Overview
Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. var. angolensis Hiern belongs to the Combretaceae family. Known for its medicinal properties, this plant has significant value in traditional African medicine
General Appearance
Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. var. angolensis Hiern is a tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. Its bark is rough, grayish-brown in color and unevenly fissured. The leaves are simple, alternate, and can reach up to 12 cm long and 5 cm wide. It produces pale yellow flowers from September to November with a strong vanilla-like scent. The fruit is a small drupe, up to 2 cm long, with a brown, woody coat that surrounds a single seed inside.
Origin
This plant is native to Southern Africa, specifically found in areas with a dry climate, including Botswana, South Africa, and Namibia.
Common Names
Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. var. angolensis Hiern has several common names, including silver terminalia, sehlohlong, mokobulwane, and muunga.
Uses
Various parts of Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. var. angolensis Hiern, such as the leaves, roots, and bark, have been used in traditional African medicine. These parts have been used to treat ailments such as diarrhea, coughs, colds, and fever. The plant is also used in the treatment of diabetes and hypertension. Additionally, the leaves have been used to make a tea-like infusion, which is believed to have a relaxing effect on the mind and body.
Typical Growth Conditions for Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. var. angolensis Hiern
Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. var. angolensis Hiern, commonly known as the Angola silver terminalia, is a species of tree that is native to Angola, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. It thrives in a wide range of habitats, from woodlands to savannas, and can grow up to 15 meters tall.
Light Requirements
Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. var. angolensis Hiern requires full sunlight to grow and develop properly. It cannot grow well in the shade, and therefore requires an open environment to thrive. The plant should be positioned in a spot that receives direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours per day.
Temperature Requirements
Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. var. angolensis Hiern can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from as low as -8°C to as high as 40°C. However, it grows best in regions with average annual temperatures between 10 and 30°C, with an average temperature of around 20°C.
Soil Requirements
The Angola silver terminalia can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. The soil should be neutral to slightly acidic, with a pH level ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. Additionally, the plant can tolerate sandy, loamy or clay soils, but sandy soils are preferred. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during its first few years of growth.
Cultivation Methods
Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. var. angolensis Hiern grows well in warm, sunny environments with well-draining soil. They can tolerate a wide range of soil types but prefer slightly acidic to neutral soils. The plant is propagated by seed or stem cuttings, with cuttings being the preferred method as it ensures genetic uniformity.
Watering Needs
During the growth phase, frequent watering is necessary to maintain soil moisture. Once established, Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. var. angolensis Hiern is relatively drought resistant and can tolerate short periods of dryness.
Fertilization
The plant benefits from regular fertilization, especially nitrogen-based fertilizers, during the active growth phase. Young plants require more frequent fertilization than mature ones. A slow-release fertilizer applied every six months, in spring and autumn, is sufficient for mature plants.
Pruning
Pruning should be done to remove dead, diseased, or overcrowded branches. It is best to prune during the dormant season, just before the plant starts to grow in early spring, to avoid damaging new growth. Light trimming can be done throughout the year to promote dense foliage and encourage lateral branching.
Propagation of Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. var. angolensis Hiern
Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. var. angolensis Hiern can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual propagation
The seeds of Terminalia sericea can be collected and sown during the rainy season. The seeds can be sown directly in well-prepared soil or in seedling trays filled with soil mix. It is recommended to soak the seeds in water for 24 hours prior to sowing to soften the hard seed coat and improve germination rates. Seeds should be sown to a depth of 1-2 cm and covered with soil. For best results, keep the soil moist and provide partial shade until the seedlings are established. Germination can take up to 4 weeks.
Asexual propagation
Terminalia sericea can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Select healthy stems of about 15-20 cm in length and remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder and plant them in well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a shaded area until they establish roots, which can take about 4-6 weeks. Once the cuttings have developed roots, they can be transplanted to their final location.
Another method of asexual propagation is through layering. This involves bending a low, flexible stem to the ground and covering it with soil, leaving the tip exposed. Roots will form along the stem where it is in contact with the soil. Once roots have developed, the new plant can be cut from the mother plant and transplanted elsewhere.
Disease and Pest Management for Terminalia Sericea Burch. Ex DC. var. Angolensis Hiern
Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. var. angolensis Hiern, commonly known as Silver Terminalia, is a beautiful small to medium-sized tree native to Sub-Saharan Africa. While the tree is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, it can still be affected by several factors that can weaken its growth and cause damage to its leaves and branches. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Silver Terminalia and some ways to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brownish-black, circular or irregular spots on leaves. The disease spreads quickly in wet or humid conditions, which create the ideal environment for fungal growth. To manage this disease, it is essential to prune any infected leaves or branches immediately. Applying fungicides can also help to control the spread of the disease.
Root rot: Root rot is a disease caused by a fungus that thrives in waterlogged soils. Symptoms of this disease include slow growth, wilting, and yellowing of leaves. To prevent root rot, plant your Silver Terminalia in well-draining soils and avoid overwatering. If you notice any signs of root rot, treat the affected plant with a fungicide and improve soil drainage.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are common pests that attack the leaves of Silver Terminalia, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. These pests thrive in hot and dry conditions. To manage spider mites, spray the leaves with water to remove the pests. You can also apply insecticides to control their population.
Scale insects: Scale insects are sap-sucking insects that attach themselves to the leaves and branches of the plant. They secrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and causes yellowing and distortion of leaves. To manage scale insects, remove them manually using a soft brush. You can also apply insecticides to control their population.
By following these tips, you can keep your Silver Terminalia healthy and pest-free all year round.
