Overview
Turraea cornucopia Styles & F.White is a shrub that belongs to the Meliaceae family. It is native to Tanzania and Kenya and is found growing in dry woodland and forest areas.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Turraea, African turraea, turraea tree or cornucopia tree.
Uses
Turraea cornucopia is a medicinal plant used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments such as stomach pains, malaria, and diarrhea. The bark is commonly used to make poultices for wounds and skin infections. The leaves are used to treat snake bites and toothache. The roots and seeds are also utilized for their medicinal properties.
Moreover, the plant's hard and durable wood is used for various purposes such as construction, tool handles, and furniture.
Appearance
The Turraea cornucopia tree grows up to 12 meters in height and has a rounded crown. The leaves are alternate and have a lanceolate shape, measuring up to 20cm long and 9 cm wide. The flowers are small and yellow and form clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a brown, globose berry that is up to 2 cm in diameter.
The plant has a unique and distinctive scent, which is often described as spicy or pungent.
Light Requirements
Turraea cornucopia requires high levels of sunlight exposure for optimal growth. This plant thrives in full sun and requires a minimum of six hours of sunlight per day. Insufficient light exposure may cause stunted growth or a lack of flowering. It is best to place the plant in a location that receives direct sunlight during the day.
Temperature Requirements
Turraea cornucopia is a tropical plant and prefers warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 18 to 36 Celsius (65-96 Fahrenheit). Temperatures below 10 Celsius (50 Fahrenheit) can be lethal to the plant. Freezing temperatures should be avoided at all costs as they can cause damage to the plant's tissues. The plant needs to be protected from any cold drafts or frost, which can cause damage to the leaves and flowers.
Soil Requirements
The soil requirements of Turraea cornucopia are specific. It needs well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range between 5.5 to 6.5. A pH level beyond this range may cause the plant to struggle with nutrient absorption. Good drainage is critical, as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot and other diseases. The ideal soil type for Turraea cornucopia is a mix of sand, peat moss, and loamy soil. The plant also requires regular fertilization for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
The Turraea cornucopia is a tropical plant that requires a warm and moist climate to grow well. Therefore, it thrives best in regions with high humidity and rainfall. It prefers well-drained soils with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5, rich in organic matter and nutrients.
When planting Turraea cornucopia, dig a hole that's double the size of the root ball and loosen the soil surrounding it. Then place the plant in the hole and cover it with soil, firming gently to secure the plant. Water thoroughly to encourage rooting.
Watering Needs
The Turraea cornucopia should be watered regularly, especially during the first growing season, to establish root systems. The plant requires well-drained soil that retains some moisture but not too much to avoid root rot. Water the plant deeply at least once a week, ensuring that the top six inches of soil remains moist.
However, you need to ensure that you're not over-watering the plant because this can lead to waterlogged soil, which can result in root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The Turraea cornucopia benefits from regular fertilization to maintain its lush, green foliage and promote healthy growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil around the plant during the growing season, at least once a month.
It's worth noting that too much fertilizer can also harm the plant, so follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. You can also supplement with ammonium sulfate, which helps to maintain the plant's green leaves.
Pruning
Pruning the Turraea cornucopia is not necessary unless you want to control its height and spread or remove any dead or diseased branches. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring when the plant is still dormant.
You can also shape the plant to the desired height and form by cutting it back to a certain level. However, it's recommended to avoid pruning during the growing season, as this can affect the plant's growth and flowering.
Propagation of Turraea cornucopia Styles & F.White
Turraea cornucopia Styles & F.White can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
This method involves sowing seeds either in seed trays or directly in the ground. Seeds must be fresh and ripe. After sowing, cover them lightly with soil and keep them moist. They must be kept in a warm, humid place to germinate. Germination usually takes 3-4 weeks. Once they have sprouted, the seedlings must be protected from direct sunlight and harsh weather conditions until they have matured enough to be transplanted.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation involves cutting pieces from the mature plants and allowing them to root and grow into new individuals. This can be done using stem cuttings or leaf cuttings. Stem cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth, and leaf cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature leaves. Once cut, the stems or leaves must be treated with a rooting hormone and planted into a moist, well-draining soil mix. They must be kept in a shady, warm place and misted regularly until they have rooted and begun to grow on their own. This method usually takes several weeks to a month to achieve successful rooting.
Disease Management
Turraea cornucopia is susceptible to various diseases that can wreak havoc on plant health, yield, and quality. Below are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant, along with suggested management practices.
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes lesions on leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits. The lesions are usually sunken with dark borders. They may merge and become large, leading to defoliation, stunting, and yield loss. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant debris. Also, avoid overhead watering and overcrowding plants to reduce humidity and promote air circulation.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular or irregular-shaped lesions on leaves. The lesions can be brown, gray, or black with yellow or brown halos. Leaf spot can defoliate the plant and reduce its photosynthetic ability. To manage leaf spot, prune and dispose of infected plant parts. Also, avoid overhead watering and provide adequate spacing between plants.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots, causing them to become soft, dark, and decayed. It can lead to wilting, stunting, yellowing, and plant death. Root rot thrives in poorly-drained soil and overwatering. To manage root rot, improve soil drainage and avoid overwatering. Also, rotate crops and use disease-free planting material.
Pest Management
Like many plants, Turraea cornucopia is vulnerable to several pests that can damage plant tissues, reduce yield, and transmit diseases. Below are some of the common pests that might affect the plant, along with suggested management practices.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck sap from leaves, stems, and flowers. They can cause leaf curling, stunting, yellowing, and honeydew production. Aphids also attract ants and can transmit viral diseases. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil. Also, encourage natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies. They can feed on leaves, flowers, and fruits, causing defoliation, holes, and blemishes. Some caterpillars can also burrow into the stems or fruits, leading to rotting and yield loss. To manage caterpillars, handpick or use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad. Also, remove weeds and debris that can harbor the pests.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that can infest leaves, stems, and fruits. They can cause wilting, yellowing, and distortion, as well as honeydew production. Mealybugs also attract ants and can transmit viral diseases. To manage mealybugs, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil. Also, prune and dispose of infested plant parts.
