Origin and Common Names
Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert is a small tree species that belongs to the family Rutaceae. It is endemic to Kenya, specifically found in the Bura and Tana River National Primate Reserve. It goes by several common names, such as Bura orange, Tana River orange, bush orange, and wild orange.
General Appearance
Teclea borenensis is a small tree that can grow up to 5 meters tall. Its crown is dense, and the bark is brown and slightly rough. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and pinnately compound, with 5-9 leaflets that measure about 3-8 cm long by 1.5-3.5 cm wide. The flowers of the Teclea borenensis tree are small, white or creamy, and bloom in terminal, corymbose panicles.
Uses
The Bura orange or Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert is commonly used for medicinal purposes. The leaves are believed to have anti-microbial properties, and are used to treat various illnesses such as stomach-aches, flu, coughs, and other respiratory infections. The fruits are also edible, and can be consumed either fresh or dried, or made into a refreshing juice. The wood of the tree is hard and durable, making it valuable for making tool handles, and other wooden household items
Light Requirements:
Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert prefers a bright location with direct sunlight exposure for at least 6 hours daily. This species shows optimal growth and productivity under full sun or partial shade. However, it's recommended to avoid exposing the plant to extreme light intensities as it may damage the leaves and cause dehydration.
Soil Requirements:
The ideal soil for Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert is well-drained, loose, and fertile soil with a pH range between 5.5-7.5. This plant is tolerant to a wide range of soil types, but it tends to grow best in sandy loam or clay loam soil. The soil should be enriched with organic matter, and it's recommended to add compost or manure before planting this species.
Temperature Requirements:
Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid environments. The optimal temperature range for this species is between 20-30 °C (68-86 °F). It does not tolerate frost or freezing temperatures, and it may die if exposed to temperatures below 10 °C (50 °F). Therefore, it's essential to maintain a consistent temperature and avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Cultivation
Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert is a hardy, drought-tolerant plant that is native to the savannah and woodland regions of Africa. It is a low-maintenance plant that can be easily cultivated both indoors and outdoors.
If growing indoors, the plant should be placed in a well-draining pot with good quality potting soil. It prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate partial shade. When grown outdoors, it should be planted in a well-drained soil in full sun. This plant does well in USDA hardiness zones 10 to 11.
Watering
Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert has low to medium water needs. When grown indoors, allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Outdoors, water the plant once a week in the summer months and every two weeks in the winter months. Always avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. When grown outdoors, use a slow-release fertilizer that can last up to six months. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using fertilizers. Avoid overfertilizing Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert as this can damage the plant.
Pruning
Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert doesn't require regular pruning. However, you can trim back any dead or yellowing leaves to promote new growth. Prune the plant to maintain the desired shape and size in the spring months before new growth begins.
Propagation for Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert
Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert can be propagated by various methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and layering. Depending on the condition, some methods may be more successful than others.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds are the most common and easiest way to propagate Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert. Collect seeds from the mature fruit, which is usually available from November to January. The fruit should be carefully peeled, and the seeds dried in the shade for a day or two. Sow the seeds in a tray or pots containing a well-drained compost mix (50% compost, 30% sand, and 20% loam). Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, and place the container in a warm, shaded area. Germination usually occurs within 3 to 6 weeks. After germination, transplant the seedlings to a bigger pot. Wait until the plants are mature enough to be transplanted to the final location in the garden when they are 3 to 4 months old.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are another way to propagate Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert. Cut a 15-20 cm stem from the parent plant using a clean, sharp knife, making sure to take only the hardwood. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Plant the stem in a well-drained compost mix (50% compost, 30% sand, and 20% loam) and water thoroughly. Keep the soil moist, but avoid waterlogging. Cover the container with a plastic bag or a transparent bottle to create a humid environment. Place the container in bright shade. The stem will start to root within 4 to 6 weeks. After a few months, transplant the rooted cutting into a bigger pot or to the final location in the garden.
Propagation by layering
Layering is a propagation method that involves bending a branch of the plant towards the ground and covering part of it with soil. The bent part of the branch will start to develop roots while still attached to the parent plant. After the roots have developed, the branch can be cut, and the new Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert plant can be planted into the ground. This method is helpful for plants that are difficult to root from cuttings or when seeds are not readily available.
Disease Management
Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert is a hardy plant species that is not susceptible to many diseases. However, the plant is known to be vulnerable to some fungal pathogens. The following are some common diseases that may affect Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert:
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes irregular brown spots on leaves and stems. To manage this disease, prune the affected parts of the plant and dispose of them properly. Avoid overcrowding and make sure the plant is grown in well-drained soil and gets enough sunlight.
- Leaf Spot: This disease causes circular brown spots on leaves. To manage this disease, remove the affected parts of the plants and avoid overhead watering. Use a fungicide spray to manage and control the spread of the disease.
- Rust: Rust disease will show on the plant as yellow or orange pustules on the underside of the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and dispose of the leaves with pustules. Provide good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Use fungicide as a control measure.
Pest Management
Pests are not a significant problem for Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert, but some commonly identified pests that may attack the plant are:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests are quite common, damaging the leaves by sucking the sap out of them. To manage spider mite infestation, introduce natural predators like ladybugs, spider mite predators, and predatory mites.
- Caterpillars: The larvae of butterflies or moths feed on the leaves, flowers, and fruits of the Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert plant. To manage caterpillar infestation, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) pesticide or physically remove them by hand.
- Scale Insects: These pests are tiny and will often look like bumps or shells on the plant's stems. To manage this infestation, wipe the stems with rubbing alcohol or use a horticultural oil spray to smother the pests.
It is important to note that the best way to manage pests and diseases on Teclea borenensis M.G.Gilbert is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. This can be achieved through proper plant selection, correct planting methods, good cultural practices such as pruning, correct watering, fertilization, and pest monitoring.
