Overview
Strychnos zizyphoides, commonly referred to as the large-leaved green poison bean or the Amakhala bean, is a plant species belonging to the family Loganiaceae. The plant is indigenous to southern Africa, and can be found across a wide range of wooded areas and savannahs, especially near the Cape region of South Africa.
Appearance
The Strychnos zizyphoides plant is a fairly small, evergreen tree that usually grows up to 5m tall. It has a twisted trunk with a thick bark and a dense crown. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped, measuring up to 11cm long and 6cm wide. The plant produces small, white or yellowish-brown flowers with five petals, followed by greenish-yellow, egg-shaped fruits that grow up to 7cm in length. The fruits contain several seeds that are coated with a bitter substance and are toxic to humans and livestock.
Uses
Even though the seeds of Strychnos zizyphoides are poisonous, the plant has traditionally been used for various medicinal purposes. In some rural areas of southern Africa, the bark, roots, and leaves of the plant are boiled to make a tea that is believed to have pain-relieving properties, as well as a treatment for malaria, respiratory infections, and snakebites.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the Strychnos zizyphoides plant is also valued for its wood, which is hard and durable, and is used for construction and making furniture and utensils. The leaves of the plant are used as a natural insect repellent and can be burned to produce a smoke that keeps mosquitoes and other pests away.
Overall, the Strychnos zizyphoides plant is an important species in the southern African ecosystem and has numerous applications in local medicine, as well as in the fields of wood and pest management.
Light
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker requires full sunlight exposure to thrive. It needs at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day. Without enough sunlight, the plant may grow weak and may not produce flowers or fruits during its growing season.
Temperature
The plant grows best in tropical and subtropical climates with a temperature range of 20-30°C (68-86°F). It cannot tolerate freezing temperatures, which could damage or kill the plant. It is essential to provide a warm and humid environment for this plant to achieve optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It cannot tolerate waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot. Strychnos zizyphoides Baker performs well in soils with good organic matter content. It can grow in sandy, loamy, and clay soils, provided that water can drain freely. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker thrives in well-drained soils with a pH of 6.5-7.5. The plant should receive partial shade when young, transitioning to full sunlight as it matures. Seed propagation is the most commonly used method of cultivation. The seed should be sown in a seedbed or large container, with adequate space and light. When the plants have grown to the desired height, they should be transplanted into their permanent planting location.
Watering Needs
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker requires regular watering, particularly during the dry season. The frequency and quantity of water depend on soil moisture and humidity conditions. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant because waterlogged soils can promote the development of root rot. The use of mulching materials can help to conserve soil moisture and suppress weed growth around the plant's base.
Fertilization
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker requires regular fertilization to boost growth and productivity. Before planting, it is essential to incorporate organic matter such as compost or manure into the soil. Apply a balanced fertilizer once every three months during the growing season. The fertilizer should contain equal portions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Avoid the application of excessive fertilizer because it can cause leaf burn and other complications.
Pruning
Regular pruning of Strychnos zizyphoides Baker can help promote plant health, increase fruit yield, and improve the overall appearance of the plant. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring just before new growth appears. The pruning should remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. The pruning should also remove any suckers sprouting from the base of the plant. Thinning of the center of the plant can allow more sunlight to reach the fruit clusters and increase air circulation to reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Propagation of Strychnos zizyphoides Baker
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker, commonly known as the monkey orange, is propagated through seeds or root cuttings. The plant is a climber and grows best in tropical regions. It is ideal for propagation in the rainy season when the soil is moist and suitable for seed germination.
Propagation by seeds
The monkey orange plant produces a large number of seeds, which can be collected from ripe fruits. The seeds are cleaned and soaked in water for 24 hours. After soaking, the seeds can be planted in seed trays or directly into the soil. It is important to ensure that the seeds are not planted too deep as they require light for germination. The soil should be kept moist, and the seedlings should be transplanted once they have grown to a suitable size.
Propagation by root cuttings
Propagation by root cuttings is another method of propagating the monkey orange plant. Root cuttings are taken from the plant during the dormant season, and the cutting should be at least 10 cm in length. The cuttings are planted in a soil mixture of sand, compost, and perlite. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment. The cuttings should develop roots within a few weeks and can be transplanted once they have established a well-developed root system.
Disease Management
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker is known to be susceptible to various diseases. One of the most common diseases affecting this plant is powdery mildew, which appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove any infected leaves and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect S. zizyphoides Baker is anthracnose, which causes large, sunken lesions on the leaves. To manage anthracnose, prune any affected branches and dispose of them carefully. Fungicides can also be used to manage the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
S. zizyphoides Baker is also vulnerable to pests such as mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Mealybugs and scale insects can be identified by their white, cottony appearance. Spider mites, on the other hand, can be identified by fine webbing on the leaves.
To manage these pests, you can use insecticidal soaps and oils, which can be sprayed directly on the affected part of the plant. Additionally, you can introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings to feed on the pests and control their population.
It is essential to monitor the plant regularly to detect any signs of disease or pest infestation. Early detection and prompt action are crucial in managing any pest or disease outbreaks that might occur.
