Commiphora

Family. Burseraceae.

Origin. Africa.

Description. Commiphora are multi-stemmed succulent, deciduous shrubs or trees up to 4 m high. The stems are abundantly branched, have thin, often peeling bark, and are prickly. The base of the trunk often has a caudex. The leaves are simple or 3-segmented, lanceolate or cordate, green, 1-5 cm long, the leaf blades often have finely serrated edges and pubescence on the upper side. The plants are dioecious - male and female flowers appear on different specimens. The flowers are collected in axillary panicles, white, pink or red, with 4 petals. After flowering, round or slightly oblong fruits are formed. When the shoots are damaged, an aromatic milky juice is released.

Height. It grows slowly, in cultivation the height is regulated by pruning.

Temperature conditions

Warm content all year round at a temperature of at least 15 ° C. 

Lighting

Direct sunlight should hit the plant in the morning and evening for at least 3 hours daily. On summer days it needs shading. If the commiphora has dropped its leaves during the dormant period, lighting does not play a role.

Care

Pruning is done in spring. When replanting, the root system is also trimmed.

Substrate

Loose soil with sufficient organic content in the form of leaf humus, turf soil and peat. Good drainage is required.

Feeding

Feed with complex fertilizers monthly from spring to autumn. 

Purpose

Very beautiful when grown as a bonsai.

Flowering time

Spring Summer. 

Air humidity

Spray the plant to prevent pest invasion in the morning. In winter, the air should be dry. Provide a room with good air movement.

Soil moisture

The bush is drought-resistant. Water generously as the plant develops, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings. During the dormant period, reduce watering to a minimum, preventing the soil from drying out.

Transfer

As needed to change the soil or when the plant becomes cramped in the pot.

Reproduction

The seeds of most species are reluctant to emerge, so they are often propagated using cuttings. Seeds are sown in spring in well-drained soil and the pots are placed in a very warm place with a temperature of at least 25 ° C.

Pests and diseases

Overwatering and stagnant water lead to rotting of the plant. Harmful insects usually avoid this tree.

Note

Most species of commiphora have an aromatic resin that is used for medicinal purposes and as incense. 

Varieties:

Commiphora myrrha

A succulent shrub or low tree with a thick trunk and abundantly branching shoots bearing strong, sharp thorns. The bark is brown or gray, thin, and often peels off to reveal the green core of the trunk. The leaves are green, simple or compound - consisting of 3 leaflets, variable in shape and size of the leaf blades. With the onset of autumn, the leaves acquire a yellowish tint and fall off. When damaged, the stems and leaves emit a very pleasant aroma that easily fills the room.