River Valley Tree - KUMULONDA MWOMBE

KUMUKHULANG’WA (Briderlia micrantha)

Derivation of the Name

The name Khulonda means "to follow." Mwombe refers to the river valley. This tree typically grows along river valleys and riverbanks, hence the name kulondo kumwombe. Sometimes, it is called Kumulonda ngo’mbe, where ng’ombe means cattle. This name suggests that the tree tends to thrive in areas grazed by cattle.

Natural Habitat and Distribution in Bungoma

Habitat: This tree is found in riverine areas, forest margins, bushland, and woodland.

Distribution: It is a common species throughout the Bungoma District. You can frequently spot it along riverbanks, in grazing lands, and in woodlands. Often, it is left standing in cultivated fields.

Description

Bark: The bark is grey to black and somewhat flaky, with scattered thorns on the branches and trunk.

Leaves: The leaves are elliptic and dark glossy green on top. They have shallowly crenate margins, and the veins run parallel along the edges.

Flowers: The flowers are very small and grow in tight clusters in the leaf axils.

Fruit: The fruit is axillary, oval with a pointed apex, and turns black when ripe.

Physical Features:

• Shape: This tree can grow small to medium-sized, reaching up to 12 meters in height.

• Crown: It has a spreading crown.

• Foliage: The foliage is dense and evergreen.

  
  
  
  

Biological Features

Mulch: The tree produces good-quality mulch, as the leaves decompose quickly.

Tree/Crop Association: This tree is compatible with all types of annual crops, except for tobacco and cotton.

Biomass Production: It is a fairly fast-growing tree, although its leafy biomass production is relatively low.

Other Characteristics: The tree is termite-resistant, and its wood is durable. However, the leaves are poisonous to fish.

Reproduction: It is a prolific seeder, and seedlings are abundant.

Management: Common management practices include pollarding and coppicing.

Ecological Benefits: This tree contributes to soil improvement, soil conservation, and riverbank protection.

Tree Products and Uses

This versatile tree provides various products, including:

• Fuelwood

• Charcoal

• Poles and posts

• Fodder

• Mulch

• Tool handles

• Shade

• Intercropping

• Catching fish

  
  

Medicinal Applications

The tree has several medicinal uses:

• Leaves: Used for heartburn.

• Root: Helps with stomach-aches and malaria.

• Bark: Known as Endwasi, it is used to treat East Coast fever in cattle.

  
  
  
  

Cultural Features

Belief: The stick from this tree is traditionally used for herding cattle. It is believed that using this stick will help the animals multiply quickly, leading to an increase in their numbers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Kumukhulang’wa tree, or Briderlia micrantha, is more than just a tree; it is a vital part of the ecosystem and local culture. Its various uses, from providing shade to medicinal applications, make it an invaluable resource. By understanding and appreciating this tree, we can better connect with our environment and promote sustainable practices.

For those interested in organic and sustainably farmed products, the Kumukhulang’wa tree embodies the principles of traditional farming and ecological balance. Let's embrace these natural treasures in our quest for healthier living!