Terminalia brachystemma x sericea Exell
Terminalia brachystemma x sericea Exell is a hybrid plant that belongs to the family Combretaceae. This plant is also known as Terminalia hybrids or African almond. The plant was first discovered by a botanist named Blakelock in 1946.
Origin
The plant is native to the tropical regions of Africa, including Congo, Tanzania, and Kenya. The plant is mostly cultivated in East Africa and is widely grown for its numerous health benefits and commercial value.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the African almond or soft leaved Terminalia. In Swahili, the plant is referred to as Mkwaju or Mkokotoni.
Appearance
The African almond tree is a medium-sized tree that grows up to 25 meters high and 1 meter wide. The tree has a brown-greyish bark that is rough and flaky while the branches are slender with a yellow-brown color. The leaves are oval-shaped, glossy, and have a dark green color with a serrated margin. The flowers of the African almond tree are usually small and yellowish-green while the fruit is a small, oblong, and woody capsule.
Uses
The African almond plant has many uses. The leaves of the plant are used in traditional medicine to treat fever and stomach ailments. The bark of the tree is used to relieve pain, control diarrhea, and heal wounds. The fruit of the tree is edible and can be roasted, while the seed oil is commonly used in cosmetics and candles. Additionally, the wood of the plant is used for construction, furniture, and carving.
The African almond tree is a valuable plant that has numerous benefits. From traditional medicine to commercial value, this plant is an essential part of the East African culture and economy.
Light Conditions
Terminalia brachystemma x sericea Exell thrives in bright, indirect light. It can also tolerate partial shade or filtered light, but prolonged exposure to direct sunlight may cause scorching or drying of leaves. Therefore, it is best to place them in a place with bright, indirect light, such as near a window with sheer curtains to diffuse the sunlight.
Temperature Range
This plant species prefers warm temperatures, with ideal daytime temperatures ranging from 68°F to 86°F (20°C to 30°C). However, it can tolerate lower temperatures around 50°F (10°C) at night. Avoid exposing this plant to temperature extremes, such as drafts or sudden drops in temperature, as it may damage the leaves or stunt the growth of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Terminalia brachystemma x sericea Exell grows best in well-draining, fertile soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 to 7.0). A good potting mix for this plant consists of equal parts peat moss, perlite, and sand. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as overwatering can lead to root rot. Additionally, adding organic matter such as compost or aged manure can improve soil quality and provide essential nutrients for plant growth.
Cultivation Methods of Terminalia Brachystemma x Sericea Exell
Terminalia brachystemma x sericea Exell thrives in well-drained soil, under full sunlight and in a warm climate. The plant can be propagated by seed or stem cutting. However, seed propagation is the most successful method, whereby the seeds are soaked in water to soften the hard outer layer before planting. The seedlings should be transplanted to the field after developing the first few leaves.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering to establish a deep root system. Water should be provided immediately after planting and during prolonged periods of drought. To avoid waterlogging, the soil should be allowed to dry moderately before watering it again. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can cause root rot, which may inhibit the growth of the plant.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized at least once in a year with a balanced fertilizer, preferably during the onset of the growing season. Fertilization should be done immediately after the application of irrigation water to avoid the scorching of plant roots. The fertilizer application should be in the form of a ring around the base of the plant, followed by spreading mulch to improve the soil's water retention capacity.
Pruning
Pruning should be done lightly only to maintain the desired shape of the plant. The young plants require shaping and trimming to attain the desired form, while mature plants require minimal maintenance trimming. Diseased, damaged, or dead branches should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of the disease or infection to other parts of the plant. Pruning should be done during the dormant season to minimize damage to the growing tree and to avoid the susceptibility of the plant to disease.
Propagation of Terminalia brachystemma x sericea Exell
Terminalia brachystemma x sericea Exell, commonly known as Terminalia hybrid, is a tree that can reach up to 30 meters in height. The plant is native to Africa and is propagated using various methods, such as seed propagation, cuttings propagation, and grafting. Read on to learn more about these propagation methods:
Seed propagation
One of the most common methods used to propagate Terminalia hybrid is through seed propagation. The plant produces small fruits that contain one to three seeds each. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until they germinate. It is recommended to plant the seeds in a shaded area and avoid direct sunlight, which can cause the soil to dry out too quickly.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings propagation involves taking a stem cutting from the parent plant and planting it in soil or water until it develops roots. The cuttings are usually taken in the early spring or late fall and should be from a healthy plant. The cutting should be about 10-15 cm long and inserted into a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept moist and placed in a shaded area until new leaves start to emerge.
Grafting
Grafting is another propagation method used for Terminalia hybrid. It is a process that involves joining a scion (top part of a plant) to a rootstock (bottom part of a different plant) to create a new plant. Terminalia hybrid can be grafted using various rootstocks, such as Terminalia superba or Terminalia ivorensis. This propagation method is more complex and requires some specialized knowledge and skills, but it can result in a plant with desirable characteristics.
Overall, Terminalia brachystemma x sericea Exell can be propagated using seed propagation, cuttings propagation, and grafting. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of propagation method depends on various factors, such as availability of materials, time, and desired outcome.
Disease and Pest Management for Terminalia brachystemma x sericea Exell
Terminalia brachystemma x sericea Exell, commonly known as the West African Terminalia, is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach up to 25 meters. It is commonly cultivated as an ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and showy flowers. However, like any other plant, the West African Terminalia is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and development. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that causes small brown or black spots on the leaves of the West African Terminalia. It can be caused by various fungi that thrive in moist conditions. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and avoid watering the plant from above. Additionally, ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil and is not overcrowded with other plants.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or fungal infections. It can cause root decay, stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and plant death. To manage root rot, remove infected plants and avoid overwatering. Additionally, ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil and is not overcrowded with other plants.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes dark spots on the leaves and stem of the West African Terminalia. It can be caused by various fungi that thrive in warm and humid conditions. To manage anthracnose, prune infected branches, and avoid watering the plant from above. Additionally, ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil and is not overcrowded with other plants.
Common Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that can be found on the leaves and stems of the West African Terminalia. They feed on the plant sap, causing stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and plant death. To manage mealybugs, prune infected branches, and spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the plant with other plants.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can be found on the undersides of leaves. They suck the plant sap, causing yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and plant death. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap or neem oil. Additionally, ensure that the plant is growing in a well-ventilated area.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can be found on the leaves and stems of the West African Terminalia. They feed on the plant foliage, causing defoliation and stunted growth. To manage caterpillars, remove infected leaves and caterpillars by hand. Additionally, apply an insecticide that is safe for the plant and does not harm beneficial insects.
In conclusion, the West African Terminalia is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and development. However, with proper disease and pest management techniques, it is possible to keep the plant healthy and thriving.
