Reptiles and Amphibians in the eMalangeni Peat Swamp Forest

Here are a few of the reptiles and amphibians that one could encounter in the eMalangeni Peat swamp forest. I will be adding to this list as from time to time when I have taken identified more species as well as when I take or acquire more photos.

The flap-necked chameleon, Chamaeleo dilepis 

known as unwabu in Zulu is a lizard belonging to the family Chamaeleonidae which apart from being found in the eMalangeni Peat Swamp Forest has a very wide distribution, occurring throughout much of sub-Saharan Africa from as far north as Ethiopia and Somalia to a western extreme of Cameroon, and as far south as northern and eastern South Africa. It inhabits coastal forest, moist or dry savannah, woodland and bushy grasslands, and may also venture into rural and suburban areas.

Unwabu the flap-necked chameleon, Chamaeleo dilepis in the eMalangeni Peat swamp forest at Kosi Bay

Chamaeleo dilepis is a large green chameleon a pale stripe on the lower flanks reaching a total length of 35 cm that is difficult to not recognize. 

The Flap-Necked Chameleon feeds on Insects, particularly grasshoppers and beetles, in return they are commonly preyed on by snakes such as the Boomslang (Dispholidus typus) and the Southern Twig Snake (Thelotornis capensis).

It is easy to tell the males from the females in the Flap-Neck Chameleon, the males having a broadness at the base of their tails and also a spur growing out from the back of each hind foot.

Unwabu reproduces by means of 10-40 eggs that are laid in a hole dug into the soil that take 10–12 months to hatch. 

Nile Crocodile, Crocodylus niloticus 

which grows to a length of 16 meters, and a weight of up to 500 kilograms, is the largest reptile to be encountered in the emalangeni Peat Swamp Forest where it is to be found on the shores of lake aManzimnyama as well as in the aManzimnyama river and its side streams that flow through  and drain the forest into the Lake.

Nile Crocodile Crocodylus niloticus

The Nile Crocodile Crocodylus niloticus which is known locally in the Zulu language as Ingwenya is widely distributed throughout sub-Saharan Africa, occurring mostly in the central, eastern, and southern regions of the continent, and lives in different types of aquatic environments such as lakes, rivers, swamps, and marshlands.

Greater Leaf-folding Frog, Afrixalus fornasinii

belonging  to the frog family Hyperoliidae are relatively large, conspicuous frogs which are easily distinguished from the sympatric dwarf Afrixalus species, both morphologically and by its loud, distinctive call.

Greater Leaf-folding Frog, Afrixalus fornasinii belonging  to the frog family Hyperoliidae in the eMalangeni peat swamp forest Kosi Bay.

The Greater Leaf-folding Frog which occurs in the eMalangeni Peat Swamp Forest has a wide distribution that extends from the coast of southern Somalia southward through East Africa to Malawi, Mozambique and eastern Zimbabwe into South Africa where it occurs along the coast of KwaZulu-Natal as far south as Port Edward. 

 fornasinii is locally abundant, it also occurs in a number of coastal and lowland reserves such as those at Mkuze, False Bay, St Lucia and Mtunzini. 

this frog gets its name because of its habit of  longitudinally folding leaves up to 1 m above the water into which between 30 and 80 white eggs are deposited in which take about five days to hatch when they fall into the water. The tadpoles that are carnivorous appear to specialize on mosquito larvae they metamorphose about three months later hatching.

During the breeding season, Afrixalus fornasinii inhabits more-or-less stagnant water bodies containing large stands of saw grass Afrixalus Afrixalus and bulrushes Typha Afrixalus. 

In winter they have been found sheltering in the leaf axils of arum lilies, Zantedeschia aethiopica  and Strelitzia nicholai, often a considerable distance from their breeding sites.

Southern Tree Agamas, commonly known as Blue-headed lizards, Acanthocercus atricollis

The Blue-headed lizards apart from being found in the eMalangeni Peat Swamp Forest has a very large range in Africa being found in the following countries, Eritrea, Somalia, Ethiopia, Sudan, South Sudan, Uganda, D.R.C., Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Swaziland and South Africa.

This magnificent lizard is called the black-necked agama (Acanthocercus atricollis) when its most striking feature is the bright blue head of the male

When breeding, the males are colourful and their vividly blue heads are most striking. Non-breeding males and females are considerably less conspicuous although their more understated scaly markings still render them handsome reptiles.

Blue-headed lizards that are ambush foragers are active during the day when they catch and eat mostly insects, particularly ants, as well as beetles and grasshoppers, at night they sleep in tree hollows or under loose bark. Agamas are unusual in that Most lizards do not eat ants because they are too acidic. 

Eastern Hinged Back Tortoise, Kinixys zombensis, ufudu, Glattrand-Gelenkschildkröte

I was most amazed to find this tortoise pictured below wandering around feeding in the eMalangeni forest, I had never thought of tortoises as being forest dwellers.

Eastern Hinged Back Tortoise, Kinixys zombensis

Hinged Back Tortoises are famous and unique due to the ability to close the back part of the shell over their hind limbs, likely as protection from big cats and other powerful predators. Most species are considered at least threatened and several are very endangered. They are a significant food source in most of their range, some people using trained dogs to locate them. There is also pressure from over-collection for the pet trade and habitat loss.

They do not hibernate, but possibly aestivate or just rest in hot, dry weather.

The head and limbs are generally typical of a tortoise- elephant-like limbs with slightly flattened fore-limbs- but are longer and more slender. The limbs and shell shape give them a distinctive 'walking downhill' look. No visible toes, but five toenails on each limb. The tail has a nail-like claw on the tip. The limb coloration is usually fairly solid, ranging from tan to nearly black.

Eastern Hinged Back Tortoise, Kinixys zombensis

Eastern Hinged Back Tortoise is an omnivore, with a very varied diet consisting mainly of vegetables, twigs, roots, leaves, fruits, earthworms, snails, tadpoles and other small invertebrates.

The African striped skink (Trachylepis striata), commonly called the striped skink, is a species of lizard in the skink family (Scincidae).

The Gaboon Adder Bitis gabonica

This post is not complete I will continue in the morning

Michael Hickman

19.05.21

please visit my websites 

www.ecoman.co.za 

www.hlem.co.za 

as well as my other blogs at

http://luthulienvironment.blogspot.com/ 

http://ecomandurban.blogspot.com/

http://ecoman.co.za/projects/emalangeni.html

https://www.hlem.co.za/emalangeni.html

 

Microsorum scolopendria a Magnificent Fern in the eMalangeni Forest

This striking fern Microsorum scolopendria will very soon be noticed on entering into the eMalangeni forest, with its shining lush green leaves it is hard to not notice. In addition Microsorum scolopendria is one of the most  numerous plants on the forest floor often forming extensive patches and occasionally up into the trees.

Microsorum scolopendria is known locally as umlalamvubu commonly called wart fern in English

Distribution

This magnificent forest fern which is a favorite of mine was formerly known as Phymatodes scolopendria, does not only grow in  the eMalangeni Forest it is widespread in the Old World, occurring from Africa and Madagascar to Asia and Australia, as well as throughout Polynesia. 

In Africa umlalamvubu occurs along the east coast of South Africa from as far south as Port St Johns where it occurs mostly in dune forests and dune scrub as well as swamp forest near to the coast. From South Africa its range extends throughout tropical Africa up into West Africa. 

Microsorum scolopendria locally known as umlalamvubu, translated as the plants that hippos sleep on

Description

Microsorum scolopendria has a strong widely creeping rhizome up to 10 mm in diameter that mostly occurs on the soil surface.

The deeply pinnatifid, leathery fronds, up to 0.9 m long, are widely spaced along the rhizome. The leaf stalk is up to 400 mm long. The leaf blade is divided into narrowly oblong lobes, up to 220 x 30 mm. 

The deeply pinnatifid, leathery fronds of umlalamvubu Microsorum scolopendria

The somewhat sunken sori are round to oval, 2 to 3 mm in diameter and occur in one or two rows on either side of the costa. Adaxially the sori are embossed.

The sunken sori on the underside of the leaf of Microsorum scolopendria

Microsorum scolopendria crawls along the ground to form an extensive ground cover in places, but will also climb up tree trunks at times. 

Ethnobotanical uses

locally umlalamvubu is used by herbalists to treat abscesses for which a paste of ground leaves is mixed with earth from a wasp's nest before being applied. Umlalamvubu is also used to dress wounds where leaf pulp is used as a dressing, as well as to treat insanity, where leaves are ground then mixed with water and the liquid drunk.

Uses Singapore

 

The crushed Fronds of Microsorum scolopendria which contain coumarin a fragrant colorless crystalline solid with a sweet odor resembling the scent of vanilla are used to perfume clothes as well as coconut oil.

Uses in Hawaii

When crushed, the fern issues a scent similar to the fragrant maile plant, Alyxia stellata which is used in making traditional leis. Sometimes, pieces of the fern are interlaced into leis because of their fragrance. Microsorum scolopendria is also one of the plants used for scenting kapa fabric.

When crushed, the leaves of the fern Microsorum scolopendria issues a fragrant scent similar to vanilla

Cultivation

Microsorum scolopendria is a hardy species that is often used in landscape design in shady areas and for indoor landscapes. Microsorum scolopendria is easy to cultivate and grows in a wide range of habitats. Microsorum scolopendria when grown outdoors it grows best in light shade, but it will also tolerate direct sunlight for part of the day. In older gardens it often establishes on brick or stone walls, or on trees, especially palms. Although it will tolerate short dry spells it is best kept well watered.

Microsorum scolopendria makes and excellent indoor pot plant. 

When grown in hanging baskets  the creeping rhizome droop gracefully down from the basket.

This magnificent fern warrants being planted far more often in landscapes and gardens in the areas in KwaZulu-Natal where it grows.

Guided excursions

Please join us on one of our many guided excursions conducted in Zulu, English or German into the eMalangeni Forest, Kosi Bay area, Tembe Elephant Park the home of the world largest elephants and other surrounding natural areas. Please visit one of my websites for my contact details.

Michael Hickman

18.04.21

Please visit my websites at

www.ecoman.co.za

www.hlem.co.za

as well as my other blogs at

http://luthulienvironment.blogspot.com/ 

http://ecomandurban.blogspot.com/

http://ecoman.co.za/projects/emalangeni.html

https://www.hlem.co.za/emalangeni.html

Indlubu an indigenous ground bean eMalangeni Forest

Indlubu is an African indigenous ground bean which plays an important role in the local culture of eMalangeni

Indlubu is an African indigenous ground bean belonging to the legumes in the plant family Fabacaceae having the botanical name Vigna subterranea  and known in English as Bambara groundnut. Indlubu was probably brought to and grown in this region through migration of the inguni indigenous peoples who brought it as far south as KwaZulu-Natal. Presently the cultivation of indlubu is confined to the Northern Province and KwaZulu-Natal.

Indlubu is an African indigenous ground bean which plays an important role in the local culture of eMalangeni

Indlubu which plays an important role in the local culture of eMalangeni is very tasty when cooked in salt water and eaten as a snack, they are just like salted peanuts or potato crisps. once you have had one you simply cannot stop eating them until the whole lot are eaten.

Description 

Indlubu Vigna subterranea is an annual, much branched, prostrate creeping leguminous plant, grown primarily for its very tasty nutritious edible seeds. In Africa, indlubu is the third eaten legume after namantongomane peanuts Arachis hypogaea and cowpea Vigna  unguiculata.

The beans of Indlubu Vigna subterranea which is an African indigenous ground bean 

Origin and geographic distribution 

The center of origin of indlubu groundnut is probably north-eastern Nigeria and northern Cameroon. It is found in the wild from central Nigeria eastwards to southern Sudan, and is now cultivated throughout tropical Africa, and to a lesser extent in tropical parts of the Americas, Asia and Australia. Its use as a pulse in West Africa was recorded by Arabic travelers in the14th Century. Its importance declined after the introduction of groundnut from the New World tropics.

Importance

Indlubu represents the third most important grain legume in semi-arid Africa, Indlubu is resistant to high temperature and is suitable for marginal soils where other leguminous crops cannot be grown.

Sadly indlubu has largely been ignored by the scientific community being regarded as a poor man's crop.

Traditional grain storage hut isididi or inqolobane at eMalangeni Forest Kosi Bay iSimangaliso Wetland Park 

Uses

Indlubu is grown primarily for its seeds, which are used in many types of foods. Mature, dry seeds are boiled and eaten as a pulse. Dried seeds, either whole or split, are also mixed with maize then boiled. The seeds may be ground into flour, sometimes after roasting, to prepare a porridge. They are also added to maize flour to enrich traditional preparations. Sometimes seeds are soaked in water and ground into a paste which is used to prepare fried or steamed dishes. Immature seeds are often boiled with salt and eaten as a snack. 

The seeds and left overs are fed to  poultry, and the leafy shoots are used as fodder for goats, Zulu sheep and cows. 

Indigenous Zulu  fowl hens

Indlubu played an important role in the agriculture and of diets of the local people of the eMalangeni area before they were forcefully removed to make way for the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Today  indlubu still plays an important role in the local cuisine.

The local people make a very tasty soup out of peanuts Arachis hypogaea and ground beans Indlubu Vigna subterranea and use them in very many other dishes.

A local woman pounding peanut seeds to make a tasty soup to which indlubu groundnut is added 

In the Local area it was believed that men that went away to work for long periods of time had to eat Indlubu on their return to cleanse themselves of possible diseases  before having intercourse with their wives

Climatic requirements

Optimal conditions for growth are 30-35°C day-temperature for germination, average day temperatures ranging from 20 to 28°C under full sun, average annual rainfall of 600-750 mm (optimum yields are obtained when rainfall is higher), good P and K soil content and light sandy loams with a pH of 5.0-6.5. Indlubu can grow in more humid conditions (annual rainfall > 2000 mm), and in every type of soil provided it is well drained and not too calcareous. It is tolerant to drought, to pests and diseases, particularly in hot conditions. In many traditional cropping systems it is intercropped with other root and tuber crops  

iZimvu indigenous Zulu sheep at eMalangeni Forest Bush Camp iSimangaliso Wetland park 

Soil requirements

Optimal soils for Indlubu production are sandy soils to prevent waterlogging. Optimal soil depth is between 50 and 100 cm, with a light soil texture. Soil fertility should be low and soil pH is best suited between 5 and 6.5 and should not be lower than 4.3 or higher than 7.

Cropping system

Indlubu are suited to and were intercropped with ummbila maize, amabele sorghum, unyawothi pearly millet, ithanga pumpkin, ubhatata sweet potato and umdumbula cassava at eMalangeni.

Unyawothi Cenchrus americanus has been grown in Africa since ancient times as has been indlubu, the center of diversity, and suggested area of domestication for the crop is in the Sahel zone of West Africa. Zulu beer Umqombothi was traditionally brewed from unyawothi pearl millet and amabele sorghum.

Growth cycle

The growth cycle is between  90–170 days and under optimal conditions the cycle is about 120–150 days to pod maturity. Flowers appear 40–60 days after planting. 30 days after pollination the pod reaches maturity and during another 55 days the seeds fully develop. Every 30 days they are produced again. Like the peanut Vigna subterranea ripens its pods underground. 

Like most other legumes, Indlubu harbor symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria in the root nodules. The capacity to fix nitrogen means Indlubu require less nitrogen-containing fertilizer and they improve soil fertility, making them valuable in crop rotations.

Indigenous Zulu goat, Makhathini Ecotype Mbuzi, eMalangeni Forest Bush Camp iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Guided excursions

Please join us on one of our many guided excursions conducted in Zulu, English or German into the eMalangeni Forest, Kosi Bay area, Tembe Elephant Park the home of the world largest elephants and other surrounding natural areas. Please visit one of my websites for my contact details.

Michael Hickman

14.04.21

Please visit my websites at

www.ecoman.co.za

www.hlem.co.za

as well as my other blogs at

http://luthulienvironment.blogspot.com/ 

http://ecomandurban.blogspot.com/

http://ecoman.co.za/projects/emalangeni.html

https://www.hlem.co.za/emalangeni.html

Deinbollia oblongifolia at the eMalangeni Forest

Deinbollia oblongifolia, Dune Soapberry, known locally as  iQinisa-masimu in the Zulu language growing in the eMalangeni Forest

Deinbollia oblongifolia is a small tree that is found mostly on the edges of the eMalangeni Forest  in full sun where it flowers and fruits best as well as in the forest. iQinisa-masimu belongs to the Litchi family Sapindaceae.

Deinbollia oblongifolia Dune Soap Berry iQinisa-masimu belongs to the Litchi family Sapindaceae 

Deinbollia oblongifolia very productive tree that supports a wealth of wildlife, many bird species such as the Greenbul, animals such as forest antelope that feed on that browse on the leaves and pick up fruit that has fallen to the ground. iQinisa-masimu also attracts vast amounts of insects in particular bees and some of thee most beautiful butterflies found in the eMalangeni forest. If planted in the home garden the Dune Soapberry is one of the best plants for attracting birds, butterflies and moths as well as other insects into the garden.

Description

Deinbollia oblongifolia is an erect sparsely-branched shrub or small slender tree, about 9 meters (30 ft) tall that has a very upright columnar growth form with distinct terminal heads of leaves. The stem that often branches low down has a dark grey brown colouration.

Deinbollia oblongifolia photographed at eMalangeni Forest has a slightly different growth form to the trees growing further south

The Leaves are alternate large, compound,300-500 mm long. The leaf stalk is up to 90 mm long. Leaflets opposite, 5-10 pairs, oblong to elliptic, 35-150 x 15-50 mm, hard, pale green when new becoming dark green, with pale veins. 

the leaves have a few hairs or hairless, they are clustered at the ends of the branches. The dune soap-berry may be easily confused with a young forest mahogany (Trichilia dregeana) because of the similar shaped compound leaves, however the dune soap-berry has paler green slightly matt leaves compared to the forest mahogany, which has a darker green leaf that is slightly more glossy.

The flowers of Deinbollia oblongifolia are white and are produced on branched flowering heads at the ends of the branches.

iQinisa-masimu produces masses of pale yellow fruits during the winter months, the fruits of the Dune Soap Berry are rounded, green and velvety when young to yellow and smooth when ripe.

Sombre Greenbul Andropadus importunus on Deinbollia oblongifolia eMalangeni Forest photo Geoff Nichols

Distribution

Deinbollia oblongifolia grows in coastal thickets, forest, bushveld and dune bush in the Eastern Cape, 

Kwazulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Limpopo, and in southern Mozambique.

Habitat

the Dune Soapberry is usually found growing in full sun on the edges of forest and coastal bush

where it enjoys full sun but will survive in the shade but not flower and fruit as well.

Ecological significance in the eMalangeni Forest

iQinisa-masimu is a tree to look out for in the eMalangeni Forest if one wants to see the many very beautiful birds and butterflies that are associated with it.

The flowers attract many insects in particular butterflies, the sweet tasting fruits are eaten by birds, forest antelope, the thick-tailed galago Otolemur crassicaudatus also known as Bush babies, monkeys and humans.

The magnificent butterfly gold-banded forester Euphaedra neophron

Thanks goes to Geoff Nichols for supplying this photo

Deinbollia oblongifolia is also the host food plant to many species of butterfly and moths, the leaves and developing fruits are fed on by the larvae of several butterflies and at least one moth the African peach moth Egybolis vaillantina. 

The African peach moth Egybolis vaillantina larvae feed on the leaves of Deinbollia oblongifolia eMalangeni Forest at Kosi Bay.

These being the magnificent butterfly gold-banded forester Euphaedra neophron that should not be missed under any circumstances, the forest queen Euxanthe wakefieldi and the purple-brown hairstreak Hypolycaena philippus. 

Various Deudorix butterfly species' of which the larvae feed feed on the developing fruit of these trees, 

These including the larvae of the black-and-orange playboy Deudorix dariaves and the apricot playboy Deudorix dinochares

The butterfly Deudorix diocles on the flower of Deinbollia oblongifolia eMalangeni Forest

photo kindly made available by Geoff Nichols

The extremely attractive larvae of the African peach moth Egybolis vaillantina also feed on the leaves of Deinbollia oblongifolia.

The extremely attractive larvae of the African peach moth Egybolis vaillantina feed on the leaves of Deinbollia oblongifolia in the eMalangeni Forest at Kosi bay

Charaxes butterflies feed on the fermenting fruits, in addition the green-veined Charaxes, Charaxes candiope, pearl Charaxes Charaxes varanes, satyr charaxes Charaxes ethalion, forest-king charaxes Charaxes xiphares, white-barred charaxes Charaxes brutus and the Natal tree nymph Sevenia natalensis feed on the sap of Deinbollia oblongifolia.

Uses by the local population

The fruit are eaten as well as he young leaves which are cooked and eaten as spinach by the local people.

The seeds lather in water and are used as soap. 

Ethnobotany

The roots are used in traditional Zulu medicine a root infusion being used for stomach complaints as well as to treat diarrhea and dysentery. Powdered bark is rubbed into cuts in the forehead to relieve headaches.

Ornamental Landscape Use

Deinbollia oblongifolia is an excellent small feature tree for use in landscaping in particular in the indigenous and home garden.

Deinbollia oblongifolia is an excellent tree for ornamental landscape use

The Dune Soap Berry is a very attractive garden plant with its upright growth habit and glossy green leaves which give it a very lust tropical look. it does well in sandy soils in shady as well as sunny areas. 

this is one of the best most productive plants for attracting butterflies, moths, other insects and birds into the garden.

Growing Deinbollia oblongifolia

Deinbollia oblongifolia it is easily grown from fresh  seed planted into trays filled with seedling soil or a mixture of river sand and sifted compost  keep moist but do not over water.

Guided excursions

Guided excursions in English, Zulu and German into the eMalangeni Forest, Kosi Bay and surrounding areas including the nearby Tembe Elephant Park can be arranged. Please visit my websites for my contact details.

Michael Hickman

13.04.21

Please visit my websites at

www.ecoman.co.za

www.hlem.co.za

as well as my other blogs at

http://luthulienvironment.blogspot.com/ 

http://ecomandurban.blogspot.com/

http://ecoman.co.za/projects/emalangeni.html

https://www.hlem.co.za/emalangeni.html

iNjemane the local iLala palm wine

The local palm wine iNjemane is made from the sap of Hyphaene coriacea, locally known as iLala, as well as the sap of the local date palm, Phoenix reclinata, locally known as uSundu.

Mature iLala palm Hyphaene coriacea growing in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Although the ilala palm Hyphaene coriacea is not abundant in and immediately around the eMalangeni Forest very significant numbers grow in the area which have considerable cultural and economic significance and clearly make a significant contribution to the economy of the area. The local date palm Phoenix reclinata in however abundant in the eMalangeni Forest.

Distribution

Hyphaene coriacea is common in coastal sand from eastern South Africa, Mozambique, Tanzania, Kenya, Somalia, Ethiopia and Madagascar it is much rarer inland.

Habitat

Hyphaene coriacea is often seen growing near but not on the banks of rivers often in hot, dry areas in poor or exhausted soils with impeded drainage

Reflection of a mature iLala palm Hyphaene coriacea growing in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park 

Description

Hyphaene coriacea is dioecious with separate male and female trees. Hyphaene coriacea suckers to forms clumps

Fruit

The fruits that are found only on the female trees are green to pale orange at first, becoming progressively more brown with age, they irregularly pear-shaped, about 60-80mm in diameter with a distinctive fruity aroma. 

Unripe seed of the iLala palm Hyphaene coriacea growing in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park

The outer shell is glossy and tough, internally an edible spongy fibrous pulp surrounds the single seed.

Ripe seed of the iLala palm Hyphaene coriacea growing in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park

 The fruits take about two years to reach maturity and another two years before falling from the plant where they are dispersed by elephants, monkeys and baboons.

African elephant still distribute the ripe seed of the iLala palm Hyphaene coriacea in the nearby Tembe elephant park

Uses

The iLala palm Hyphaene coriacea is an ethnobotanically-important plant to the local Maputaland communities where one estimate puts the number of plants at over 10 million plants in an area of 156,000 hectares.

Leaves

The leaves are used extensively for weaving mats and baskets and brooms and similar ware, these were historically manufactured for domestic usage but now are becoming prominent items in the increasing tourist trade. 

Handbag made at Kosi Bay from leaves of the iLala palm Hyphaene coriacea

Imbenge or lid made at Kosi Bay from leaves of the iLala palmHyphaene coriacea  covering a traditional Ukhamba pot

umshanelo broom made at Kosi Bay from leaves of the iLala palm Hyphaene coriacea

The purchase of these useful household goods and souvenirs is to be encouraged, as the raw material from which they are made is eminently renewable. The methods used to harvest the leaves are sustainable. Only the young pliable leaves are harvested, with only one third of the leaf taken, so the remainder can develop fully. They are boiled and then dried in the sun to soften them for weaving and may be coloured using natural dyes.

iNjemane the local iLala palm wine

The is a vigorous local industry in the manufacture of palm wine known locally as iNjemane that it is highly intoxicating with an alcohol content of some 5-10%, which lies between the beers and wines. Injemane is obtained by tapping the stems of the iLala Palm as well to a lesser extent the local date palm Phoenix reclinata which is far more abundant in the eMalangeni Forest, to produce a sugary sap which is fermented by natural yeasts. To tap the palms the leaves are either burned or stripped and the growing tip is cut away, incisions made and a leaf stalk inserted as a spout. The sap oozes down this and is collected into plastic mineral bottles hung below. A plaited straw hat is placed over the tip of the palm to protect it from the sun and to keep it moist as well as to keep dirt out.

Plaited cap covering the container collecting the sap of the iLala Palm Hyphaene coriacea to make palm wine known locally as iNjemane  

As much as 60 to 70 litres can be obtained from an average tree of which the alcohol level reaches 3.6-3.7% by volume within 36 hours. Nutritional studies have shown that the product is rich in vitamin C and nicotinic acid but its value in terms of protein, thiamin and riboflavin content is limited. It has been estimated that over I million litres of iNjemane was sold annually in the 1980's. The iNjemane is used domestically, sold or traded locally. The iNjemane can be distilled to give about a 10% yield of a rather potent spirit.

Plaited caps covering the containers collecting the sap of the iLala Palm Hyphaene coriacea to make palm wine known locally as iNjemane  

Unfortunately, the tapping process is at best semi-destructive and repeated harvesting eventually kills the iLala Palm. Apart from the physical decapitation, plants are often burnt to stimulate sap secretion. This industry is having a negative impact on the plant population numbers in Maputaland. A further complication is that the large but limited plant resource is leading to a clash of interest between the leaf harvesters and the wine tappers.

Palm Milk

The liquid, or 'milk' from the immature seed is used as a drink that has the flavour and colour of coconut milk

Propagation

The iLala palm is not well known horticulturally, only a few botanical gardens and private collectors have it as something of a curiosity. Although relatively slow growing, it is an ideal plant for a dramatic effect and will do well in any sunny well-drained site in a frost-free tropical or subtropical area.

As a qualified and experienced horticulturist and landscape designer I encourage all that have suitably large properties and live along the KwaZulu-Natal coast to plant one or more of these magnificent palms in their garden. These palms do prefer growing in alluvial sands.

For own use the easiest way to establish this palm is to plant mature seeds directly into the ground where one wants to have the palms. Prepare a hole with a little compost then simply place 4-6 seeds the seeds on the ground on their sides and lightly press them into the soil leaving the seed clearly visible. Water daily and within no time at all they will sprout.

Young iLala palms Hyphaene coriacea

The seed of Hyphaene coriacea requires high temperatures to initiate germination so keep the seeds until the beginning of summer before planting. Place the seeds in containers in a well-drained medium in a sunny position. Do not allow the soil to dry out or become too wet. Germination can take place within 2 weeks, and requires only one week for the seedling radicle to establish in the medium below the seed. A germination rate of 66% has been attained within 3 weeks

The seedling radicle rapidly sinks itself into the medium and is very brittle. At this stage the seedlings can be carefully potted out individually into larger pots to accommodate the vigorous root system. Keep the plants in full sun at all stages.

If you do buy a young plant or grow one in a bag, take care not to injure the massive taproot when transplanting.

Conservation Status

This common and widespread palm neither needs nor receives protection. Moll (1972) estimated the population in Kwazulu-Natal alone at over 10 000 000 individuals.

Guided excursions

Guided excursions in English, Zulu and German into the eMalangeni Forest and surrounding area including the nearby Tembe Elephant Park can be arranged. Please visit my websites for contact details.

Michael Hickman

06.04.21

Please visit my websites at

www.ecoman.co.za

www.hlem.co.za

as well as my other blogs at

http://luthulienvironment.blogspot.com/ 

http://ecomandurban.blogspot.com/

http://ecoman.co.za/projects/emalangeni.html

https://www.hlem.co.za/emalangeni.html

Microsorum punctatum Fern eMalangeni Forest

Microsorum punctatum Climbing bird's nest fern or Fishtail fern

The majestic epiphytic fern Microsorum punctatum is found growing as an epiphyte on many of the tall mature trees in the eMalangeni Forest where it is probably the most noticed and numerous epiphyte growing in the forest. Microsorum punctatum adds structure to the forest and gives it a lush tropical appearance.

The majestic fern Microsorum punctatum, known world wide as the Climbing bird's nest fern or Fishtail fern growing as an epiphyte in the eMalangeni Forest in the Kosi Bay Complex north east South Africa

 

Description

Microsorum punctatum has a short, creeping rhizome up to 4 mm in diameter and is covered with a thick felt of roots. The fronds are short-stalked and up to 10 mm apart. The narrowly elliptic lamina is simple, and up to 1500 x 110 mm. It has a thin leathery texture and is minutely pitted. The sori are about 1 mm in diameter and are irregularly scattered on the under surface of the lamina. The specific name punctatum refers to the minutely pitted or dotted nature of the lamina.

A close up view of the root mat developed by the majestic fern Microsorum punctatum, known world wide as the Climbing bird's nest fern or Fishtail fern growing as an epiphyte in the eMalangeni Forest 

Distribution

Microsorum punctatum is widespread in the temperate and tropical parts of the Old World, occurring from the Pacific islands, Malesia, tropical Asia and southern China to India, Madagascar and Africa. In Africa it occurs from West Africa through central to tropical East Africa to the east coast of South Africa as far south as Port St Johns. Microsorum punctatum is a predominantly low-altitude species occurring from near sea level to 1 500 m.

Habitat

In South Africa Microsorum punctatum occurs mostly in hot and humid swamp and coastal forests, ranging from near sea level to approximately 750 m. The region experiences a seasonal rainfall of more than 1 000 mm per annum. Microsorum punctatum grows mostly as an epiphyte on trees, often high above the ground in evergreen forests, mostly in deep shade. They rarely occur on the ground and when on the ground usually as a lithophyte.

Microsorum punctatum, known world wide as the Climbing bird's nest fern or Fishtail fern growing as an epiphyte in the eMalangeni Forest 

Cultivation.

Microsorum punctatum is one of the easiest ferns to grow, which is grown extensively in many countries as a pot plant and garden plant where it is known as Climbing bird's nest fern or Fishtail fern with many exotic looking horticultural cultivars having been produced.

Microsorum punctatum seedlings growing indoors

Microsorum punctatum is ideal for cultivation both indoors as well as in the garden provided that it is planted in deep shade, never exposed to direct sunlight and kept moist at all times. When they receive too much sunlight, they turn yellow and develop burnt sections on the fronds. When grown indoors increased humidity is beneficial. The species is best cultivated in a well-drained humus-rich medium kept moist at all times. A good well drained growing medium can be made out of equal parts of coarse composted bark, charcoal and chopped coconut husk.

Traditional uses

A tea is made Microsorum punctatum and taken for coughing fits. The leaf sap has also been reported to be used as an enema.

Extracts from the leaves have demonstrated anti-bacterial activity.

Guided excursions

Guided excursions in English, Zulu and German into the eMalangeni Forest and surrounding area including the nearby Tembe Elephant Park can be arranged. Please visit my websites for contact details.

Michael Hickman

02.04.21

please visit my websites at 

www.ecoman.co.za 

www.hlem.co.za 

as well as my other blogs at

http://luthulienvironment.blogspot.com/ 

http://ecomandurban.blogspot.com/

http://ecoman.co.za/projects/emalangeni.html

https://www.hlem.co.za/emalangeni.html

Geophila repens found growing in the eMalangeni Forest

Geophila repens commonly known as Snake Pennywort

Another rare plant has been added to the long list of plants that are rare in South Africa that are to found growing in the eMalangeni Forest at Kosi Bay.

Leaves and stems of Snake Pennywort Geophila repens 

On the 19 March 2021 while walking in the eMalangeni Forest at Kosi Bay I saw a most attractive small creeping herb growing in a dense colony on the forest floor that was unknown to me. Little did I know at the time that this plant had only been discovered growing in South Africa in 2008 growing in a small dense colony in the Ngoye forest. See sanbi Red List of South African Plants http://redlist.sanbi.org/species.php?species=7623-4

Little did I know at the time that here in the eMalangeni forest is only the second location in South Africa where this rare plant in South Africa has been seen growing.

Here is a video taken with my mobile phone at the location that I discovered Geophila repens

On my return to Durban I spent much time attempting to identify this plant without success eventually turning to the always very helpful friend and colleague Prof. Dr. Neil Crouch at the KZN Herbarium in Durban for help. Within minutes Prof. Crouch returned my query with the identification of this plant that had eluded me for over a week. Below are two photos kindly given to me by Prof.Crouch of plants collected in the Ngoye Forest for me to post on this blog.

Unfortunately the flower of this Geophila repens is old and nearly closed 

Here is a really nice photo of the fruit and the underside of the leaves of Geophila repens

Once I had a name for this delightful little herb in the coffee family Rubiaceae I was able to search the internet to look for information regarding this plant that is so rare in our region. I discovered that although it is rare in our region it has a pantropical distribution. I also discovered it has antioxidant, antibacterial and fungicidal properties. US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6151674/

I believe that his plant has tremendous potential to be grown as a shade loving ground cover in the hot humid coastal regions of KwaZulu-Natal as well as a pot plant, both options I will be investigating.

When I have photos of flowers and fruits I will post them, in the mean time please google Geophila repens for images.

Guided excursions

Guided excursions in English, Zulu and German into the eMalangeni Forest and surrounding area including the nearby Tembe Elephant Park can be arranged. Please visit my websites for contact details.

written by Michael Hickman

31.03.21

please visit my websites www.ecoman.co.za and www.hlem.co.za 

as well as my other blogs at

http://luthulienvironment.blogspot.com/ 

 http://ecomandurban.blogspot.com/

http://ecoman.co.za/projects/emalangeni.html

https://www.hlem.co.za/emalangeni.html