Overview
Rhus welwitschii Engl. var. angustifoliolata Baker f. is a plant native to southern Africa that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. It is commonly referred to as the "Large-fruited karree" or "Umthako" by the indigenous people of South Africa's eastern Cape.
Description
The plant can grow up to 3 meters in height and has a highly branched and spreading growth form with compound leaves. These leaves are elliptic to ovate in shape, measuring between 1.5 - 3.5 cm in length, with a glossy and hairless upper surface, while the lower surface is velvety. The stem is erect with grey to brown bark and bears multiple small, greenish-brown flowers from August to October. The plant yields a large reddish-brown fruit, which is edible but has a sour taste.
Origin and Distribution
Rhus welwitschii var. angustifoliolata is native to South Africa, specifically in the Eastern Cape region, where it is found growing in the grasslands and bushveld. It is often found in rocky areas or on hill slopes, and it prefers to grow in sandy soils with good drainage. The plant is not widely cultivated, but it can be propagated by seeds or cuttings.
Uses
Indigenous people in the Eastern Cape region of South Africa use various parts of the plant for medicinal purposes, including treating stomach ailments, respiratory infections, and oral infections. The fruit is also used to make fermented drinks and preserves.
The plant is not commonly used for ornamental purposes, but it is sometimes grown in gardens as an accent plant for its foliage and fruits.
Light Requirements
The plant Rhus welwitschii Engl. var. angustifoliolata Baker f. prefers to grow in a location where it will receive full sun exposure. This plant can tolerate partial shade, but it will grow best when provided with abundant sunlight. If the plant is grown indoors, it should be placed near a south-facing window to ensure it receives ample light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Rhus welwitschii Engl. var. angustifoliolata Baker f. is native to the warm and arid regions of Africa. It is adapted to hot and dry conditions, and it can survive in temperatures ranging from 50°F to 100°F. However, it can also tolerate temperatures as low as 30°F for short periods. It is important to protect this plant from frost and freezing temperatures, which can cause damage or even kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant Rhus welwitschii Engl. var. angustifoliolata Baker f. prefers a well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. It can grow in various soils, including loamy, sandy, and rocky soils. However, it is important to avoid planting this species in clay soils as this may cause waterlogging and root rot. This plant is tolerant of drought conditions but cannot tolerate water-saturated soils.
Cultivation Methods
Rhus welwitschii Engl. var. angustifoliolata Baker f. is a drought-tolerant plant that grows best in well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. It prefers full sun exposure, and a warm and dry climate, making it suitable for areas with a Mediterranean climate. This plant can be propagated via seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
As a drought-tolerant plant, Rhus welwitschii Engl. var. angustifoliolata Baker f. does not require frequent watering. However, it is crucial to water the plant occasionally during the hot and dry summer months. The plant should be watered deeply, ensuring that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Rhus welwitschii Engl. var. angustifoliolata Baker f. does not require much fertilization, but applying a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth. It is essential to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to become weak and vulnerable to diseases and pests.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential practice when cultivating Rhus welwitschii Engl. var. angustifoliolata Baker f. It is advisable to prune the plant during the early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. Pruning can also be done to enhance the plant's shape and promote healthy growth. When pruning, it is crucial to use clean and sharp tools to avoid injuring the plant.
Propagation of Rhus welwitschii Engl. var. angustifoliolata Baker f.
Rhus welwitschii Engl. var. angustifoliolata Baker f. can be propagated by seeds or cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds should be collected when they are fully ripe and sown immediately. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix that is kept moist. The seedlings should start to emerge within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual containers, where they can grow until they are large enough to be planted in the ground.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from Rhus welwitschii Engl. var. angustifoliolata Baker f. during the spring or summer months. The cuttings should be taken from young, vigorous shoots and should be approximately 10-15cm long. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining soil mix that is kept moist. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight. The cuttings should start to develop roots within 4-6 weeks. Once the cuttings have developed a strong root system, they can be transplanted into individual containers, where they can grow until they are large enough to be planted in the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Rhus welwitschii Engl. var. angustifoliolata Baker f.
Rhus welwitschii Engl. var. angustifoliolata Baker f. is a plant species that is native to Angola and found in the family Anacardiaceae. It is commonly known as the African sumac or pepper tree and is known for its attractive foliage and ability to provide shade. However, like all plants, Rhus welwitschii is susceptible to diseases and pests that can affect its growth and health.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Rhus welwitschii is anthracnose, which is a fungal disease that can cause leaf spots, defoliation, and dieback. To manage anthracnose, it is important to prune affected branches and leaves and dispose of them. Applying fungicides can also help prevent the spread of the disease.
Canker is another fungal disease that can affect this plant, causing damage to bark and wood and leading to branch dieback. To manage canker, infected branches should be pruned and destroyed. Applying fungicides can also be helpful in preventing the spread of the disease.
Bacterial leaf spot is a bacterial disease that can cause leaf spots and defoliation in Rhus welwitschii plants. To manage this disease, it is important to prune infected branches and leaves and destroy them. Applying copper-based fungicides can also be effective in preventing the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
Rhus welwitschii can also be susceptible to various pests, including spider mites, scale insects, and mealybugs. Spider mites can cause leaves to turn yellow and brown and webbing to appear on the plant. To manage spider mites, it is important to regularly inspect the plant and remove any affected leaves. Applying insecticidal soap or oil can also be effective in controlling the pest.
Scale insects can cause browning and wilting of the plant, and they can also attract ants. To manage scale insects, it is important to prune affected branches and leaves and dispose of them. Applying insecticidal soap or oil can also help control the pest.
Mealybugs can cause yellowing of leaves and can produce a sticky substance on the plant. To manage mealybugs, it is important to prune infected branches and leaves and dispose of them. Applying insecticidal soap or oil can also be effective in controlling the pest.
Overall, proper care and maintenance of Rhus welwitschii plants can help prevent disease and pest infestations. This includes regular pruning, proper irrigation, and fertilization. Regular monitoring of the plant can also help catch and address any issues early on.
