Overview of Terminalia phanerophlebia Engl. & Diels
Terminalia phanerophlebia Engl. & Diels is a species of deciduous tree that belongs to the family Combretaceae. It is commonly known as the "Undu" tree and is native to tropical East Africa, including Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
General Appearance of Terminalia phanerophlebia Engl. & Diels
The "Undu" tree has a moderate growth rate and can grow up to 20m in height with a trunk diameter of up to 70cm. Its crown is made up of spreading branches that are delicate and drooping. The bark is dark gray, and the tree has brittle twigs that break easily when bent. The leaves are glossy and a deep green color with a length of 5-15cm and a width of 2.5-6cm. The leaf tips are pointed, while the base is rounded. The flowers are small and greenish-white, with a length of 5mm. The fruits are ovoid in shape and are borne in clusters at the end of branches.
Uses of Terminalia phanerophlebia Engl. & Diels
The tree is highly valued for its timber, which is used for construction, joinery, and furniture making. The bark, roots, and leaves are also useful for medicinal purposes. In Kenya, the bark is boiled and used to treat diarrhea, while the leaves and bark are used to treat fever and colds. In Tanzania, the bark and roots are used to make an infusion that helps with stomach pains, diarrhea, and dysentery.
The "Undu" tree also has several other uses. The fruits are edible, and the tree serves as a host plant for insects. The tree's shade and beauty make it an ideal tree for landscaping. It is also valued for its ability to recover degraded land and stabilize soils in areas prone to erosion.
Overall, Terminalia phanerophlebia Engl. & Diels is a versatile and valuable tree species that plays an essential role in the ecosystem and the livelihoods of people in East Africa.
Light Requirements:
Terminalia phanerophlebia is a shade-tolerant plant and can grow in both full sun and partial shade. However, it prefers indirect sunlight and grows best when grown under 50-70% shade cloth.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but its optimal temperature range is between 20 to 30°C. It can survive in temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 40°C for a short period.
Soil Requirements:
The Terminalia phanerophlebia plant prefers well-drained soils that contain organic matter, such as loamy sand, sandy loam, or clay loam soils. It does not tolerate waterlogging conditions and grows best in soils that have a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation methods
Terminalia phanerophlebia Engl. & Diels is a drought-tolerant plant that grows well in full sun or partial shade. It can be cultivated in sandy or loamy soil and is tolerant of a variety of soil conditions. Prior to planting, ensure that the soil is well-draining and has a pH level of 6-7.
To cultivate this plant, begin by digging a hole that is twice the size of the plant container. Gently remove the plant from the container and place it in the hole. Backfill the hole with soil, ensuring that the plant is adequately covered. Water the plant thoroughly and spread a layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture.
Watering needs
As a drought-tolerant plant, Terminalia phanerophlebia Engl. & Diels requires minimal watering. In general, it is only necessary to water the plant when the top inch of the soil has dried out. Avoid overwatering the plant, as this can lead to root rot and other problems. When watering, apply the water at the base of the plant and avoid getting the leaves wet.
Fertilization
Terminalia phanerophlebia Engl. & Diels benefits from occasional fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer in the early spring, just as the plant begins to emerge from dormancy. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and methods.
Pruning
Pruning is generally not necessary for Terminalia phanerophlebia Engl. & Diels, as it naturally grows into a well-shaped tree. However, if pruning is desired, do so in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and thin out any crossing branches to improve airflow and light penetration. Avoid pruning too heavily, as this can damage the plant and reduce its overall health and vitality.
Propagation of Terminalia phanerophlebia Engl. & Diels
Terminalia phanerophlebia Engl. & Diels is a plant species that belongs to the family Combretaceae. This tree species is native to tropical Africa and can be propagated in various ways.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Terminalia phanerophlebia are the most common method of propagation. Collect seeds from the tree when the fruits are fully ripe and have turned brown. Break open the fruit and soak the seeds in water for 24-48 hours before planting. Plant the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep them in a warm, humid location until they germinate.
Cuttings Propagation
Terminalia phanerophlebia can also be propagated through cuttings. Take a hardwood cutting in late autumn or winter. The cutting should be approximately 30 cm long with a diameter of 2.5 cm. Strip the bark from the lower end of the cutting and apply rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a well-drained potting mix and keep it warm and moist until it develops roots.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method that can be used to propagate Terminalia phanerophlebia. Identify a healthy branch on the tree and make a cut in the bark of the branch. Apply rooting hormone to the cut and cover it with moist sphagnum moss. Wrap the moss with plastic wrap and secure it in place with tape. Roots should begin to grow after several weeks. Once the roots have developed, cut the branch from the mother tree and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm until the new plant has developed a strong root system.
Disease and Pest Management for Terminalia phanerophlebia Engl. & Diels Plant
Terminalia phanerophlebia Engl. & Diels, commonly known as the oak-leafed terminalia or the Tanzanian almond, is a tree species native to Tanzania, Africa, and is commonly grown as an ornamental or shade tree in subtropical and tropical areas. While this species is generally resistant to pests and diseases, there are a few issues to be aware of:
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that can cause small, dark brown spots on leaves, which can enlarge and merge to form large dead areas on the leaf surface. To manage leaf spot, it's important to remove and destroy any affected leaves, and to avoid overhead watering to reduce the spread of fungal spores. A fungicide application may also be necessary.
Anthracnose: Another fungal disease that can cause brown, dead spots on leaves and wilting of new shoots. Prevention measures for anthracnose are similar to those of leaf spot, with an emphasis on good sanitation and irrigation practices to reduce disease spread. A fungicide application may also be needed.
Common Pests
Mites: These tiny creatures can cause leaves to become stippled or distorted and can cause webbing on leaves and stems. To manage mites, remove heavily infested plant material and spray the remaining foliage with a miticide as directed.
Whiteflies: These small insects feed on the undersides of leaves and excrete a sticky substance known as honeydew that attracts sooty mold. Infested leaves may become yellow and foliage can eventually decline. Remove any heavily infested leaves and apply an appropriate insecticide.
Caterpillars: Terminalia phanerophlebia can also be infested by caterpillars that consume leaves and young shoots. The best way to prevent caterpillar damage is to regularly inspect the tree for any eggs or larvae and manually remove them if found. If an infestation is severe, an insecticide application may be necessary.
Overall, good plant health and cultural practices such as proper watering and fertilization can help prevent diseases and pest infestations. Early detection and a timely response are critical to the success of any disease or pest management program for Terminalia phanerophlebia.
