Origin
Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f. is a plant species that originates from eastern and southern Africa. It is commonly found in Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, and Malawi.
Common Names
The plant goes by several common names, including Rhodesian stink bush, poison bush, and Tswanasanyane (a name commonly used in Southern Africa).
Uses
Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f. has several traditional medicinal uses in Africa. Different parts of the plant are used to treat various ailments such as stomach ache, diarrhea, and skin infections. However, the plant is considered toxic and should be used with caution.
The plant is also known for its insecticidal properties, and its dried leaves and stems have been used to protect stored grains from insect damage.
Additionally, the plant has potential for use in the pharmaceutical industry due to its high content of essential oils and flavonoids.
General Appearance
Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f. is a shrub or small tree that grows up to 3 meters in height. It has an aromatic smell that is described as pungent and unpleasant. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and glossy green in color. The plant produces clusters of small, yellowish-white flowers, followed by spherical fruits that are covered in prickly hairs.
The stems and leaves of the plant contain a milky sap that is toxic and can cause skin irritation and blistering when in contact with the skin.
Light Requirements
Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f. requires full sunlight exposure to grow properly. It cannot tolerate shade or partial shade and prefer open areas to grow.
Soil Requirements
The plant can tolerate various soil types, including rocky, sandy, and clayey soils. However, it thrives well in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.5 to 8.0. The presence of organic matter is essential for its growth, and adding compost or manure to the soil before planting can improve the soil conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f. is an adaptable plant and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It can thrive in hot and dry regions, but it will not tolerate frost or extremely cold temperatures. For optimal growth, it is essential to maintain a temperature range of around 20-30°C.
Water Requirements
The plant has low to moderate water needs and can tolerate drought conditions. It is essential to water it occasionally, especially during the early stages of growth, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
Cultivation of Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f.
Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f. is a shrub that is best suited for cultivation in dry, arid regions. The plant thrives in full sunlight and can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to loamy soils. It is however important to ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot.
When planting Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f., space the plants at least 3 feet apart to allow enough room for growth. Dig a hole that is two times wider than the root ball and plant the shrub at the same depth as it was in its original container. Water the plant well after planting to help it establish itself in its new environment.
Watering Needs of Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f.
Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f. is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive on minimal irrigation. It is important to water the plant sparingly and only when the soil is completely dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Drip irrigation is recommended for Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f. as it helps to reduce water waste and ensures that water is delivered directly to the root zone. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering to once every two weeks during the dormant season.
Fertilization of Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f.
Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f. is a low maintenance plant that does not require a lot of fertilizer. In fact, excessive fertilization can be detrimental to the health of this plant.
Use a slow-release fertilizer that is rich in phosphorus and potassium to encourage root development and enhance the plant's resistance to disease. Apply the fertilizer once a year at the beginning of the growing season, following the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
Pruning Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f.
Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f. requires minimum pruning to maintain its natural shape. Prune the plant lightly in the early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. Light pruning also helps to encourage new growth and rejuvenate the plant.
It is important to wear gloves and protective clothing when pruning Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f. as the plant contains toxins that can cause skin irritations and other health problems.
Propagation of Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f.
Thamnosma africana Engl. var. rhodesica Baker f. is propagated through seeds and cuttings. The propagation method chosen depends on the availability of the propagules, time of the year and the desired number of plants.
Propagation through seeds
Seeds are collected from mature fruits that have turned brown. The seeds should be clean, dry and free from pests and diseases. Seed germination can be improved by soaking the seeds in cold water for 24 hours before planting.
The seeds are sown in containers filled with a well-draining medium of equal parts of loam, sand, and vermiculite or perlite. The seeds should be covered lightly with the medium and kept moist until germination. Germination of T. africana var. rhodesica seeds is usually erratic, and it may take up to six weeks for the seedlings to emerge.
After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the field. The seedlings should be protected from direct sunlight and strong winds until they are established.
Propagation through cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from mature stems or branches of T. africana var. rhodesica, preferably from the previous season's growth. The cuttings should be about 7-10 cm long and should have at least 2-3 nodes. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed.
The cutting is dipped in rooting hormone, and the base is planted in a well-draining rooting medium, such as perlite or sand. The cutting should be watered sparingly until it starts producing roots, which usually takes 4-6 weeks. After rooting, the cutting can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the field.
Cuttings can also be planted directly in the field, but this method has a lower success rate than planting in containers.
Disease Management
Thamnosma africana var. rhodesica Baker f. is susceptible to various diseases that can cause damage to the plant. Common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens which make spots on the plant leaves. It can be managed by removing infected leaves and applying a fungicide.
- Rust: Rust can attack leaves, stems, and buds. It can be controlled by pruning the affected parts and applying a fungicide.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne pathogens and can cause the roots to decay. It can be managed by improving soil drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Pest Management
Thamnosma africana var. rhodesica Baker f. is also susceptible to pests that can cause damage. Common pests that affect this plant include:
- Aphids: They suck plant sap and can cause curled leaves, stunted growth, and yellowing. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause the plant to appear stippled and can cause leaves to turn yellow. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or applying insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can chew through leaves and cause damage to the plant. They can be controlled by handpicking them off the plant or applying a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.
Regular monitoring of the plant and prompt action to address any disease or pest issues is essential to the healthy growth and development of Thamnosma africana var. rhodesica Baker f.
