Overview
Turraea fischeri Gürke subsp. fischeri is a species of plant that belongs to the family Meliaceae. The perennial plant is native to the African continent, specifically in countries such as Tanzania, Malawi, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique and South Africa.Common names
The plant is commonly known by various names, including African pepino, river koko, and Natal mahogany.Appearance
Turraea fischeri Gürke subsp. fischeri is a small to medium-size tree that grows up to 15 meters in height. It has a dense crown and a straight trunk with a rough bark texture. The leaves are compound, with each leaflet measuring about 10-18 cm in length. The flowers are small with five petals, greenish-yellow in colour and form in small clusters. The fruits are woody capsules, elliptical in shape, and measure about 1.5-2.5 cm in diameter. When ripe, the capsules split into two and release small seeds.Uses
The plant is useful for various purposes. Its bark and root extracts are used in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of ailments such as malaria, fever, and respiratory infections. The leaves are used as an insecticide while the seeds are used in soap making. The timber from the plant is also used for furniture making, poles, and carvings. Additionally, the plant is used for ornamental purposes in gardens and parks.Light requirements
Turraea fischeri subsp. fischeri requires full sunlight to grow and thrive. This plant is not well-suited for growing in darker or shaded areas. If grown indoors, it should be placed near a sunny window where it can receive adequate sunlight.
Temperature requirements
Turraea fischeri subsp. fischeri prefers warm temperatures for optimal growth. It thrives in temperatures between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This plant is not cold-tolerant and requires protection from frost and freezing weather.
Soil requirements
Turraea fischeri subsp. fischeri prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It is adaptable to a variety of soil types including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. The pH of the soil should range from neutral to slightly acidic, usually around 6.0 to 7.5. This plant does not tolerate water-logged soil, so it is important to ensure good drainage.
Cultivation
Turraea fischeri Gürke subsp. fischeri is a tropical plant native to Africa. It grows well in warm climates with temperatures ranging from 70-85°F and partial shade or full sunlight. It can be grown in both pots and garden beds.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. In the winter, reduce watering frequency to prevent the roots from rotting.
Fertilization
Turraea fischeri Gürke subsp. fischeri can benefit from regular fertilization. You can use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer, applied monthly during the growing season. Follow the package instructions for the correct amount of fertilizer to use.
Pruning
Pruning Turraea fischeri Gürke subsp. fischeri isn't strictly necessary but can help keep the plant looking tidy and promote branching. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Use clean, sharp shears to remove dead or damaged branches, and to shape the plant as desired.
Propagation of Turraea fischeri Gürke subsp. fischeri
Turraea fischeri Gürke subsp. fischeri, commonly known as Fischer's turraea, is a flowering plant that can be propagated through two main methods: seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds provide the easiest and most efficient way of propagating Turraea fischeri Gürke subsp. fischeri. Collect mature seeds from a healthy parent plant during the flowering season. Sow the seeds in a well-drained potting mix that contains peat and sand. Ensure that the seeds are lightly covered with the potting mix and water thoroughly.
Provide warmth and moisture to the seeds by placing the container in a shaded area that receives indirect sunlight. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which may take up to four weeks. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and continue to care for them until they are mature enough to be planted in their permanent location.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation refers to the use of vegetative parts of the plant such as stem cuttings, root cuttings or division of rootstock. This method can be used when seeds are not available or for the propagation of specific cultivars with desirable characteristics.
To propagate Turraea fischeri Gürke subsp. fischeri through stem cuttings, select cuttings from the parent plant that are healthy and free from any signs of disease or pest infestation. Cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood stems and should be 10-15 cm long.
Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a potting mix that enhances drainage and water retention. Provide warmth and humidity to the cutting by covering it with a clear plastic bag or a propagator lid. Place the cutting in a well-lit place with indirect sunlight.
Keep the soil moist and wait for roots to develop, which should take between six to eight weeks. Once the roots are established, move the plant to a permanent location with similar soil and environmental conditions as the parent plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Turraea Fischeri Gürke subsp. Fisheri
Turraea fischeri Gürke subsp. fischeri is a plant species that is highly susceptible to a number of diseases and pests. Therefore, it is essential to be aware of the common diseases and pests and their management in order to ensure the healthy growth of the plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Turraea fischeri Gürke subsp. fischeri is leaf spot. This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora sp. which leads to the formation of brown spots on the leaves of the plant. Another common disease is root rot, caused by Phytophthora sp. It occurs due to over-watering and poor drainage. Stem canker, caused by Botryosphaeria sp., is also a common disease that causes stem lesions and eventually leads to the death of the plant.
Pest Management
The plant is highly vulnerable to insect and pest attacks. The most common pests that can affect Turraea fischeri Gürke subsp. fischeri include mealybugs, scale insects, and whiteflies. These pests can cause severe damage to the plant by feeding on the leaves and stems, leading to stunted growth, defoliation, and ultimately, the death of the plant.
The first and most important step to pest management is to maintain proper plant hygiene and sanitation. One can regularly inspect the plants for signs of pests and immediately remove the infected parts. Chemical pesticides can be used to control the pests, but it is always better to use natural methods such as the use of ladybugs, parasitic wasps, and spiders, which are natural predators of these pests.
In conclusion, the key to managing the diseases and pests in Turraea fischeri Gürke subsp. fischeri is by maintaining good plant hygiene and sanitation. Regular inspection of the plants, removal of infected parts, and use of natural predators are some of the effective ways of managing diseases and pests.
