Origin and Common Names
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro, also known as Hanang teak, is a plant species belonging to the Rutaceae family. It is endemic to Tanzania, particularly found in the Hanang Mountain region. Hanang teak has no known colloquial names, but its scientific name is derived from its discovery location and leaf characteristics.
Appearance
The Hanang teak is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 6m tall. Its bark is gray, and the branches are thorny. The leaves are simple, alternate, and unifoliolate, with a dark green color. The flowers are axillary and yellow-greenish. The fruit is globose, purple-black in color, and contains two to three seeds.
Uses
The Hanang teak is used in traditional medicine as an antidote for snake bites, coughs, and stomach problems. The plant contains alkaloids, coumarins, flavonoids, and terpenoids, which have pharmacological properties. Additionally, Hanang teak wood is used for construction, fuel, and charcoal production. Its bark is also used to make ropes, while the fruit is edible, and the seeds are used for oil extraction.
Light requirements
The Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro requires a moderate level of sunlight exposure. The plant grows well when placed in partially shaded areas, where the sun's rays can reach it for about 4-5 hours a day. If exposed to full sunlight, the plant's leaves may become scorched and turn brown or yellow.
Temperature requirements
The plant prefers a warm, tropical climate. The ideal average temperature range for Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro growth is between 20°C and 28°C. The plant is sensitive to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures and can't withstand frost. In areas with temperatures below 10°C, the plant should be grown indoors or within a greenhouse.
Soil requirements
The soil where Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro will be planted should be well-draining, slightly acidic, and rich in organic matter. The plant requires soil with a pH range between 5.5 and 6.5, which is typically found in loamy soil types. If the soil is heavy and does not drain well, add perlite or vermiculite to improve drainage. The addition of mulch around the plant will help retain moisture and stabilize the temperature of the soil.
Cultivation
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro is a hardy plant that can be grown in various ecological zones. It thrives well in well-draining soils that are rich in nutrients. The plant requires adequate sunlight, and it is recommended to provide partial shade during the hottest hours of the day.
The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. However, propagating through seeds can be challenging, and it is recommended to use cuttings. You can propagate the plant by taking cuttings from the parent plant during the rainy season. Prepare the cutting by removing the lower leaves and inserting it into well-prepared soil.
Watering Needs
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro requires regular watering. The plant prefers moderate to high soil moisture, especially during the growing season. However, overwatering should be avoided, as it can cause root rot. Always ensure the soil is moist, but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential, especially for potted plants. Use a balanced fertilizer with a higher percentage of nitrogen during the growing season to promote healthy foliage growth. During the dormant season, use a low-nitrogen fertilizer to help the plant store nutrients in preparation for the next growing season. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application.
Pruning
Regular pruning is necessary to maintain the plant's shape and size. Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro is a slow-growing plant, and pruning can be done annually before the beginning of the growing season. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim back any overgrown branches. Always use clean and sterile pruning equipment to avoid spreading disease to the plant.
Propagation of Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro, commonly known as Hanang Teclea, is a rare plant species that is endemic to Tanzania. It is a slow-growing, evergreen shrub that grows up to 2-3 meters tall. Propagation of Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro can be done through various methods that include:
Propagation through seeds
Propagation through seeds is one of the most common methods of propagating Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro. This method involves collecting mature and healthy fruits/seeds from the parent plant. The collected seeds should then be cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool and dry place before they are sown. Sowing can be done in seedling trays filled with a well-draining potting mix. The trays should be kept in a warm and bright place, and the seedlings should be watered regularly until they are ready for transplanting.
Propagation through cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another effective method of propagating Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro. This method involves collecting stem cuttings from a healthy and mature plant. The cuttings should be taken during the spring or summer months when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long, and the leaves on the lower half should be removed. The cuttings should then be dipped in rooting hormone before they are planted in a well-draining potting mix. The pot should be covered with a plastic bag to retain moisture and keep the cuttings warm. The cuttings should be watered regularly until they have developed roots and are ready for transplanting.
Propagation through layering
Propagation through layering is a method that involves pegging down a healthy and mature shoot from the parent plant and covering it with soil or potting mix to encourage new roots to develop. Once roots have formed, the shoot can be cut off from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location. This method can be done during the spring or summer months when the plant is actively growing. It is a slow process, but it is an effective way of producing new plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant.
Disease Management
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. Some of the common diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Canker disease: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens that infect the stem and leaves of the plant. It results in the formation of lesions and can cause wilting and defoliation. To manage canker disease, prune and destroy infected plant parts and apply a fungicide spray.
- Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is caused by a fungal pathogen that affects the leaves, stem, and flowers of the plant. It results in a white powdery coating on the leaves that can cause them to yellow and fall. To manage powdery mildew, remove and destroy infected plant parts, and apply a fungicide spray.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is caused by a bacterial or fungal pathogen that infects the leaves of the plant. It results in circular lesions that can cause defoliation and reduce plant growth. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected plant parts, and apply a fungicide or bactericide spray.
Pest Management
Teclea hanangensis Kokwaro var. unifoliolata Kokwaro can also be affected by various pests, which can cause damage to the plant. Some of the common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. They can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunting of the plant. To manage aphids, prune and destroy infected plant parts, and apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.
- Mites: Mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage mites, prune and destroy infected plant parts, and apply a miticide spray.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves of the plant. They can cause defoliation and reduce plant growth. To manage caterpillars, prune and destroy infected plant parts, and apply a biological or chemical pesticide.
