Description of Terminalia cycloptera R.Br.
Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. is a small tree or large shrub that belongs to the Combretaceae family. This plant is commonly known by different names such as Basterd Marula, Spotted-Leaved Terminalia, or Murula.
Origin
Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. is native to Southern Africa, particularly in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. This plant grows in a variety of habitats, including dry woodlands and savannas.
General Appearance
Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. has a characteristic of a medium-sized tree that grows up to 7 meters tall. The bark of this plant is pale grey or light brown, and it peels in patches. The leaves are alternate, simple and elliptic with a dark green color on the upper side and a paler green on the lower side. Its flowers appear in November and December with attractive umbels of greenish-white flowers.
Uses
The fruit of Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. is edible and has a sweet, slightly acidic flavor. The fruit is a valuable source of nutrition for humans and animals. It is also used to produce jams, jellies, and various beverages. The bark of this plant is used for medicinal purposes, particularly to treat diarrhea, stomach aches, and dysentery. The leaves, on the other hand, have antimicrobial properties that are useful for the treatment of various infectious diseases.
Light Requirements
Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. thrives under direct sunlight and requires at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. It can also grow well in partial shade conditions, but the growth rate may be slower.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best within a temperature range of 20-30 degrees Celsius. Frost can damage the plant, and extended exposure to high temperatures beyond 35 degrees Celsius can be harmful as well.
Soil Requirements
Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. prefers well-draining soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and capable of holding moisture without becoming waterlogged. The plant can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soil types, as long as the soil is not too heavy.
Cultivation Methods
The Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. plant is best cultivated in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant prefers a warm, tropical climate and grows best in full sun. The ideal temperature range for cultivation is 22°C to 28°C. Propagation of the plant can be done through seed or cuttings.
Watering Needs
Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. requires adequate watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Over-watering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. The amount of water needed varies depending on the climate and soil conditions. It is important to ensure regular watering during the first few months after planting to establish the roots.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the growth and development of Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. plant. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 should be applied every 2-3 months during the growing season. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers should be avoided as they can cause excessive vegetative growth and reduce the quality of flowers.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. plant. The plant should be pruned during the dormant period to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. The pruning should also be done to promote better air circulation and light penetration in the canopy. However, excessive pruning should be avoided as it can lead to loss of flowering and fruiting.
Propagation of Terminalia Cycloptera R.Br.
Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. can be propagated by using various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
The propagation of Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. through seeds is a straightforward and uncomplicated process. The seeds can be collected from the fruits once they are ripe, and should be sown immediately for better germination. Before sowing, the seed coat can be scarified or nicked using sandpaper to improve the chances of germination. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and maintain the soil moisture. The seeds usually take 2-3 weeks to germinate at a temperature of 20-25°C.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings are another popular propagation method for Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. The cuttings can be taken from semi-hardwood or hardwood branches in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be 10-15 cm long, and the leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be trimmed off. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil mix. Maintain the soil moisture and temperature, and the cutting should develop roots within 6-8 weeks.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting is the most advanced and effective method for propagating Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. This method involves joining a part of one plant (the scion) with another plant (the rootstock) to create a new plant that has the desirable characteristics of both parents. The scion and rootstock should be of similar diameters. The graft should be done in the springtime by making a slanting cut on both scion and rootstock, allowing them to fit together perfectly. Then, secure them in place with grafting tape, and keep the plant in a moist and warm environment until the graft establishes. Grafting results in a stronger and more disease-resistant plant.
Disease Management
Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. is generally a healthy plant, but it can be affected by a few diseases. One of the common diseases that affect this plant is leaf spot. Leaf spots appear as small, dark spots on the leaves and can spread quickly if not managed properly. Another common disease is root rot. Root rot can be caused by overwatering or poor drainage and can lead to the death of the plant.
One way to manage leaf spot is by removing infected leaves and disposing of them properly. It is also essential to avoid overhead watering and ensure that the plant has adequate air circulation. In the case of root rot, it is essential to improve drainage by ensuring that the soil is not compacted. Overwatering should be avoided, and the plant should be allowed to dry out between watering.
Pest Management
Terminalia cycloptera R.Br. can also be affected by pests, including spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Spider mites are tiny pests that are almost invisible to the naked eye, but their presence can be detected by the fine webbing they produce. Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that appear as white, cottony masses on the leaves and stems. Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant.
One way to manage spider mites and mealybugs is by washing the plant with a gentle stream of water. A solution of water and dish soap can also be used to remove these pests. Scale insects can be removed by scraping them off the plant with a toothbrush. In severe cases, an insecticide can be used, but this should be done as a last resort and only after other methods have failed.
