Overview
Turraea africana (Welw.) Cheek is a plant native to Africa, particularly in countries such as Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia. It belongs to the family Meliaceae, also known as the Mahogany family.
Common Names
There are several common names for Turraea africana, including "Gum Resin Tree," "Kali Gum Tree," "Mukorowakabayo," and "Donganzwa." These names vary from region to region, but they all refer to the same plant species.
General Appearance
The Turraea africana tree can grow up to 10 meters in height and has a wide, spreading crown. Its bark is grayish-brown and has a rough texture, while its leaves are simple, alternate, and glossy, with a dark green color. The plant produces small, white, or creamy-yellow flowers that are grouped in clusters, which can later turn into fruits that are small and circular. Turraea africana is a deciduous tree that sheds its leaves during the dry season.
Uses
Turraea africana has a variety of uses in African traditional medicine, where it is believed to have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. A gum resin extracted from the tree is used in the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery, and other gastrointestinal disorders. The plant is also a source of timber, from which durable wood can be obtained for construction and furniture-making. In some parts of Africa, the bark and roots of the plant are used to make a dye that is used in textiles. Additionally, the tree is a food source for several animals, including monkeys and birds.
Light Requirements
Turraea africana grows best in full sunlight. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce dense foliage and abundant flowers. Inadequate sunlight exposure may lead to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
Turraea africana grows well in warm conditions but can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 18°C and 27°C. It can withstand temperatures as low as 5°C, but prolonged exposure to temperatures below 10°C may cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Turraea africana should be well-drained and fertile. It thrives best in loamy or sandy soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The plant prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and can retain moisture, but it cannot tolerate water-logged conditions that may cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Turraea africana is a shrub or small tree that grows up to 4 meters tall. It is an easy plant to grow and is suitable for both outdoor and indoor cultivation. This plant prefers well-drained soils and moderate sunlight. It can be propagated through cuttings or seeds, but cuttings are more reliable.
Watering Needs
When caring for Turraea africana, it is essential to water it adequately. The plant requires moderate watering, and you should avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, you can water the plant once a week, and reduce watering in winter.
Fertilization
Turraea africana benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. You can apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks to help the plant develop strong roots and healthy foliage. Avoid applying fertilizer during the winter when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Regular pruning can help maintain the shape and size of this plant while promoting healthy growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches, and cut back the stems to maintain the desired shape. You can also pinch back the tips of young shoots to encourage bushier growth.
Propagation of Turraea africana (Welw.) Cheek
Turraea africana (Welw.) Cheek is propagated through both seeds and vegetative cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Turraea africana are collected from the mature fruits, which are usually oblong or ellipsoid in shape and up to 2.5 cm long. The seeds are then dried and stored until ready for sowing. Before sowing, the seed coat should be scratched using sandpaper or a file to encourage faster germination. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started in a nursery bed. The soil should be well-drained and fertile. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1-2 cm and spaced about 10-15 cm apart. Watering should be done regularly to ensure good germination.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Turraea africana is done using stem cuttings. The best time to take the cuttings is typically during the rainy season, which stimulates rooting. The cuttings should be about 15-20 cm long, with 2-3 nodes. The bottom part of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The soil should be kept moist until roots begin to develop.
Propagation of Turraea africana through cuttings is more reliable than seed propagation because the resulting plants are uniform and have the same characteristics as the parent plant.
Disease Management
Turraea africana is prone to a few diseases that can cause significant damage. One of the most common and destructive diseases is root rot, caused by fungi such as Phytophthora or Pythium. To manage this disease, it is essential to avoid over-watering and poorly drained soil. Instead, provide good drainage and improve soil aeration to promote root health and prevent the growth of fungi. The use of fungicides can also be beneficial in controlling root rot.
Another disease that can affect Turraea africana is leaf spot. This disease is caused by different species of fungi and is usually characterized by brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is essential to frequently prune and get rid of infected leaves to prevent the spread of the fungi. The use of fungicides can also be effective in controlling leaf spot.
Pest Management
Turraea africana can also be attacked by a few pests that can cause significant damage if not dealt with. One of the most common pests that affect the plant is the spider mite. These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing leaves to yellow and eventually die. To manage this pest, it is essential to regularly inspect the plant and get rid of any infested leaves. The use of insecticides can also be beneficial, but care should be taken not to damage beneficial insects that help control the pest.
Mealybugs and scale insects are other pests that can attack Turraea africana. These insects also suck sap from the plant and can cause significant damage. To manage these pests, it is essential to frequently inspect the plant and get rid of any infested leaves or branches. The use of insecticides can also be beneficial in controlling the pests.
In conclusion, proper disease and pest management practices are essential for promoting the health of Turraea africana. Regular inspection, good cultural practices, and the use of chemical control methods can go a long way in preventing and managing these problems.
