Overview
Turraea mombassana Hiern ex C.DC. subsp. schliebenii (Harms) Styles & F.White is a flowering plant species originally discovered in Kenya. It belongs to the family Meliaceae, which is famous for producing a wide range of medicinal plants. This subspecies is commonly referred to as "Turraea" or "African medlar."
Origin
Turraea mombassana is native to the tropical areas of Africa, particularly in Kenya. This species can grow in a wide range of habitats, including riverine woods, forests, and savannas. The plant can also develop well in moist, well-drained areas where there is ample rainfall. Turraea mombassana can grow up to a height of 25 meters and can live up to 50 years.
Appearance
Turraea mombassana subsp. schliebenii is a deciduous tree that has a straight trunk and a round-shaped crown. The leaves are arranged alternately on the branches and have an oblong shape, with a length of between 6 and 18 cm and a width of up to 7 cm. The flowers of this species are small and white or green, and they grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruits of Turraea mombassana are round-shaped, glossy, and edible.
Uses
Turraea mombassana is widely known for its numerous medicinal properties. The bark and leaves of the plant are used to treat various ailments, including malaria, rheumatism, and fever. The roots of the plant are also used as an antidote for snake venom. Additionally, the fruit and bark are used in traditional medicine to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and gonorrhea.
The fruits of Turraea mombassana are edible and have a sweet taste. They are commonly eaten fresh or used to prepare jams and jellies. The leaves of the plant also have some commercial applications, such as being used to weave baskets and mats.
Growth Conditions of Turraea mombassana Hiern ex C.DC. subsp. schliebenii
Turraea mombassana Hiern ex C.DC. subsp. schliebenii, commonly known as African turraea, is a species of plant that belongs to the family Meliaceae. This plant species predominantly grows in the African continent and usually found in dry to moist forest and woodland habitats.
Light requirements
Like most plants, the African turraea requires adequate sunlight for optimum growth. A partially shaded area with bright and indirect sunlight is an ideal location for this plant species. Direct sunlight can cause leaf burn and other tissue damages to the plant.
Temperature requirements
Turraea mombassana Hiern ex C.DC. subsp. schliebenii favors warm to hot temperatures for better growth. The temperature range for this plant species is between 20°C to 30°C. The plant can tolerate some cooler temperatures, but prolonged exposure can negatively affect its growth and development.
Soil requirements
The African turraea can tolerate a wide range of soil types from loamy to clayey. However, the soil must have good drainage and moderate to high organic matter content. The pH level of soil should be between slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0 to 7.5). The plant does not do well in soils that are waterlogged or too sandy.
In conclusion, the African turraea plant thrives in warm to hot temperatures, bright and indirect sunlight, and well-draining soil with moderate to high amounts of organic matter. Providing these optimal growth conditions can ensure that the plant reaches its full potential.
Cultivation Methods
Turraea mombassana Hiern ex C.DC. subsp. schliebenii (Harms) Styles & F.White can be grown in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. The plant prefers full or partial sun exposure and can be pruned to maintain its shape and size. It can be grown in pots or directly in the ground.
Watering Needs
The plant needs regular watering during its growing season, which is from spring to fall. It is recommended to water the plant once a week, providing enough water to saturate the soil. However, make sure that the soil is not waterlogged as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant benefits from regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer, which contains equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, during the growing season. Fertilize the plant every two months or as instructed by the product label.
Pruning
Pruning Turraea mombassana Hiern ex C.DC. subsp. schliebenii (Harms) Styles & F.White is an essential part of its care. Prune the plant to maintain its shape and size and to remove any dead or damaged branches. Prune the plant during its dormant season, which is during winter. Avoid heavy pruning as it can damage the plant.
Propagation of Turraea mombassana Hiern ex C.DC. subsp. schliebenii (Harms) Styles & F.White
Turraea mombassana Hiern ex C.DC. subsp. schliebenii (Harms) Styles & F.White can be propagated through seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
The first step in propagating Turraea mombassana Hiern ex C.DC. subsp. schliebenii (Harms) Styles & F.White through seeds is to collect mature seeds from its fruit. The fruit of the plant turns from green to black when it is mature. Remove the seeds from the fruit and clean them to remove any remaining fruit tissues. As the seeds have a hard seed coat, it is recommended to either soak them in hot water or make a slight nick on the pointed end of the seed before sowing.
Plant the seeds in well-drained potting soil in a container with drainage holes and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water properly, and keep the container in partial shade. The seeds will germinate in a few weeks, and once they reach a certain size, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Take 6-inch-long cuttings from a healthy Turraea mombassana Hiern ex C.DC. subsp. schliebenii (Harms) Styles & F.White plant in the spring when new growth appears. Remove the leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the cutting. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone, and plant them in well-draining soil mixed with sand. Keep the soil moist and the cuttings in partial shade. In a few weeks, new growth should appear, indicating that the cutting has rooted.
Transplant the rooted cuttings to their permanent location once the roots have grown to fill the container. It is recommended to plant the cuttings when the weather is mild, preferably in the early spring or fall.
Disease Management for Turraea mombassana Hiern ex C.DC. subsp. schliebenii (Harms) Styles & F.White
The plant is prone to attacks by fungal pathogens which cause leafspots, blights, and stem rots. The major fungal diseases that can affect the plant include:
- Anthracnose
- Powdery mildew
- Downy mildew
- Botrytis blight
To manage fungal diseases, it is important to practice good sanitation and hygiene practices, such as ensuring proper spacing between the plants and removing and destroying infected plant parts. Fungicides can also be used to control fungal diseases. However, it is important to follow label instructions and to apply fungicides at the appropriate time in the plant's growth cycle.
Pest Management for Turraea mombassana Hiern ex C.DC. subsp. schliebenii (Harms) Styles & F.White
The plant can also be attacked by various pests that can cause significant damage. The major pests that can affect the plant include:
- Scale insects
- Mites
- Aphids
To manage pests, cultural practices such as pruning and removing infested plant material should be employed. Insecticides and miticides can also be used to control pest populations. However, it is important to use the correct insecticide/miticide for the specific pest and to follow label instructions carefully.
