Kigelia

Description

Kigelia, also known as the Sausage Tree, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Bignoniaceae. It is native to Africa and commonly found in tropical and sub-tropical regions. The tree is named after its long, sausage-shaped fruit that can grow up to 3 feet long and weigh up to 15 pounds. The fruit is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including skin diseases, malaria, and rheumatism. The bark, leaves, and roots of the tree also have medicinal properties.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Kigelia tree can grow up to 60 feet tall and has a large, spreading canopy. The bark is rough and grey, with deep fissures. The leaves are compound, with 6-8 pairs of leaflets that are oblong or ovate in shape. The flowers are large, bell-shaped, and reddish-brown in color. They are produced in clusters that hang from long stalks. The fruit is a large, sausage-shaped capsule that contains numerous seeds embedded in a fibrous pulp.

Care Guide

Kigelia trees are relatively easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Kigelia tree:- Water: Kigelia trees prefer well-drained soil but can tolerate occasional periods of drought. Water the tree deeply once a week, especially during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: Kigelia trees benefit from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 months.- Soil: Kigelia trees prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5-7.5. They can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.- Sunlight: Kigelia trees prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.- Hardiness Zones: Kigelia trees are hardy in USDA zones 10-12. They are not frost-tolerant and should be protected from cold temperatures.

Common Pests & Diseases

Kigelia trees are relatively pest and disease-resistant, but they can be susceptible to the following:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control infestations.- Root rot: This disease can be caused by overwatering or poorly-drained soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.

Habitat

Kigelia trees are native to Africa and can be found in a variety of habitats, including savannas, woodlands, and riverbanks. They prefer warm, humid climates and can tolerate a range of soil types.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Kigelia trees be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Kigelia trees can be grown in large containers, but they may not reach their full size.

Q: How often should Kigelia trees be pruned?

A: Kigelia trees do not require regular pruning, but they can be shaped or trimmed to remove dead or damaged branches.

Q: Are Kigelia trees toxic?

A: No, Kigelia trees are not toxic, but the fruit and bark should not be consumed in large quantities.

Q: Can Kigelia trees be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, Kigelia trees can be propagated from hardwood or softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants in the Bignoniaceae family:- Jacaranda mimosifolia- Tabebuia impetiginosa- Catalpa bignonioides- Campsis radicans

References

– “Kigelia africana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d316- “Kigelia africana.” Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:109576-1