Origin of Zanthoxylum gilletii (De Wild.) P.G.Waterman
Zanthoxylum gilletii (De Wild.) P.G.Waterman is a plant species belonging to the Rutaceae family. This plant is native to Africa, particularly found in regions of West and Central Africa such as Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and Cameroon.
Common Names for Zanthoxylum gilletii (De Wild.) P.G.Waterman
Zanthoxylum gilletii (De Wild.) P.G.Waterman is commonly known as Shrub yellow wood, Fagara marmorata, and Fagara maritima. In Cameroon, it is called "Kolong-faweh” and "Nabven"
Uses of Zanthoxylum gilletii (De Wild.) P.G.Waterman
Zanthoxylum gilletii (De Wild.) P.G.Waterman has various medicinal properties. It is believed to have anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. In Cameroon, the plant is used to treat fever, stomach pains, and diarrhea. The roots and leaves are also commonly used in Traditional African Medicine to treat numerous ailments, including arthritis, toothache, and rheumatism. The leaves also serve as a natural insect repellent.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant has cultural significance among the indigenous people of the region, where wood from the tree is used to make musical instruments and carvings.
General Appearance of Zanthoxylum gilletii (De Wild.) P.G.Waterman
Zanthoxylum gilletii (De Wild.) P.G.Waterman is a semi-deciduous shrub or small tree that can grow up to 6 meters high. The plant has a bushy structure and is characterized by its shiny and leathery leaves. The leaves are dark green on the upper surface, while the lower surface is pale green. The plant produces small greenish flowers that bloom in clusters, which are followed by woody fruit covered in small spines.
The bark of Zanthoxylum gilletii (De Wild.) P.G.Waterman is grayish-brown and has deep furrows and horizontal lenticels. The wood is hard and durable.
Light Requirements
Zanthoxylum gilletii typically prefers full sun to partial shade; however, it can tolerate shade under certain conditions. For optimal growth and development, it is recommended to plant the species in areas that receive direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours daily. If planted in areas with less sunlight, the plant may exhibit slower growth rates and smaller foliage.
Temperature Requirements
Zanthoxylum gilletii is a tropical species that thrives well in warm temperatures. The plant cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures and requires a minimum temperature of 25°C (77°F) to survive. The optimal temperature range for growth is between 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) with a relative humidity of 60-70%. Any temperature outside this range and humidity above 70% may cause the plant stress.
Soil Requirements
Zanthoxylum gilletii is adaptable to a wide range of soil types, from sandy soils to clay loams. The plant requires well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It prefers soils that are rich in organic matter content for optimal growth. The species can tolerate slightly alkaline soils but does not do well in highly acidic soils. Additionally, preemptive measures have to be taken to prevent waterlogging of the soil, which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation of Zanthoxylum gilletii
Zanthoxylum gilletii is a plant that requires a well-draining soil, mostly grown in full sun or partial shade. It thrives in tropical and subtropical regions with warm temperatures between 25-30 degrees Celsius.
Watering Needs
Adequate watering is essential for the growth of Zanthoxylum gilletii. It requires moderate watering with prolonged periods of drought. However, excessive watering can lead to root rot, which can damage the plant.
Fertilization
Fertilization of Zanthoxylum gilletii should be done during the growing seasons with organic fertilizers. The best time to apply ferilizer is in the early spring before the new growth appears and throughout the summer to ensure healthy growth.
Pruning
Pruning of Zanthoxylum gilletii should be done to enhance its shape and size. It is recommended to prune in late winter before new growth appears to maximize the spring flush. Remove damaged or diseased wood and limit pruning to about one-third of the branches to ensure proper rejuvenation.
Propagation of Zanthoxylum gilletii (De Wild.) P.G.Waterman
Zanthoxylum gilletii (De Wild.) P.G.Waterman, commonly known as Gillet's prickly ash, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is native to Central and East Africa and grows up to 10 meters in height. The plant has a sharp, prickly stem that is 3-4 cm in diameter and produces fragrant white flowers with yellow stamens.
The plant can be propagated using two methods:
1. Seed propagation
The plant produces seeds that can be collected and planted for propagation. The seeds should be collected when they are fully ripe and sown immediately. The best time to sow the seeds is at the beginning of the rainy season. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a layer of sand. The seeds should be watered regularly, and germination should occur within two to four weeks. The seedlings can be transplanted when they are about six months old.
2. Stem cutting propagation
The stem cutting method involves taking a cutting from the parent plant and planting it to produce a new plant. The best time to take cuttings is at the beginning of the rainy season. The stem cuttings should be about 20 cm in length and should include at least two nodes. The leaves on the lower part of the cutting should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil, and the soil should be kept moist. The cuttings should take root within two to three months, and they can be transplanted to their permanent position after about six months.
Propagation of Zanthoxylum gilletii (De Wild.) P.G.Waterman can be done by either seed or stem cutting. Both methods are effective, and the choice of method will depend on the resources available and the preference of the grower.
Disease and Pest Management for Zanthoxylum gilletii
Zanthoxylum gilletii is a species of plant that is popularly known as the knobwood. This plant belongs to the citrus family and is used for various purposes, such as providing natural medicine and spice. However, this plant is susceptible to various diseases and pests, which can limit its growth or even kill it. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect Zanthoxylum gilletii.
Diseases
Bacterial canker: Bacterial canker is a disease caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae. The symptoms of bacterial canker include cankers on the branches and trunk of the plant, and wilting of the leaves. To manage bacterial canker, it is vital to prune the affected parts of the plant and destroy them. Applying copper-based fungicides can help in controlling the disease too.
Phytophthora root rot: Phytophthora root rot is a disease caused by the pathogen Phytophthora nicotianae. The symptoms of phytophthora root rot include wilting, yellowing, and falling of leaves, and the plant eventually dies. To manage phytophthora root rot, it is necessary to ensure the plant is well-drained, and the soil is not waterlogged. Applying fungicides that contain metalaxyl can also help in managing the disease.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from the plant resulting in yellowing of the leaves, stunted growth, and the leaves fall off. To manage spider mites, it is crucial to spray the plant with an insecticide that contains pyrethrins. It is also essential to maintain high humidity to discourage the mites from infesting the plant.
Citrus psyllid: Citrus psyllids are small insects that feed on the plant resulting in stunted growth, yellowing of the leaves, and the leaves drop off. To manage citrus psyllids, it is critical to prune the affected parts of the plant and destroy them. Spraying the plant with insecticides can also help in controlling these pests.
Zanthoxylum gilletii is an important plant that should be protected from diseases and pests. Proper disease, and pest management is essential to maintain the health and productivity of the plant.
