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Description
Combretum Glutinosum, commonly known as the “Koko” tree, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Combretaceae. It is native to West Africa and can be found in countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, and Cameroon. The plant is a small to medium-sized tree, growing up to 25 meters tall, and has a grayish-brown bark that is rough and flaky. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate, with a length of 8-20 cm and a width of 4-10 cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Myrtales |
| Family | Combretaceae |
| Genus | Combretum |
Appearance
The flowers of Combretum Glutinosum are small and white, with a length of 2-3 mm and a width of 1-2 mm. They grow in clusters of 5-10 cm long and have a sweet fragrance. The fruit is a small, brown, one-seeded drupe that is 1-1.5 cm in diameter. The plant blooms in the dry season, from December to March, and the fruit ripens in the rainy season, from May to August.
Care Guide
Combretum Glutinosum requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in full sun and can tolerate partial shade. The plant requires moderate watering, especially during the dry season. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Combretum Glutinosum is hardy to USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The plant is susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. It is also vulnerable to attack by mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. To prevent and control pests and diseases, keep the plant in good health, remove infected leaves, and apply appropriate insecticides and fungicides.
Habitat
Combretum Glutinosum is commonly found in savannas, woodland, and forest edges. It grows in a variety of soils, including sandy and rocky soils. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and malaria.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Combretum Glutinosum a fast-growing plant?
A: No, Combretum Glutinosum is a slow-growing plant.
Q: Can Combretum Glutinosum tolerate drought?
A: Yes, the plant can tolerate drought but requires moderate watering.
Q: What is the significance of the fruit of Combretum Glutinosum?
A: The fruit of Combretum Glutinosum is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including diarrhea and fever.
Q: Can Combretum Glutinosum be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container but requires a large container to accommodate its growth.
Related Plants
- Combretum aculeatum
- Combretum adenogonium
- Combretum alfredii
- Combretum apiculatum
References
- Combretum glutinosum. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.gbif.org/species/3198102
- Combretum glutinosum. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://plants.jstor.org/compilation/Combretum.glutinosum
- Combretum glutinosum. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/121585
