Overview
Terminalia canescens Engl., also known as the gray-woolly terminalia, is a species of tree in the Combretaceae family. It is native to East and southern Africa.
Common Names
The plant goes by various common names, including African almond, ash-grey terminalia, Ashe terminalia, grey-leaved terminalia, and more.
Uses
Various parts of Terminalia canescens are useful in traditional medicine. The bark is known to have astringent and antipyretic properties and is used as a remedy for diarrhea and fever. The leaves are used as a treatment for dysentery, while the roots are used for treating stomach ailments. Additionally, the wood of Terminalia canescens is popular in the manufacture of furniture, poles, and fencing.
Appearance
The gray-woolly terminalia is a medium-sized tree, which typically grows about 25 meters tall. The tree has a rounded crown and the bark is grayish-brown. The leaves are simple, elliptic-shaped, and measure about 5 to 15 cm long. They are light green in color and have a silky texture, which gives the tree its characteristic woolly appearance. Terminalia canescens blooms from November to January with very small, cream-colored flowers which usually grow in clusters.
Growth Conditions for Terminalia canescens Engl.
Terminalia canescens Engl., commonly known as the Grey-Leaved Terminalia, is a small to a medium-sized tree native to the African continent. It grows to a height of 5-20 meters with a stem diameter of 20-60 cm. The tree is found in various habitats ranging from dry forests to savanna woodlands and coastal bushlands. Here are some of the typical growth conditions for Terminalia canescens:
Light Requirements:
Terminalia canescens requires a significant amount of sunlight to grow properly. The tree is well adapted to withstand long hours of direct sunlight exposure and can tolerate partial shading. To achieve optimum growth and development, it is recommended to expose the tree to full sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day.
Temperature:
The Grey-Leaved Terminalia requires warm to hot temperatures to grow and thrive. The tree is well adapted to grow in temperatures ranging from 20-35°C. However, it can also withstand cold temperatures of up to 5°C. Extreme temperature fluctuations can impact the growth of the tree, and it is therefore essential to maintain optimum temperature conditions for proper growth.
Soil Requirements:
The tree can grow in different types of soil, including sandy, clayey, and loamy soils. However, it grows best in soils that are well-drained, fertile, and rich in organic matter. The tree can tolerate soils that are slightly acidic or alkaline, but a pH range of 6.0-7.5 is ideal. In areas with poor soil, it is recommended to amend with organic matter to improve soil fertility and drainage.
Water:
Terminalia canescens is well adapted to drought conditions and can withstand long periods without water. However, the tree requires a moderate amount of water to grow and thrive optimally. In areas with low rainfall, it is recommended to irrigate the tree to ensure adequate water supply for proper growth.
In summary, Terminalia canescens requires full sunlight exposure, warm temperatures, well-drained and fertile soil, and a moderate amount of water to grow and thrive. When grown under these conditions, the tree can provide various ecological and economic benefits, including soil conservation, timber production, and medicinal value.Cultivation methods
Terminalia canescens Engl. plant requires well-draining soil and ample sunlight to thrive. It can be grown in pots or in the ground, depending on the available space. The plant can survive in a variety of soil types, provided it is well-draining and rich in organic matter.
Propagation of the Terminalia canescens plant is typically done through seedlings. The seeds must be planted in well-draining soil and kept warm until they germinate. Once the seedlings reach a height of 6-8 inches, they can be transplanted to their growing location.
Watering needs
The Terminalia canescens plant requires moderate watering. Too much water can lead to root rot, so it's best to water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry. During hot weather, the plant may require more frequent watering to prevent dehydration and drying out.
Fertilization
Fertilization of the Terminalia canescens plant should be done in the early spring. A balanced fertilizer that includes nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be used. The plant should be fertilized every four weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth and development.
Pruning
Pruning the Terminalia canescens plant is recommended during the winter months when the plant is dormant. Any dead or damaged branches should be removed using clean and sharp pruning shears. Pruning can help promote new growth and also help maintain the shape and size of the plant.
Propagation of Terminalia canescens Engl.
Terminalia canescens Engl., also known as Grey-haired Terminalia, is a popular ornamental tree that is native to tropical Africa. The plant can be propagated through different methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common way to propagate Terminalia canescens. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits and soaked in water for 24 hours. After soaking, the seeds should be sown in a well-prepared nursery bed filled with fertile soil. The bed should be kept moist until the seeds germinate, which can take about three weeks. Once seedlings have emerged, they should be transplanted into individual polythene bags or pots with a well-draining soil mixture. Seedlings should be placed in partial shade for the first two months and gradually introduced to full sunlight.
Cuttings Propagation
Terminalia canescens can also be propagated through stem cuttings, although the success rate is usually low. Semi-hardwood cuttings are collected from healthy, disease-free plants during the rainy season when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long and should be treated with a rooting hormone to stimulate root growth. The cuttings should then be planted in a well-prepared nursery bed with moist, fertile soil. The bed should be covered with polythene sheeting to maintain humidity and reduce water loss. After about eight weeks, the cuttings should develop roots and can be transplanted into individual pots.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Terminalia canescens. This method involves creating a root system on a stem while it is still attached to the mother plant. A section of the stem is selected, and a ring of bark about 2 cm wide is removed. The exposed area is then covered with a rooting hormone and wrapped with moist sphagnum moss. The moss is then covered with a plastic sheet to maintain humidity and prevent water loss. Roots should develop after about six weeks. Once roots are well-established, the stem can be cut and transplanted into an individual pot.
Disease Management for Terminalia Canescens Engl.
Terminalia canescens Engl. is a hardy plant that is resistant to several diseases. However, it can be affected by some common diseases, such as:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to defoliation. It can be managed by removing infected leaves and using fungicides.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that infect the plant's roots, causing them to decay. To manage root rot, it is crucial to avoid waterlogging the soil and ensure proper drainage. Infected plants should be removed and disposed of, and the soil should be treated with fungicides.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. The affected parts of the plant should be removed and destroyed, and fungicides can be used for management.
Pest Management for Terminalia Canescens Engl.
Terminalia canescens Engl. is also susceptible to pest attacks. Some pests that commonly affect this plant include:
- Mealybugs: These pests feed on the sap from the leaves, causing wilting and yellowing. They can be managed by removing infected leaves and using insecticidal soaps or oils.
- Aphids: These pests also feed on the sap from the leaves, causing stunted growth and deformities. They can be managed by using insecticidal soaps or oils, or by introducing natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings.
- Spider mites: These pests cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves and can be managed by increasing humidity levels or using insecticidal soaps or oils.
It is essential to monitor the plant regularly for any signs of diseases or pests and take appropriate actions promptly to prevent the spread and further damage. Practicing good sanitation, such as removing fallen leaves and debris, can also help prevent disease and pest infestations in the plant.
