Plant Description:
Tenaris subaphylla (K.Schum.) N.E.Br. is a species of plant from the family of Melastomataceae. It is a small tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall. Its bark is dark brown, and its wood is hard and durable. The leaves are alternate, simple, and elliptic-shaped with a pointed apex. The flowers grow in panicles and are deep pink to purple in color.
Origin and Common Names:
Tenaris subaphylla (K.Schum.) N.E.Br. is native to tropical Africa, specifically in Cameroon, Gabon, Congo, DR Congo, and Nigeria. The plant has several common names, including African maple, Kamassa, and Ndavoe.
Uses:
Tenaris subaphylla (K.Schum.) N.E.Br. has several uses in traditional medicine. Various parts of the plant, including the roots, leaves, and bark, are used to treat various ailments, including fever, coughs, and stomach complaints. The bark of the tree is also used to make a tea that is believed to heal wounds and treat stomach ulcers. The wood of Tenaris subaphylla (K.Schum.) N.E.Br.is used for building materials, furniture, and fuelwood.
In addition, the Tenaris subaphylla (K.Schum.) N.E.Br.'s hard and durable wood is used in the construction of window frames, doors, and rafters. It is also used to make agricultural tools such as hoe handles. The plant's leaves are a good source of fodder for livestock.
Light Requirements
Tenaris subaphylla typically grows in a well-lit environment with partial shade. It requires ample sunlight for healthy growth, but too much exposure can be harmful. For indoor growing, it is recommended to place the plant near a south or west-facing window to ensure it receives sufficient light.
Temperature Requirements
Tenaris subaphylla thrives in warm temperatures between 20-30°C. Temperature fluctuations can be harmful, so it is important to maintain a consistent temperature in the plant's growing environment. Temperatures below 15°C can be quite detrimental to the plant's health, so it is recommended to protect it from cold drafts or frost.
Soil Requirements
Tenaris subaphylla requires well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level (5.5-7). The plant prefers slightly moist soil but can tolerate periods of drought. It is recommended to add perlite or sand to the soil to improve drainage. Adding organic matter to the soil can be beneficial for the growth of the plant.
Cultivation of Tenaris subaphylla
Tenaris subaphylla is a low-maintenance plant that can be easily cultivated. It is important to note that this plant requires well-draining soil, enriched with organic matter. The plant is best grown in areas with adequate sunlight and good air circulation.
Watering Needs of Tenaris subaphylla
Tenaris subaphylla prefers moist soil, but it is important to avoid overwatering. Watering the plant once a week is typically sufficient, but this may vary depending on the prevailing climatic conditions. It is best to check the soil's moisture level before watering to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization of Tenaris subaphylla
Fertilize Tenaris subaphylla during the growing season, using a balanced slow-release fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the package for best results. It is important to avoid over-fertilizing Tenaris subaphylla, as this can lead to the accumulation of salts in the soil, which can be detrimental to the plant's health.
Pruning of Tenaris subaphylla
Tenaris subaphylla requires minimal pruning. Dead or damaged leaves can be removed to maintain the plant's overall appearance. You can prune Tenaris subaphylla in the late winter or early spring to encourage healthy growth.
Propagation of Tenaris subaphylla (K.Schum.) N.E.Br.
Tenaris subaphylla (K.Schum.) N.E.Br. can be propagated through various means such as seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and tissue culture.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Tenaris subaphylla (K.Schum.) N.E.Br. Seeds can be sown directly into the soil or in seed trays. The seeds should be cleaned and scarified before sowing to increase their germination rate. Seedlings must be kept well-watered and protected from direct sunlight until they are established.
Vegetative propagation
Tenaris subaphylla (K.Schum.) N.E.Br. can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings or layering. Stem cuttings should be taken from mature and healthy plants during the growing season. The cuttings are then planted in soil or a rooting hormone to stimulate root growth. Layering involves bending a low branch of the plant and covering a portion of it with soil or another rooting medium. The covered portion will develop roots and can be separated from the parent plant once it has established itself.
Tissue culture propagation
Tissue culture propagation is a relatively new method of propagating Tenaris subaphylla (K.Schum.) N.E.Br. It involves taking a small tissue sample from the plant and growing it in a nutrient-rich medium. The sample will grow into an exact copy of the parent plant and can be used to produce large quantities of identical plants.
Disease Management
Tenaris subaphylla is susceptible to a few common fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. Powdery mildew presents as a white dusting on the leaves and stems of the plant. Rust appears as rusty colored patches on the plant's leaves. Leaf spots are black or brown discolorations on the foliage.
To manage powdery mildew, remove infected parts of the plant and improve air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering and reduce the amount of humidity around the plant. Fungicide applications can be made to manage the disease.
Rust and leaf spots can be managed in the same manner as powdery mildew. Removing infected leaves and improving air circulation should control the spread of the disease. Fungicide applications can also be made to manage these diseases.
Pest Management
The main pests that might affect Tenaris subaphylla are aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, which can weaken the plant's overall health and lead to stunted growth and deformities.
To manage these pests, keep the plant in a healthy state by providing adequate water and nutrients. Natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced to prey on the pest insects. Insecticidal soaps and oils can also be used to control the pests.
Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pest infestation and act immediately to prevent the pests from spreading to other plants. Removing infected parts of the plant and maintaining good hygiene practices around the plant can also help reduce the incidence of pest infestation.
