root rot is caused by waterlogging and poorly drained soils. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage, and avoid overwatering. Apply fungicides if necessary.
Pest Management
Strychnos xerophila is generally pest-resistant, but some common pests might attack the plant. These include:
- Scales: Scales are small, sap-sucking insects that attach themselves to the plant's leaves and stems. To manage scales, prune and destroy infected plant material, and apply insecticidal soaps or oils.
- Mites: Mites are small, spider-like pests that cause leaf discoloration and distortion. To manage mites, prune and destroy infected plant material, and apply insecticidal soaps or oils.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the plant's leaves. To manage caterpillars, prune and destroy infected plant material, and apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticides.
