Origin
Synnema schweinfurthii (S.Moore) Bremek. is a species of plant that is native to tropical and subtropical Africa. It can be found in various countries including Angola, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Gabon, and Tanzania.
Common Names
Synnema schweinfurthii is commonly known as the African garlic, African ginger, and wild ginger in English. In the African countries where it is found, it has various local names including “lia” in Gabon, “ovukitangurira” in Uganda, “paliwu” in Sudan, and “ngwai” in Tanzania.
Uses
The roots of Synnema schweinfurthii have several medicinal uses. They are believed to have antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. The roots are also used as a remedy for stomach pains, diarrhea, and colic. In some African societies, the roots are used as a tonic for general body weakness, and also as an aphrodisiac.
The plant is also used in cooking as a spice. The rhizomes are used to flavor food and provide a pungent and spicy taste. The leaves of the plant are also sometimes used in soups and stews for their aromatic properties.
In addition, Synnema schweinfurthii has cultural significance for some African communities. It is believed to have mystical powers and is used in certain rituals and ceremonies.
General Appearance
Synnema schweinfurthii is a perennial herb that grows to a height of about 1 meter. It has long, slender rhizomes that are about 5 cm long. The plant has large, pinnately compound leaves that have a distinct spicy odor. The flowers of the plant are small, greenish-white, and arranged in compact spikes. The fruits are small capsules that contain numerous black seeds.
Overall, Synnema schweinfurthii is a hardy and attractive plant that has both medicinal and culinary uses, as well as cultural significance in some African societies.
Growth Conditions of Synnema schweinfurthii
Synnema schweinfurthii is a perennial plant species native to the tropical regions of Africa. It has specific growth requirements, which are discussed below.
Light Requirements
Synnema schweinfurthii grows well in partial shade to full sun. However, it requires protection from direct sunlight during the hottest times of the day, especially in areas with high temperatures and low humidity. The plant thrives when grown under shade trees or when provided with a shade cloth or netting to reduce the intensity of sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures but can tolerate temporary drops in temperature. The ideal temperature range for Synnema schweinfurthii growth is between 20°C to 30°C. If the temperature rises above this range, the plant will require more watering to prevent it from drying out. In cold temperatures, the plant goes dormant, and growth is halted completely.
Soil Requirements
Synnema schweinfurthii requires well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly moist but not waterlogged since the plant is prone to root rot when roots are exposed to excess water. The soil pH range should be between 6.0 and 7.0 for optimal growth.
Overall, Synnema schweinfurthii requires adequate sunlight, warm temperatures, and well-draining, nutrient-rich soil to thrive. With the right growth conditions, the plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and produce beautiful, brightly colored flowers.
Cultivation of Synnema schweinfurthii
Synnema schweinfurthii can be cultivated both outdoors and indoors in suitable conditions. The plant thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 20 to 28°C.
Watering Needs
Watering is an essential aspect of caring for Synnema schweinfurthii. The plant requires moderate watering. It should be watered when the topsoil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot and eventually kill the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilizers are necessary to provide the plant with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth. Use a balanced fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium once a month during the growing season. Be cautious not to overfertilize, as it can scorch the roots and damage the plant.
Pruning of Synnema schweinfurthii
Pruning Synnema schweinfurthii is essential to maintain its shape and remove dead and damaged parts of the plant. Pruning also encourages new buds and shoots to grow. Use sterilized pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Synnema schweinfurthii (S.Moore) Bremek.
Synnema schweinfurthii (S.moore) Bremek. can be propagated in various ways, including:
Seed propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagation in Synnema schweinfurthii (S.moore) Bremek. The seeds must be collected when they are fully matured, and the husk is brown. The seeds need to be cleaned thoroughly and then sown in a germination medium. The germination medium should be moist, but not too wet. The seeds must be kept in a warm, well-lit area until they germinate, which can take up to 6-8 weeks.
Vegetative propagation
Synemma schweinfurthii (S.moore) Bremek. can be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings. Cuttings are taken from mature plants and should be about 10-15 cm in length. The lower leaves are removed, and the cutting is dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings are then planted in a well-draining medium such as sandy loam soil. The cuttings must be kept moist and in a humid environment until they start to develop roots.
Division
Division is another method of propagation for Synemma schweinfurthii (S.moore) Bremek. This method involves dividing the root system of mature plants into several smaller sections, each containing some roots and stems. These smaller sections can be replanted in individual pots using well-draining soil and kept in a humid environment until new growth emerges.
Disease Management
Synnema schweinfurthii is generally disease-resistant but can still be affected by common diseases that affect plants such as:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is characterized by black or brown spots on the leaves and can cause them to drop prematurely. Fungicides can be applied to manage the disease.
- Rust: Rust disease appears as orange or yellow spots on the leaves, and is often caused by moisture. Applying fungicides and removing infected leaves can help suppress the disease.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white or grey powdery layer on the leaves. Managing this disease begins with proper spacing to improve airflow, applying fungicides, and removing infected plants to prevent its spread.
Pest Management
Synnema schweinfurthii can also fall prey to some pests that commonly affect plants. The following are the common pests and ways to manage them:
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the leaves of plants, causing them to appear yellowish or discolored. Managing spider mites can be done by improving plant humidity, using insecticidal soap or oil sprays and applying predatory mites.
- Whiteflies: These pests are common and can damage Synnema schweinfurthii by sucking the sap from the leaves. Yellow sticky traps and reflective mulch management methods have been found to be very effective in controlling pest numbers.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can feed on the leaves of Synnema schweinfurthii, causing serious damage to the plant. Managing these pests can be achieved by removing any infected leaves, using insecticides, and practicing regular inspections to catch infestations early.
