KENYA SHADE TREE

Description

Acrocarpus fraxinifolius is native to the tropical regions of Asia. It is a fast-growing, deciduous tree, which annually can grow 1.3-3 m (4.25 – 10 ft), attaining heights of 30-60 m (100–200 ft) and a diameter of over 200 cm. A. fraxinifolius is a pioneer tree, one of the first to regrow in a cleared area. It is very sensitive to frost. Acrocarpus is recommended for erosion control because of its deep root system, up to 4.5 m (15 ft), which holds soil in place on hillsides and along rivers.

Uses

It functions as a shade tree on tea and coffee plantations in countries such as Kenya and Uganda. The wood of Acrocarpus fraxinifolius is hard and strong resembling ash and walnut so that it often substitutes for these two species in construction and fuel needs. It also has potential to be used as a windbreak. The leaves can serve as fodder for animals and the flowers produce nectar and pollen for bees. Although a legume, it apparently does not have nitrogen-fixing nodules. The leaves are suitable for use as mulch.

Cultivation

• Planting depth: 2 cm (.75 in)

• Germination: 15-30 days; The seeds have a hard coat and require pretreatment to germinate. The seeds      can be soaked in concentrated sulfuric acid for 10 minutes or soaked in 90° C (194° F) water for 1 minute.    Then let soak in cool water for 6 hours.
• Light requirements: Full sun, though can tolerate some shade at a young stage
• Soil: can grow in acid and calcareous soils

• Elevation: sea level – 2,000 m (6,600 ft)
• Temperature: 15° - 26° C (59° - 80° F)

• Rainfall: 500-3000 mm (20-120 in)

Harvesting and Seed Production

The flat, golden-brown pods are approximately 20 cm (8 in) long and slightly less than 3 cm (1 in) wide. When the fruits are dry they are macerated to release the seed. Cleaned seeds can be stored at room temperature for up to a year.

Pests and Diseases

The flat, golden-brown pods are approximately 20 cm (8 in) long and slightly less than 3 cm (1 in) wide. When the fruits are dry they are macerated to release the seed. Cleaned seeds can be stored at room temperature for up to a year.