Origin
Terminalia brownii Fresen. var. gallaensis Engl. ex Diels, also commonly known as "Muheho" or "Muhoho" in Swahili, is a tree species that is native to East Africa, specifically Kenya and Tanzania.
General Appearance
The Terminalia brownii Fresen. var. gallaensis Engl. ex Diels tree species can grow up to a height of 15-20 metres. It is a deciduous tree with large, leathery leaves that are dark green in color. The bark of the tree is thick and corky, and it produces small white flowers that bloom during the tree's short leaves period.
Uses
The Terminalia brownii Fresen. var. gallaensis Engl. ex Diels tree species is highly valued for its medicinal properties. The tree's bark, leaves, and fruits are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach ulcers. The leaves of the tree are also used as a natural insecticide, while the bark is used as a natural dye for textiles.
Light Requirements
The Terminalia brownii Fresen. var. gallaensis Engl. ex Diels plant requires a lot of sunlight for optimal growth. It is recommended to expose the plant to direct sunlight for at least 6 hours per day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm weather with temperatures of about 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. It can grow in mild temperatures, but its growth may be stunted. During colder seasons, the plant needs to be protected from frost and extreme cold.
Soil Requirements
This plant grows well in well-drained loamy soil. The soil should be rich in nutrients and organic matter to support healthy growth. It is essential to maintain the pH of the soil between 5.5 and 7.5 for optimal growth. It is also essential to provide adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Cultivation Methods
Terminalia brownii Fresen. var. gallaensis Engl. ex Diels, also known as the African almond tree, is a tropical plant that grows in regions with adequate sunshine and rainfall. It prefers well-drained, loamy soils with neutral to alkaline pH. The plant can be propagated from stem cuttings or seeds.
If propagation is through stem cuttings, choose healthy shoots from the parent plant and cut off sections of about 15-30 centimeters long. Remove all the leaves from the lower part of the cutting and plant it in a well-drained medium. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of at least 25°C until new growth appears.
When propagating using seeds, the best time to plant is during the rainy season. Seeds should be soaked in hot water for a few minutes before planting to soften the hard seed coat. Plant the seeds in a well-drained medium, and keep them moist. The seeds should germinate within two to three months.
Watering Needs
Terminalia brownii Fresen. var. gallaensis Engl. ex Diels requires adequate water to thrive, especially during the dry season. Water it at least once a week, and ensure that water penetrates deep into the soil. However, the plant does not do well in waterlogged soils, so proper drainage is essential.
Fertilization
For best results, fertilize the plant at least twice a year. Apply a good-quality fertilizer to the base of the plant, ensuring that it reaches the roots. Fertilizer should be applied during the rainy season or immediately after watering, so the nutrients can get to the roots. Terminalia brownii Fresen. var. gallaensis Engl. ex Diels also benefits from mulching using organic matter to enhance soil moisture retention and control weed growth.
Pruning
Terminalia brownii Fresen. var. gallaensis Engl. ex Diels requires minimal pruning, mainly to remove dead or damaged branches. Prune during the dry season when the rate of transpiration is low and avoid cutting off more than one-third of any branch. Regular pruning helps maintain the health and shape of the African almond tree.
Propagation of Terminalia brownii Fresen. var. gallaensis Engl. ex Diels
Terminalia brownii Fresen. var. gallaensis Engl. ex Diels, commonly referred to as Galla Cerris, is propagated through several methods.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Galla Cerris are collected from mature fruits that have fallen from the tree or harvested directly from the tree. The seeds need to be cleaned and stored in a dry place before sowing. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining growing medium and covered with a thin layer of soil. The pot should be kept in a sunny location and watered regularly. The seedlings should start to emerge after 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Galla Cerris can also be propagated from cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken from mature trees during the early spring or late summer have a high success rate. The cuttings should be taken from healthy branches and be approximately 15 cm long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being placed in a well-draining medium. The pot should be kept in a warm, shady location and regularly watered. The cutting should start to root after 4-6 weeks.
Suckers Propagation
Galla Cerris can also be propagated by suckers. Suckers are shoots that originate from the roots of the parent plant. To propagate through suckers, the plants need to be mature and have formed a clump. The suckers should be removed during the dormant season and transplanted to a well-draining medium. The newly propagated plant should be watered regularly and kept in a warm, shady location until it has established.
Disease and Pest Management for Terminalia brownii Fresen. var. gallaensis Engl. ex Diels
Terminalia brownii Fresen. var. gallaensis Engl. ex Diels is generally a hardy plant but can be affected by certain diseases and pests. Proper management strategies can help control these problems and keep the plant healthy.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Terminalia brownii is leaf spot caused by the fungus Cercospora spp. It manifests as small brown spots, which can merge and cause severe defoliation if not controlled. Improved air circulation and proper plant spacing can help prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can be effective in curing the condition.
Caterpillar infestation can also be a problem, leading to defoliation and stress in the plant. Proper sanitation practices and the removal of affected leaves can help contain the problem. Insecticides may also be applied to reduce the numbers of caterpillars.
Common Pests
Mites and scale insects can also infest Terminalia brownii. Regular monitoring of the plant and keeping the area around it free from weeds and debris is essential in reducing infestations. Insecticidal soaps and oils can also be applied as a preventive measure.
Another common pest that can affect Terminalia brownii is the gall-inducing insect. Galls on leaves and shoots can lead to disfiguration and reduced productivity. Pruning and removing the affected plant parts can help manage the problem. Insecticides can also be applied to deter the pests.
Conclusion
Terminalia brownii Fresen. var. gallaensis Engl. ex Diels can be affected by certain diseases and pests, but with proper management strategies, the plant can remain healthy and productive. Monitoring the plant regularly, maintaining good sanitation practices, and applying appropriate control measures can help prevent and control the spread of pests and diseases.
