Origin and Common Names
Terminalia flava Engl. is a plant that belongs to the family Combretaceae and is found in various parts of Africa, including Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo. It is commonly known as yellow-fruited terminalia or yellow-fruited combretum.
Uses
The bark, leaves, and roots of Terminalia flava have been traditionally used in African medicine for the treatment of various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and stomach problems. The plant's bark is also used as a remedy for dysentery and gonorrhea. Additionally, the fruit pulp is edible and is used to make a refreshing drink.
Moreover, Terminalia flava is a valuable timber species, and its wood is used for making furniture, utensils, and tool handles. The plant's bark is used to make rope and twine, while its leaves serve as fodder for livestock.
General Appearance
Terminalia flava is a large tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall. It has a dense, rounded crown and a fissured bark that is dark brown to black in color. The leaves are simple, alternate, and 10-15 cm long. They have a glossy, dark green upper surface and a paler lower surface. The flowers of Terminalia flava are small and inconspicuous, and they bloom in dense, axillary spikes. The fruit is a woody drupe that is yellow or orange when mature, and it contains a single seed.
Overall, Terminalia flava is an important plant that holds a significant place in African culture and economy. Its medicinal properties, edible fruit, and valuable timber make it a vital resource for many communities in Africa.
Light Requirements
Terminalia flava Engl. is a plant that loves bright light, but not direct sunlight. It is best suited for areas with partial shade and can tolerate some full sun exposure. In low light conditions, the plant will grow slowly or not thrive. Therefore, it is suggested to provide at least six hours of daily sunlight to promote optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Terminalia flava Engl. growth is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This plant can tolerate temperature fluctuations to some extent. However, extreme cold and hot weather can lead to stunted growth, leaf drop, and even death of the plant. Therefore, it is important to maintain a consistent temperature range to support the growth and development of Terminalia flava Engl.
Soil Requirements
Terminalia flava Engl. prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic to mildly alkaline pH range. The plant can tolerate moderately heavy soil, but poorly drained soil can cause root rot and other diseases. To provide optimal growth conditions, it is essential to select a soil mix that provides good drainage, balanced nutrients, and a pH range between 6.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation methods
Terminalia flava Engl., also known as the yellow mahogany, is a tropical plant native to West Africa and found in other parts of the continent. It can be cultivated in most tropical regions provided the climate is favorable. Yellow mahogany thrives well in well-drained soils with high organic matter. In its early growth stages, the plant requires adequate sunlight, but mature plants can tolerate partial shade. The plant's propagation methods include seeds and cuttings.
Watering needs
Yellow mahogany requires moderate watering, and the frequency of watering usually depends on environmental and soil conditions. During the dry season, it is crucial to water the plants adequately as they can lose their leaves and stop growing when subjected to water stress. Optimal watering conditions for yellow mahogany entail deep and occasional watering, whereby the plants receive enough water to soak up to six inches below the surface of the soil. Overwatering should be avoided as it can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The application of fertilizers is essential for the growth and development of yellow mahogany. Fertilizer needs differ depending on the age of the tree and soil nutrient availability and are most required during periods of rapid growth. A standard fertilizer mix of NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) will be sufficient. However, Yellow mahogany is sensitive to salt buildup, and therefore, fertilizers should be applied in moderation and under the guidance of an agricultural expert.
Pruning
Yellow mahogany requires little pruning, and it is best to use sharp and sterile pruning tools. The plants can be pruned to promote a specific shape or structure or remove dead or diseased branches. Pruning should be done early during the growing season to minimize stress on the plant and allow for the regrowth of foliage. Also, pruning is an excellent method for pest management as it helps control pest populations and keep plants healthy.
Propagation Methods of Terminalia flava Engl.
Terminalia flava Engl., commonly known as the Ghana almond or yellow mahogany, is a slow-growing plant species that belongs to the Combretaceae family. Propagation of this plant can be done using both sexual and asexual methods.
Propagating Terminalia flava Engl. Through Seeds
Seeds are the easiest and most common way to propagate Terminalia flava Engl. However, it is important to note that the seeds of this plant have a short viability period. To achieve success in propagating this plant using seeds, it is crucial to collect fresh seeds that are already matured. The following are the steps to follow when propagating Terminalia flava Engl. seeds:
- Start by soaking the seeds in warm water for about 24 hours to soften the outer coat, which allows the seed to germinate faster.
- After soaking the seeds, plant them in a tray filled with well-draining soil. Ensure that the soil contains enough moisture, but not too wet, as the seeds will rot if left in waterlogged soil.
- Place the tray in a warm and well-lit area. Ensure that the temperature is around 25°C and above.
- The seed will germinate in about 14-21 days. At this point, you can transplant the young seedlings to bigger pots or to a garden bed.
Propagating Terminalia flava Engl. Through Stem Cuttings
Another method of propagating Terminalia flava Engl. is through stem cuttings. This method involves taking cuttings from the plant's stem and growing them in a separate growing medium. The following steps will guide you on how to propagate Terminalia flava Engl. using stem cuttings:
- Start by taking about 15-20 cm long stem cuttings from healthy and mature Terminalia flava Engl. plants. Ensure that the cuttings have at least two to three leaf nodes and no flowers.
- Remove any leaves or flowers from the bottom half of the cutting.
- Dip the end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder to enhance root growth.
- Pot the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and place it in a warm and well-lit area.
- Maintain the soil moisture level to ensure that it does not dry out. The cutting will develop roots in about four to six weeks.
- When the cutting is well-established and has developed roots, transplant it to a bigger pot or a garden bed.
By following the above steps, you can successfully propagate Terminalia flava Engl. using either seeds or stem cuttings. Both methods can yield healthy and vibrant plants if done correctly.
Disease and Pest Management for Terminalia flava Engl.
Terminalia flava Engl., also known as the yellow terminalia or yellow afara, is a tropical tree species found in Africa. Just like any other plants, this species is also susceptible to diseases and pests that could affect its growth and yield. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Terminalia flava and suggested ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Anthracnose - This fungal disease causes dark spots on the leaves, which could spread to the flowers and fruits. To manage this disease, it is vital to remove and destroy the affected parts. The use of fungicides may also help prevent the spread of the disease.
2. Leaf spot - This disease is characterized by brown spots on the leaves, which could lead to their premature defoliation. Removing and burning the infected leaves could help prevent the disease from spreading. The use of fungicides may also prove effective in managing this disease.
3. Powdery mildew - This fungal disease is prevalent during the rainy season. It appears as a powdery white substance on the leaves, flowers, and fruits, leading to stunted growth. To manage this disease, spraying the foliage with fungicides can help prevent its spread.
Pests
1. Stem borers - These are insect pests that bore into the stems of the Terminalia flava, causing scars and galls, leading to the death of the branches. Applying an insecticide to the affected parts could help manage the pest.
2. Aphids - These sap-sucking insects can cause severe damage by depleting the tree's nutrients, leading to its stunted growth. Spraying the tree with insecticides could help control the pest population.
3. Caterpillars - These insects can cause severe defoliation, leading to the tree's reduced ability to produce yields. Applying insecticides could help manage the pest population.
It is essential to note that the most effective way to manage these diseases and pests is to prevent them from infecting the Terminalia flava. Regularly inspecting the plants, removing and destroying any affected parts, and ensuring proper sanitation could help prevent diseases and pest infestations. Additionally, routine application of fertilizers could help boost the tree's immune system, making it less susceptible to diseases and pest attacks.
