Origin
The Trochomeria macrocarpa (Sond.) Hook.f. subsp. macrocarpa, commonly known as the sausage tree, is indigenous to southern and eastern Africa. It is found as far north as Sudan and as south as Zimbabwe. The plant is well adapted to hot and dry climates and is commonly found in arid savannas, woodlands, and riverbanks.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the sausage tree due to its unique fruit which resembles a large sausage or cucumber. It is also referred to as kigeli-keia, mubuyu, musuzi, mbuyu, and umfongothi in different African countries.
Uses
Trochomeria macrocarpa has several medicinal and cultural uses. The fruit, bark, and leaves of the plant have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and are used to treat various conditions such as malaria, tuberculosis, and respiratory infections. The bark of the tree is also used to make rope, while the fruit pulp is eaten by both humans and animals. The plant is considered sacred in some African cultures and is used in rituals and ceremonies.
General Appearance
Trochomeria macrocarpa is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. The tree has a broad, spreading canopy with a straight, cylindrical trunk that can reach a diameter of up to 2 meters. The leaves are dark green and shiny with a leathery texture. The plant produces large, pendulous, sausage-shaped fruits that can be up to 1 meter long and weigh up to 10 kilograms. The fruits have a hard, woody shell that encloses a soft, fibrous pulp containing numerous seeds. The plant has small, inconspicuous flowers that bloom from November to January.
Growth Conditions for Trochomeria macrocarpa (Sond.) Hook.f. subsp. macrocarpa
Trochomeria macrocarpa (Sond.) Hook.f. subsp. macrocarpa is a South African flowering plant that typically grows in subtropical forests, along the margins of streams and riverbanks.
Light Requirements
Trochomeria macrocarpa (Sond.) Hook.f. subsp. macrocarpa thrives in shaded environments that receive filtered light. Direct sunlight is harmful to this plant and causes leaf burn. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it under shade structures or other trees.
Temperature Requirements
Trochomeria macrocarpa (Sond.) Hook.f. subsp. macrocarpa prefers a warm climate with temperatures between 20°C and 28°C. It can tolerate temperatures below 4°C but does not thrive in freezing conditions. In frost-prone areas, it is essential to plant in a protected spot to prevent damage to the leaves and stem.
Soil Requirements
Trochomeria macrocarpa (Sond.) Hook.f. subsp. macrocarpa grows best in well-drained soils rich in organic matter. Sandy loam soils with a pH range of 4.5 to 7.0 are perfect for its growth. This plant can tolerate various soil types, including loam, clay, or sand, and prefers regular watering. However, it must be ensured that the soil does not get waterlogged since it can cause significant damage to the roots and lead to the death of the plant.
Cultivation methods for Trochomeria macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa
Trochomeria macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa is a plant that requires a warm and humid environment. It needs to be grown in soil that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. The plant should be placed in a spot that receives partial sun or dappled shade. The plant prefers a slightly acidic soil pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. It is recommended to grow Trochomeria macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa in a large container or raised bed due to its deep root system.
Watering needs for Trochomeria macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa
Trochomeria macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa requires regular watering to maintain its foliage and promote healthy growth. The plant should be watered once or twice a week depending on the season and local climate. During the dry season, the plant will require more frequent watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Trochomeria macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa does not tolerate drought very well and may wilt if it does not receive enough water.
Fertilization for Trochomeria macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa
Trochomeria macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa requires regular fertilization to maintain its health and promote flowering. The plant should be fertilized every 2-3 months with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. This will provide the plant with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and blooming. It is recommended to apply the fertilizer during the growing season and avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.
Pruning Trochomeria macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa
Trochomeria macrocarpa subsp. macrocarpa requires minimal pruning. Dead wood and diseased or damaged branches should be removed to maintain the plant's health. The plant can be shaped or trained to grow in a particular direction by selectively pruning branches. Pruning should be done during the dormant season to avoid damaging the plant while it is actively growing and flowering.
Propagation of Trochomeria macrocarpa Subsp. Macrocarpa
Trochomeria macrocarpa Subsp. Macrocarpa is commonly propagated through stem cuttings and seed germination. Some important information about these methods are discussed below.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are a popular method of propagating Trochomeria macrocarpa plants because they are easy to root and establish. Here are the steps for successful propagation through stem cuttings:
- Choose a healthy stem that is at least 3 inches long and has several nodes.
- Cut the stem just below a node using a sterilized sharp knife or scissors.
- Remove the leaves from the bottom inch of the stem.
- Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder.
- Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix.
- Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a warm, bright location.
- Roots will form in 3-4 weeks and the cutting can be transplanted into a larger container or outdoors.
Propagation by Seed Germination
Seed germination is another method of propagating Trochomeria macrocarpa plants. However, seed germination can be a bit challenging because the seeds have a hard outer coating that needs to be scarified before sowing. Here are the steps for successful propagation through seed germination:
- Collect ripe fruits from the plant and soak them in warm water for several hours.
- Cut open the fruit and collect the seeds.
- Scarify the seeds by rubbing them against sandpaper or soaking them in a solution of sulfuric acid for a few minutes.
- Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and cover with a thin layer of soil.
- Place the container in a warm, bright location and keep the soil moist.
- Seeds will germinate in 2-4 weeks and can be transplanted into larger containers or outdoors.
Disease and Pest Management for Trochomeria macrocarpa (Sond.) Hook.f. subsp. macrocarpa
Trochomeria macrocarpa is a hardy plant but not immune to diseases and pests. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is caused by fungal pathogens that affect the leaves, causing them to develop small, dark spots. It is commonly seen in humid conditions and can be controlled with fungicides. Practice crop rotation and avoid overcrowding to prevent the spread of leaf spot.
2. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems, leaving a white powdery substance. It is prevalent in cool and humid conditions and can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation. Use fungicides to manage an existing infection.
3. Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, causing yellow to reddish-brown pustules to develop. It is seen in humid conditions and can be managed using copper-based fungicides.
Pests
1. Thrips: Thrips are small, winged insects that feed on the leaves, flowers, and buds' tissues. They cause discoloration and deformities in the affected parts. The use of predatory insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can be helpful in managing thrips infestation.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are white, cotton-like insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves, causing yellowing and distorted growth of the plant. They can be controlled by washing the plant with a mixture of water and soap. Use insecticidal soap to treat mealybug infestation.
3. Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, waxy insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves, causing yellowing and dropping of leaves. They can be managed by using horticultural oil sprays or insecticidal soap.
By regularly monitoring the plant and taking immediate action once a disease or pest problem is detected, you can prevent severe damage to your Trochomeria macrocarpa plant.
