Trichilia roka Chiov. - Description
Trichilia roka Chiov. is a plant species belonging to the Meliaceae family. It is a deciduous tree that can reach a height of up to 15 meters. This tree species is also known as "Roka," and it is endemic to Tanzania.
Appearance
The tree has light-grey bark, and the crown is usually a rounded or umbrella shape. The leaves of Trichilia roka Chiov. are pinnate and can grow up to 30 cm long. The flowers of this plant species form a large panicle, and they are usually white with a yellow center. The fruit of the tree is a capsule with three valves, and it contains small black seeds.
Common Names
In addition to its scientific name, Trichilia roka Chiov. is known by several different common names in different languages and regions. In Swahili, it is called "Mkangazi," which means "a tree that provides shade." The tree is also known as "M'Kalamu" in Tanzania.
Uses
The bark, leaves, and roots of the Trichilia roka Chiov. tree have been used for various medicinal purposes by indigenous communities in Tanzania. It is used traditionally as a treatment for malaria, fever, and stomach ache. In addition to its medicinal uses, the tree provides shade and is used for timber, fuelwood, and carving. The fruit of the tree is also consumed by local communities for its edible properties.
In conclusion, Trichilia roka Chiov. is a tree species endemic to Tanzania known for its medicinal properties, timber, and edible fruit.
Light Requirements
Trichilia roka Chiov. thrives in bright light conditions. The plant prefers direct sunlight and should be placed in a spot where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. If grown indoors, this plant should be placed near a south-facing window to receive adequate light.
Temperature Requirements
Trichilia roka Chiov. is a tropical plant and thus requires warm temperatures to grow. Ideally, the plant should be kept in an environment where the temperature does not drop below 60°F (16°C) or exceed 85°F (29°C). The optimum temperature range for this plant is 70-80°F (21-27°C).
Soil Requirements
Trichilia roka Chiov. prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil to grow. The pH of the soil should range from 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should also be moist but not water-logged. The ideal soil mixture for this plant is a combination of potting soil and perlite or sand to improve drainage. The plant should be repotted every two years to ensure adequate nutrient supply.
Cultivation Methods
Trichilia roka Chiov is a tropical evergreen plant that requires a warm and humid climate for proper growth. It prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6-7 and partial to full sunlight exposure. The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. It is crucial to allow the soil to dry slightly between watering as excessive water can lead to root rot. During winter months, watering should be reduced but not stopped entirely.
Fertilization
Trichilia roka Chiov requires regular fertilization to thrive. It can be fertilized using organic matter such as compost or manure to enrich the soil. Alternatively, a slow-release fertilizer with a balanced NPK ratio can be used every three months during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the plant's shape and promote growth. It should be done during the dormant season to avoid interfering with flowering. Dead or diseased branches and leaves should be removed promptly. Regular pruning of the plant's leading shoots will help create a bushy, compact shape, making it more aesthetically pleasing.
Propagation of Trichilia roka Chiov.
Trichilia roka Chiov. is a dioecious tree that belongs to the Meliaceae family. It is a useful plant for agroforestry systems and has various traditional medicinal properties. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds of Trichilia roka Chiov. can be germinated under shade or direct sunlight, depending on the climatic conditions. The seeds generally take around 30-90 days to germinate, and the success rate is low, which makes seed propagation challenging. Stratification of seeds at low temperature can increase the germination rate.
Cuttings
The plant can be propagated through both softwood and hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken from the current year's growth during the rainy season, while hardwood cuttings are from the previous year's growth taken during the dormant season. Cuttings are usually treated with rooting hormones and kept under high humidity and low light conditions. The rooting percentage depends on the genotype and the cutting length.
Air layering
Air layering can also be utilized to propagate Trichilia roka Chiov. by inducing root formation on the stem. This method is efficient for plants that have a low success rate for other propagation methods. A ring of bark is removed from the stem and kept open with moss and plastic wrap. Roots emerge from the exposed stem area, and the rooted stem can be detached and planted.
Budding and grafting
Budding and grafting methods can be utilized to propagate Trichilia roka Chiov. onto rootstocks of other Meliaceae species. This method is used mainly to multiply elite clones of the plant. The success rate depends on the compatibility of the plant and the rootstock.
Propagation of Trichilia roka Chiov. is crucial to establish them in agroforestry systems and develop a sustainable production system. The choice of propagation method depends on the cost, propagation efficiency, and genetic diversity required.
Disease and Pest Management for Trichilia roka Chiov.
Trichilia roka Chiov. is generally a hardy plant that can resist most diseases and pests. However, in certain conditions, it may be susceptible to infestation and infections. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect Trichilia roka Chiov. and the best ways to manage them.
Pests
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap out of plant tissue, causing the leaves to yellow and wilt. To manage Aphids on Trichilia roka Chiov., spray the foliage with insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings to control aphid populations.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause leaves to yellow and dry out. Spray the leaves of the affected plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites' growth.
Scale Insects: Spread a mixture of 50% alcohol and 50% water over the insects' affected areas using a cotton swab. You can repeat this process until the scales drop off of the plant.
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf Spots are caused by fungi that form dark spots on the leaves of the plant, which may cause yellowing and eventual death of the plant. To manage leaf spot, remove affected leaves and dispose of them. Avoid overhead watering and water the plant from below to keep the leaves dry.
Root Rot: Root Rot is a fungal disease caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To avoid this disease, do not overwater the plant. Ensure that the plant grows in porous soil to allow excess moisture to drain easily. Remove the affected plant from the soil, discard it and avoid using it in future planting.
Powdery Mildew: This disease produces a powdery white or gray coating on the plant, causing the leaves to shrivel and yellow. To manage powdery mildew on Trichilia roka Chiov., apply a fungicide or make a baking soda solution (1 tablespoon of baking soda in a gallon of water plus a few drops of dish soap) and spray the foliage every seven days until the symptoms subside.
By taking the appropriate disease and pest management measures, you can maintain a healthy Trichilia roka Chiov. plant, retaining its vibrant coloring and green leaves throughout the year.
