Introduction
Symphonia gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre is a species of plant in the Clusiaceae family, which is also known as Gutta-percha or Gamboge family. It is commonly found in tropical Africa, particularly in the Congo Basin, and countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, and Angola.
Common names
Symphonia gabonensis is known by various common names, including African copal, Benin copal, copalier du Gabon, Gabon copal, Gabon gutta-percha, Gaboon copal and Angola copal.
Uses
The resin extracted from the bark of Symphonia gabonensis has both medicinal and commercial uses. The resin is used traditionally in African medicine to treat various ailments such as stomach issues, respiratory tract infections, and rheumatism. Additionally, the resin is used in the manufacture of varnish, incense, perfume, and as a flavoring for beer.
The wood of Symphonia gabonensis is used in construction, furniture making, and carving due to its durable and resilient properties. It is also used for making charcoal and as fuelwood in some regions.
Appearance
Symphonia gabonensis is a medium-sized tree growing up to 30 meters tall, with a straight trunk and a rounded crown. The leaves are opposite, shiny, and elliptical in shape, and can measure up to 20 cm in length. The tree produces small yellow-green flowers which later develop into fruit that measures up to 4 cm long and 3 cm wide.
The bark of Symphonia gabonensis is grayish-brown and deeply furrowed, and it possesses small glandular cavities that contain a resinous substance. The resin is amber-colored and resembles the resin of other trees from the Clusiaceae family.
Overall, Symphonia gabonensis is an important tree species in Africa, both culturally and economically, due to its diverse uses and widespread distribution.Light Requirements
The Symphonia gabonensis plant requires partial to full sun exposure to thrive. A minimum of six hours of sunlight exposure is ideal for healthy growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the Symphonia gabonensis plant falls between 21°C (70°F) and 32°C (90°F). It can tolerate occasional fluctuations in temperature but does not do well in extreme heat or cold.
Soil Requirements
For optimal growth, Symphonia gabonensis plants prefer well-drained soil with high organic matter content. A slightly acidic to neutral pH level between 5.5 and 7.5 is ideal. This plant can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it does not do well in waterlogged soils as it can cause root rot. It is recommended to add organic matter such as compost to the soil to improve its fertility and water retention capacity.
Cultivation Method for Symphonia Gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre
The Symphonia Gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre plant grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. It is best grown in areas with ample sunlight and warm temperatures. The plant prefers deep, well-drained soil that retains moisture, but does not become waterlogged. It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.
To plant Symphonia Gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre, dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball. Fill the hole with soil and pack it firmly around the plant. Water the plant immediately after planting, and continue to keep the soil moist.
Watering Needs of Symphonia Gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre
The Symphonia Gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre plant needs to be watered regularly. It prefers to be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering will depend on the temperature, humidity, and soil type. It is important to check the soil moisture level before watering.
During the dry season, it may be necessary to water the plant daily. During the rainy season, reduce watering frequency to avoid waterlogging the soil. Be sure to water the plant at the base to avoid wetting the leaves.
Fertilization of Symphonia Gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre
Symphonia Gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre plant requires regular fertilization to thrive. Apply a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season.
Avoid overfeeding the plant with fertilizer, as this can cause damage to the roots. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer label, and apply the fertilizer after watering the plant.
Pruning of Symphonia Gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre
Pruning the Symphonia Gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre plant is not necessary, but it can help to promote healthy growth. Prune the plant in the early spring before the new growth emerges. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
When pruning, use clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. After pruning, water the plant and apply a balanced fertilizer to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Symphonia gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre
Symphonia gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre is a tropical tree species that is part of the Clusiaceae family. It is native to the African continent and is known for its valuable timber. The tree can grow up to 40 meters tall and has a straight, cylindrical trunk. To propagate this species, there are several methods that can be used, including:
Seed Propagation
One of the common methods of propagation for Symphonia gabonensis is seed propagation. Seeds may be collected from the trees when the fruits have matured and fall to the ground or can be harvested from the canopy. The seeds are cleaned and sown in a seedbed with loamy soil. The seedbed should be kept moist and placed in partial shade. After about three weeks, the seedlings can be transplanted into individual polythene bags or pots.
Cuttings Propagation
Another propagation method is through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood stems during the rainy season. The leaves should be removed, leaving only two to three nodes. The cuttings can be treated with a rooting hormone to improve rooting. The cuttings are then placed in a rooting medium that contains sand and peat moss in equal proportions. They should be placed in partial shade and kept moist until they develop roots.
Air-Layering Propagation
Air-layering is another option for propagation of Symphonia gabonensis. The bark is removed from a small area of the stem, and then a rooting hormone is applied to the exposed area. A ball of sphagnum moss is then wrapped around the treated area and covered with plastic to maintain a moist environment. Roots will form at the exposed area, and the new plant can be cut away from the parent plant once roots are established and the new plant is actively growing.
Propagation of Symphonia gabonensis can be a challenging process but is worthwhile for those looking to grow this species. With proper care and attention, propagated plants can grow to become excellent timber trees.
Disease and Pest Management for Symphonia gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre
Symphonia gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre, commonly known as african copalwood, is a tree species native to tropical Africa. Like any other plant, african copalwood is vulnerable to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Symphonia gabonensis and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, twigs, and branches of Symphonia gabonensis. The disease appears as small, circular spots on the leaves that later turn into larger brown spots. To manage the disease, prune and destroy infected leaves and twigs, and ensure proper sanitation measures such as clearing fallen leaves and debris around the tree.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of Symphonia gabonensis, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. The disease occurs due to poorly-drained soils and overwatering. To manage the disease, ensure proper drainage in the planting area and reduce the amount of water applied.
Pests
Scale Insects: Scale insects are common pests that affect Symphonia gabonensis. They attach themselves to the leaves and twigs, sucking sap from the tree and causing yellowing of the leaves. To manage the pests, use a horticultural oil such as neem oil to suffocate and kill them, or wash off the insects using a strong stream of water.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are common pests that can defoliate Symphonia gabonensis. They eat the leaves of the trees, leading to reduced growth rates and productivity. To manage the pests, manually remove them from the tree or apply a biological control agent such as Bacillus thuringiensis.
By managing these diseases and pests, you can ensure the healthy growth and productivity of your Symphonia gabonensis (Vesque) Pierre plant.
