Overview
Terminalia ruspolii Engl. & Diels var. macroptera Pamp. is a species of flowering plant in the family Combretaceae. It is a tall tree that grows up to 30 meters in height and is native to East Africa, specifically Ethiopia and Eritrea.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including Ethiopian Almond, Hamburger tree, and Ruspoli's Terminalia.
Uses
The bark of the Terminalia ruspolii tree is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including respiratory infections, diarrhea, and stomach pains. The leaves and fruits of the plant are also used for their medicinal properties.
In Ethiopia, the tree is highly valued for its timber, which is used for furniture and construction. The wood is durable, resistant to termites and decay, and has a beautiful grain.
Appearance
The Terminalia ruspolii tree has a dense crown of leaves that grows up to 15 meters in diameter. The leaves are dark green, leathery, and oval-shaped. The tree produces small, greenish-white flowers that develop into fruit pods. The pods are brown and woody, with a diameter of 2-3 centimeters and contain a single seed.
The bark of the tree is smooth, grayish-brown, and peels off in thin strips. The trunk is straight and can grow up to one meter in diameter.
Typical Growth Conditions for Terminalia ruspolii Engl. & Diels var. macroptera Pamp.
Terminalia ruspolii Engl. & Diels var. macroptera Pamp. is a small tree or large shrub native to Ethiopia, specifically found in the Bale Mountains and Arsi Zones. It is also commonly known as the Ethiopian almond tree due to its edible fruit. The plant is sensitive to extreme temperatures and requires specific growth conditions to thrive.
Light Requirements
Terminalia ruspolii var. macroptera Pamp. requires full sunlight to grow healthily. The plant cannot withstand shade as it needs ample light for proper photosynthesis. It is best to plant the tree in an area that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in a range of temperatures, but prefers a climate that is warm and humid. The temperature range should be between 55-70°F (13-21°C), and the plant cannot tolerate frost. It is essential to keep the plant warm during the winter season to maintain its productivity.
Soil Requirements
Terminalia ruspolii var. macroptera Pamp. needs well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. The pH of the soil should be between 6.0-7.5. The plant requires good aeration and can adapt to different soil types, including loamy, sandy, or clay soil. The soil should be regularly fertilized with organic matter to enhance growth and productivity.
Overall, the plant requires full sunlight, a mild climate, and well-drained soil to thrive. Ensuring these growth conditions are met will help the plant grow healthy and fruitful.
Cultivation Methods
Terminalia ruspolii Engl. & Diels var. macroptera Pamp. thrives in well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Plant it in an area with bright, indirect sunlight and away from cold drafts. It can also tolerate partial shade, but it may not grow as vigorously. You can propagate it through seeds or stem cuttings.
Watering Needs
Water your Terminalia ruspolii plant regularly but avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot. Allow the top one inch of soil to dry out between watering sessions to prevent excess moisture. Also, in the winter, reduce watering to avoid waterlogging the roots.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every four weeks during the growing season to keep your Terminalia ruspolii leaves lush and healthy. Do not fertilize during the winter months when it's dormant.
Pruning
To keep your Terminalia ruspolii plant looking attractive and to manage its size, you can prune it once in a while. Remove diseased, dead, or yellowing leaves as soon as possible, as they can harbor pests and diseases. Also, periodically remove the leggy stems or those that cross over to avoid crowding or tangling.
Propagation of Terminalia ruspolii Engl. & Diels var. macroptera Pamp.
Terminalia ruspolii Engl. & Diels var. macroptera Pamp. can be propagated through different methods which include:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Terminalia ruspolii can be collected from mature trees during the fruiting season. The seeds should be collected from healthy fruits and should be cleaned. Seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a shaded area. Germination usually takes around 2-3 weeks. After germination, seedlings should be watered regularly and kept in a partially shaded area until they are mature enough to be transplanted.
Cuttings propagation
Terminalia ruspolii can also be propagated from stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from mature trees during the growing season. The cuttings should be 15-20 cm long and have at least two nodes. The leaves on the lower node should be removed to avoid transpiration of water from the stem. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormones and placed in well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist and the cuttings should be kept in a partially shaded area. After a few weeks, the cuttings will develop roots and can be transplanted to individual pots.
Air-layering propagation
Air-layering is another method that can be used for propagating Terminalia ruspolii. This method involves cutting a small section of bark off a mature stem and adding rooting hormone to the exposed area. The area is then covered with damp moss or peat and wrapped with plastic. Roots will emerge from the cut area in a few weeks. Once the roots are well-developed, the stem can be cut off and planted in well-draining soil mix.
Disease Management for Terminalia ruspolii Engl. & Diels var. macroptera Pamp.
Terminalia ruspolii Engl. & Diels var. macroptera Pamp. is generally a hardy plant with low susceptibility to most diseases. However, certain diseases can still occur, especially if the plant is stressed or lacks proper care.
The most common disease that affects Terminalia ruspolii is leaf spot caused by fungi. Symptoms of leaf spot include circular or oval-shaped lesions on the leaves, which can range from yellow to brown to black in color. The disease can be managed by ensuring good air circulation around the plant, avoiding overhead watering, and removing any infected leaves.
Another disease that can affect Terminalia ruspolii is powdery mildew. This disease is characterized by white powdery patches on the leaves and stems. Powdery mildew can be managed by spraying the plant with a fungicide or a homemade mixture of baking soda and water.
Pest Management for Terminalia ruspolii Engl. & Diels var. macroptera Pamp.
Terminalia ruspolii is also generally resistant to most pests, but some pests can still cause damage to the plant.
One of the most common pests that can affect Terminalia ruspolii is scale insects. These insects can cause yellowing of leaves and distortion of growth. The pests can be managed by removing them manually or by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap.
Another pest that can affect Terminalia ruspolii is spider mites. These pests can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves, and they thrive in dry, dusty conditions. Spider mites can be managed by increasing humidity around the plant and spraying it with water to wash them off. In severe infestations, an insecticide may be necessary.
Regular inspection of the plant for any signs of disease or pest infestation is crucial for maintaining the health and beauty of Terminalia ruspolii. Preventative measures like good air circulation, proper watering, and adequate sunlight can go a long way in warding off most diseases and pests.
