Overview
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis is a plant species that belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is a deciduous shrub or small tree found in East and Central African countries, mostly Tanzania and Kenya, where it grows in semi-arid regions and highland forests at elevations of 1500-2400 meters above sea level.
Appearance
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis has a multi-stemmed habit and can reach a height of 3-12 meters. The bark is grayish brown with deep pits and fissures. The leaves are large and compound, with up to 16 leathery leaflets, each 2-6 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. They are a bright, shiny green on the upper side and paler below, with serrated edges. The flowers form clusters at the ends of the branches and are small, white, and fragrant. The fruit is a round, fleshy drupe that turns red when ripe, with a diameter of 8-15 mm.
Common Names
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis is known by several common names such as Hanang teclea, Hanang bush orange, and Shilingi-mojaa in different places.
Uses
The plant has several traditional medicinal uses in Africa. The roots, bark, and leaves are used to treat a variety of ailments, including malaria, stomach disorders, skin diseases, and respiratory infections. The fruit is edible, but it is not commonly consumed, although it is used by some communities to produce a local alcoholic beverage. Additionally, the plant is used as a source of firewood and charcoal and its aromatic twigs are used in the production of incense.
Light Requirements
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis grows best in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. Adequate lighting stimulates the process of photosynthesis, enabling the plant to manufacture food and grow healthy leaves and stems.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in moderate temperatures, preferably from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. However, it can also tolerate below-freezing temperature ranges in a semi-dormant state. Failure to maintain an optimum temperature can lead to stunted growth, wilting, or even death.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is optimal for growth. It is recommended to prepare the soil extensively before planting by incorporating compost or other natural fertilizers. Additionally, the soil should hold moisture but not be waterlogged, as flooding can cause significant damage to the plant's root system.
Cultivation
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures to thrive. Ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic and in a location that receives full sunlight. Seedlings can be propagated using seeds or stem cuttings.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil evenly moist, especially during the growing season. However, avoid overwatering, which can lead to waterlogging and root rot. During the dormant season, reduce watering to prevent the soil from becoming too wet. Ensure that the plant is not exposed to standing water.
Fertilization
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth. Use a balanced fertilizer with an equal amount of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer to the plant's base, ensuring that it doesn't come in direct contact with its leaves or stem. Fertilization should be done once every month during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to keep Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis in good health. Trim off any dead or diseased branches, and prune the plant's tips to promote branching. The best time to prune is during the dormant season after flowering. Avoid overpruning, which can stunt the plant's growth.
Propagation of Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis can be propagated through various methods depending on the resources available and desired outcome. Some of the propagation methods include:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is one of the common methods used to propagate Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis. This method involves collecting seeds from mature fruits and sowing them in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth that is equal to their size. It is advisable to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged to support seed germination. Seed propagation is best done during the warmer months and can take several weeks to months for germination to occur.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings propagation is another method to propagate Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis. This method involves taking stem cuttings from mature plants and rooting them in a well-draining potting mix. Cuttings should be taken during the warmer months and dipped in a rooting hormone before planting. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged until new growth emerges.
Air layering propagation
Air layering propagation is another method that can be used to propagate Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis. This method involves inducing roots to grow in a specific section of a woody stem while still attached to the parent plant. The section is then cut off and planted in well-draining soil. This method is particularly useful when propagating mature plants with woody stems.
Regardless of the propagation method used, it is essential to ensure that the newly propagated plants are kept in optimal growing conditions to support their establishment and growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis, a species of the citrus family, may face several issues with pests and diseases. The best approaches to managing the plant's health include regular inspection, prevention, and appropriate treatment.
Common Diseases
Leaf spot, citrus scab, and powdery mildew are some of the common diseases that may affect Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis. Leaf spot causes circular to oblong spots, which later turn rusty brown. Citrus scab gives a scabby appearance to the fruit and leaves, leading to their premature drop. Powdery mildew causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves.
The best way to control these diseases is by early detection and sanitation. Clean up any dropped or infected plant material immediately and destroy it. Use appropriate fungicides, such as copper-based compounds, to control these diseases. Follow manufacturer's instructions on how and when to apply properly.
Common Pests
Several pests target Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. hanangensis. Citrus psyllids feed on the sap of the tree, leaving yellow patches on leaves, which may later wither. Whiteflies, thrips, and scale insects cause yellowing and deformation of the leaves.
To protect the plant from pest attack, inspect regularly to check for pest infestation. Use insecticides made for citrus plants to control the pest. Neem oil products are effective in controlling some pests. However, follow the manufacturer's instructions on how and when to apply them properly.
Regular maintenance practices, such as pruning and fertilizing, helps keep the plants healthy and less susceptible to diseases and pests. Keeping the surrounding area clean and removing weeds and grass also helps eliminate hideouts for potential pests and diseases.
