Introduction
Terminalia angolensis Welw. ex Ficalho, also known as the Angolan Terminalia, is a medium to large-sized evergreen tree species that belongs to the Combretaceae family. It is native to several African countries, including Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.General Appearance
The Angolan Terminalia is a sturdy tree that can grow up to 25 meters in height with a spreading and rounded crown. The bark has a grayish-brown appearance and is fissured, peeling in small rectangular plates, and revealing a reddish-brown under layer. The leaves are alternate, simple, entire, and obovate. They are around 5-10 cm long and 2-4 cm wide, with a glossy dark green surface on top and a paler green color on the underside. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers, which grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a drupe that measures about 1 cm in diameter and contains a single seed. The drupe has a smooth, glossy surface and turns from greenish-yellow to brown when mature.Common Names
The Terminalia angolensis Welw. ex Ficalho goes by various common names depending on the country and region, including Mukusi, Mutohwe, and Kanyenye in Zimbabwe; Mopane, Muvhene, and Nanga in South Africa; and Omuhengerawa and Omuhihi in Namibia.Uses
The Angolan Terminalia is a valuable tree species that has several uses. The leaves, bark, and fruits are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, and fever. The bark contains tannins and is used to make a dye, while the timber is durable, hard, and termite-resistant, making it suitable for furniture, construction, and fence poles. Additionally, the tree provides essential habitat and food for various wildlife species, including elephants, giraffes, and several bird species. In conclusion, the Terminalia angolensis Welw. ex Ficalho is a significant species that serves various ecological, social, and economic functions.Light Requirements
Terminalia angolensis Welw. ex Ficalho requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower or fruit as profusely in low light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is adapted to tropical and subtropical climates and requires warm temperatures to thrive. The ideal temperature range for Terminalia angolensis Welw. ex Ficalho is between 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F). It can tolerate higher temperatures up to 40°C (104°F) but may require more frequent watering in hot, dry conditions.
Soil Requirements
Terminalia angolensis Welw. ex Ficalho prefers well-drained soils with medium to high fertility. It can tolerate a range of soil types but does best in sandy loam or loamy soils. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic, with a range of 6.0 to 7.5 being ideal. It is important to avoid waterlogged soils as they may cause root rot and damage to the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Terminalia angolensis Welw. ex Ficalho is a drought-resistant plant species that is commonly found in the tropical regions of Africa. It requires a lot of sunlight to grow and can tolerate a wide range of soil types. To cultivate this plant, you need to get a healthy seedling from a reputable garden center or plant nursery. When planting, ensure that you dig a hole that is twice the size of the seedling's root ball. Fill the hole with fertile soil and compost. Place the plant in the hole, backfill, and gently press the soil. Water the plant thoroughly and keep the soil moist until the plant establishes itself.
Watering Needs
Terminalia angolensis Welw. ex Ficalho does not require much water to survive. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive long periods of dry spells. However, it would be best if you gave it a moderate amount of water during the hot months to keep its leaves healthy and green. When watering, give the plant enough water to dampen the soil, but don't overwater it as this may cause root rot. Always ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent water from pooling around the plant.
Fertilization
Terminalia angolensis Welw. ex Ficalho does not require much fertilizer to thrive. However, it can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Apply the fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Ensure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying the fertilizer. Overfertilizing can cause the plant to develop weak stems and an abundance of leaves, which may affect the plant's overall health.
Pruning
Pruning Terminalia angolensis Welw. ex Ficalho is not necessary as it has a naturally beautiful form. However, if the plant outgrows its space, you can prune it to control its size and shape. Pruning should be done in the summer or early fall when the plant is dormant. To prune, remove the dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Always use clean and sharp pruning tools to prevent damaging the plant. Trim the branches just above the node, where the leaves meet the stem.
Propagation of Terminalia angolensis Welw. ex Ficalho
Terminalia angolensis Welw. ex Ficalho, commonly known as the forest fever tree, is a well-known tree species that is often found in sub-Saharan African countries. It is generally utilized for multiple purposes such as timber, medicine, and fuel. Propagation is considered an essential activity in cultivating this species. The following are the propagation methods commonly employed for Terminalia angolensis:
Seed propagation
Propagation via seeds is the most popular method for Terminalia angolensis propagation. However, it is important to select mature and viable seeds for better germination rates. The seeds need to be cleaned, and all impurities removed. It is recommended to plant the seeds directly into the soil or into seed trays. The seedlings should be kept shaded and watered regularly until they are strong enough to withstand direct sunlight.
Cutting propagation
Terminalia angolensis propagation through cutting is possible, but it is relatively uncommon. This method involves taking cuttings or branches from healthy and mature trees and planting them directly into soil after treatment with rooting hormone. It’s recommended to keep the cuttings damp by covering them with a plastic cover. Once the cuttings have developed roots and new shoots, they should be kept in a shaded area and gradually exposed to the sun.
Air layering
Air layering is another propagation method for Terminalia angolensis. It involves making a wound in the bark of a mature tree, wrapping it with moist soil, and covering it with a polythene bag. Once the roots develop, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and planted in the field or a container depending on the intended use.
Grafting
Grafting can also be used to propagate Terminalia angolensis. This method involves taking a scion from a mature and healthy tree and grafting it onto a rootstock of a closely related species. The graft should be wrapped in a polythene bag, which will keep humid air around it. After some weeks, the graft will have healed, and the plant can then be moved to its permanent location.
Propagation is an essential process in cultivating Terminalia angolensis and can be achieved through various methods. The choice of the propagation method depends on the available resources, intended use, and the desired outcome.
Disease and Pest Management for Terminalia angolensis Welw. ex Ficalho
Terminalia angolensis, commonly known as the muvangu or Umbila tree, belongs to the Combretaceae family. It is a highly valued tree for its medicinal properties, construction material, and edible fruits. As with any plant, muvangu is susceptible to various diseases and pests, which can damage the tree and reduce its yield.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases affecting Terminalia angolensis are fungal infections such as leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. These diseases can be caused by various factors, including poor soil drainage, inadequate sunlight, and high humidity.
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects the leaves of the muvangu tree. Symptoms include circular or angular spots on the leaves, which may have a yellow or brown center. To manage leaf spot, it is advisable to prune and destroy infected leaves and maintain proper sanitation to prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that affects the muvangu tree. Symptoms include a white, powdery coating on leaves, stems, and fruits. This disease can be controlled by spraying the tree with a fungicide that contains copper or sulfur.
Root rot, caused by soil-borne pathogens, can also cause significant damage to the muvangu tree. To control root rot, it is essential to improve soil drainage by adding organic matter and avoiding overwatering.
Common Pests
The most common pests affecting the muvangu tree include mealybugs, scale insects, and termites. These pests can weaken the tree by feeding on the bark and leaves, causing reduced growth and yield.
Mealybugs and scale insects are sap-sucking pests that attack the muvangu tree. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, sticky honeydew, and the presence of the pests on the back of leaves and stems. To control these pests, it is advisable to prune and destroy infected leaves and use insecticidal soap or oil to suffocate the pests.
Termites are another pest that can cause significant damage to the muvangu tree. Symptoms of termite infestation include discolored leaves, damaged bark, and the presence of mud tubes on the trunk. To prevent termite infestation, it is essential to maintain good tree hygiene by removing dead wood and debris, applying a termite repellent, and using physical barriers.
Overall, disease and pest management are critical to keeping Terminalia angolensis healthy and productive. By following proper sanitation practices, maintaining good tree hygiene, and using appropriate control measures, it is possible to prevent or minimize the damage caused by diseases and pests.
