Origin and Common Names
Terminalia sessilifolia R.E.Fr., commonly known as African almond or ?Azuza?, is a tropical tree species from the family Combretaceae. Terminalia sessilifolia is native to West and Central Africa, specifically in countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Angola, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Appearance
Terminalia sessilifolia is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to a height of 25-30 meters. The tree is characterized by its straight trunk, which can reach a diameter of up to 1 meter, and its broad and rounded crown. The leaves of Terminalia sessilifolia are simple, alternate, and ovate, with a length of 5-17 cm and a width of 4-10 cm.
The tree produces small white or greenish flowers that are borne in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruits of Terminalia sessilifolia are drupes that are ovoid in shape, about 4-6 cm long and 3-4 cm wide. The drupes have a hard shell and contain one or two seeds. The seeds are flat, smooth, and brown in color.
Uses
The African almond tree has many uses. Its fruits and leaves are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach ache. The bark of the Terminalia sessilifolia tree is used to make a decoction, which is used as a mouthwash to treat toothaches and mouth ulcers. The trees' roots and stem bark are used to treat gonorrhea. The leaves of the tree can also be used as a treatment for asthma and coughs.
In addition to its medicinal properties, the wood of Terminalia sessilifolia is hard and durable and is used in furniture making, flooring, and construction. The tree’s fruits are also consumed by humans and animals as food. The leaves and fruits of the tree are also used for making dyes and tannins.
The African almond tree has cultural significance as well. In some African cultures, the tree is believed to have spiritual powers and is used in some religious rituals.
Typical Growth Conditions of Terminalia Sessilifolia R.E.Fr.
Terminalia sessilifolia R.E.Fr. is a tree species that is widely distributed across Central and West Africa. This tree is usually found in savannah or seasonal woodland, and can grow up to 40 meters tall. Understanding the growth conditions of this species is key to successfully cultivating it.
Light Requirements
Terminalia sessilifolia R.E.Fr. is a species that grows best in direct sunlight. The tree requires at least six hours of direct sunlight per day for optimal growth and development. Partial shade, such as that provided by nearby tall trees, may hinder the growth of Terminalia sessilifolia R.E.Fr.
Temperature Requirements
The tree species prefers warm tropical climates. The optimal temperature range for Terminalia sessilifolia R.E.Fr. growth is between 24°C and 28°C. This species is not tolerant of frost, and can die if exposed to freezing temperatures for an extended period.
Soil Requirements
Terminalia sessilifolia R.E.Fr. grows well in a wide range of soils, as long as they are well-drained. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils, with pH values ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. However, this species prefers soils that are high in organic matter, and sandy or loamy soils are ideal. The tree can grow in soils with low fertility, but it performs best in soils that are rich in nutrients.
Cultivation Methods
The Terminalia sessilifolia R.E.Fr. plant prefers well-draining soil and a sunny location. It is best to cultivate this plant in areas that have a tropical climate. The plant should be propagated by seed. Seedlings should be placed in a pot or container that is at least 10 inches wide and deep, allowing enough space for the roots to grow.
Watering Needs
The Terminalia sessilifolia R.E.Fr. plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. It is important not to overwater the plant as it can cause fungal diseases to develop. The best approach for watering is to water deeply every 10-14 days. It is important to check the soil moisture levels before watering to ensure that the soil isn't too wet or too dry.
Fertilization
The Terminalia sessilifolia R.E.Fr. plant prefers a balanced organic fertilizer. Fertilization should be done once every 2-3 months during the growing season. Too much fertilizer can cause damage to the roots, so it is important to follow the instructions on the label. The plant's growth will be stunted if it does not receive adequate nutrients.
Pruning
To promote healthy growth and shape the plant, pruning is necessary. It is best to prune the plant during the dormant period, which is usually in the winter or early spring. Remove any dead or diseased branches using a pair of sterilized pruning shears. Branches growing towards the center of the plant should also be removed to improve the plant's air circulation. The plant should be hand-pruned to maintain its shape, and avoid using any electric clippers that can cause damage to the stem and bark.
Propagation of Terminalia sessilifolia R.E.Fr.
Terminalia sessilifolia R.E.Fr. is a deciduous tree that is highly valued in African traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. The propagation of this plant is essential for its conservation and sustainable utilization. The plant can be propagated both sexually and asexually.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation of Terminalia sessilifolia R.E.Fr. can be achieved by seed. The seeds are best collected from mature fruits that have turned brown or black, indicating full maturity. The seeds should be treated with a fungicide to prevent fungal infection and then sown in a nursery or directly in the field.
The soil should be moist, well-drained, and fertile. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1-2 cm and covered lightly with soil. Germination can take up to three weeks, and seedlings should be protected from direct sunlight and strong winds.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of Terminalia sessilifolia R.E.Fr. can be achieved by vegetative means such as cuttings and air-layering. This method of propagation is particularly useful when trying to propagate elite clones with desirable traits.
Cuttings are taken from terminal shoots of healthy, mature trees. The cuttings should be about 30 cm long, and all leaves except for the top two should be removed. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained, moist, and fertile soil. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly until they establish roots.
Air-layering is another method of asexual propagation. This method involves wounding a branch of the tree and covering the wound with a rooting hormone and moist sphagnum moss. The wound is then wrapped in plastic to maintain moisture and prevent drying out. After a few weeks, roots will develop at the wound, and the newly formed plant can be separated from the parent tree and planted in a well-drained, fertile soil.
Disease Management for Terminalia Sessilifolia R.E.Fr. Plant
Terminalia Sessilifolia R.E.Fr., also known as the African Cherry, is a tropical hardwood tree that is mostly found in the rainforest zone of Africa. The tree is susceptible to different diseases, mostly caused by bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Bacterial wilt
- Leaf spots
- Canker
- Root rot
- Powdery mildew
To manage these diseases, here are some measures that can be taken:
- Practicing good sanitation and hygiene in the garden, such as removing diseased parts and debris, can prevent further spread of the diseases.
- Applying fungicides and bactericides can help control the spread of diseases.
- Planting disease-resistant seedlings can also help mitigate the impact of diseases.
Pest Management for Terminalia Sessilifolia R.E.Fr. Plant
Aside from diseases, Terminalia Sessilifolia R.E.Fr. is also susceptible to different kinds of pests, which can damage the plant's leaves, fruits, and even the trunk. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant:
- Mealybugs
- Thrips
- Mites
- Borers
- Ants and termites
To manage these pests, the following measures can be taken:
- Using insecticides, miticides, and other pesticides can help control pests' spread and damage to the plant.
- Quarantining newly acquired plants before introduction to the garden can prevent the introduction of pests.
- Encouraging the presence of natural predators like birds, predatory insects, and mites can also help reduce pest populations.
