Overview
Artabotrys concolor Pellegr. is a tropical plant that belongs to the family Annonaceae, which is characterized by their aromatic and flavor compounds. The plant is native to Central and West Africa and is mainly found in Liberia, Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo. The plant is a vine whose stem can grow up to 15 meters long, climbing up trees and other vegetation in the forest.
Common Names
Artabotrys concolor Pellegr. is known by different common names in different regions. In Gabon, it is locally known as "yangalala," while in Cameroon, it is known as "mbokolo." In Liberia, it is referred to as "bush mango," and in Congo, it is called "nkaka."
Uses
The fruit of Artabotrys concolor Pellegr. has a sweet, aromatic flavor and is edible. In some regions, the fruit is used as a spice to flavor dishes and also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, malaria, and stomach disorders. The bark and roots of the plant are also used in traditional medicine to treat dysentery, rheumatism, and skin infections. Additionally, various parts of the plant are used for pest control.
General Appearance
The plant's leaves are simple and alternate, with a length of about 4-12 cm and a width of 1.5-7 cm. The flowers of Artabotrys concolor Pellegr. are pale yellow, and their shape is similar to a star, with a diameter of about 2-3 cm. The fruit of the plant is a cylindrical berry that grows up to 5 cm long and 2 cm wide. The fruit is green when young, turning yellow when ripe.
Growth Conditions for Artabotrys Concolor Pellegr
Artabotrys concolor Pellegr. is a rare evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 8 m tall. This plant is native to West and Central Africa, particularly in regions of Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and Congo.
Light
Artabotrys concolor Pellegr. prefers partial shade to full shade for optimal growth. However, it can tolerate some amount of direct sunlight exposure, especially in the morning and evening hours. When grown indoors, it should be placed near a window that provides adequate filtered light.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Artabotrys concolor Pellegr. is between 20-30°C (68-86°F). It is sensitive to cold temperatures and should be protected from frost. This plant cannot tolerate temperatures below 15°C (59°F) and it is important to grow it in a warm spot.
Soil Requirements
Artabotrys concolor Pellegr. prefers well-drained, fertile, and moist soils. The soil should be acidic to slightly acidic in pH, with a range between 5.5-6.5. This plant can grow in various soil types, including sandy loam, loam, and clay loam soils. It should be grown in a soil mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and sand.
To ensure proper growth, the plant should be mulched with organic matter or manure to retain moisture and promote healthy soil organisms.
Additionally, this plant requires regular watering, especially during dry seasons. This will help to maintain the soil moisture content and prevent water stress. Overwatering should be avoided since it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation
The Artabotrys concolor Pellegr., also known as the Ylang-ylang vine, grows well in a tropical climate. It requires warm temperatures between 75°F to 85°F and high humidity levels. You can grow the plant from seeds or stem cuttings. To grow from seeds, sow them in a well-drained soil mixture and ensure they receive adequate moisture and warmth. As for stem cuttings, plant them in a pot or directly in the ground and keep the soil moist.
Watering Needs
The Ylang-ylang vine requires frequent watering to maintain high humidity levels. It is crucial to keep the soil moist but avoid waterlogging as it can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering depends on several factors such as the temperature and humidity levels. You can use a moisture meter or touch method to determine when to water the plant.
Fertilization
The plant requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and abundant blooms. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The frequency of fertilizing depends on the growth rate of the plant, but you can apply it every two to four weeks during the growing season. Avoid overfertilizing as it may lead to weak growth and fewer blooms.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of caring for the Ylang-ylang vine as it promotes healthy growth and keeps the plant in shape. Prune the plant after it has finished flowering to remove dead, damaged, or diseased parts. You can also prune to control the size and shape of the plant. Use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid injuring the plant.
Propagation of Artabotrys concolor Pellegr.
Artabotrys concolor Pellegr. can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds should be collected from mature fruits. Remove the seeds from the pulp and wash them to remove any remaining pulp. Seeds can then be sown directly into well-draining soil or into seed trays. Germination usually occurs within 1-3 months if kept in a warm, humid environment. Transplant seedlings into individual containers once they have developed their second set of true leaves.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings of Artabotrys concolor Pellegr. can be taken from semi-hardwood stems. Cut a 8-10 cm long stem section, remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the stem in a well-draining medium and keep it in a warm, humid environment. Water the cutting sparingly until new growth appears. Once the cutting has developed a root system, it can be transplanted into individual containers for further growth.
Propagation by Air Layering
Air layering can be used to propagate Artabotrys concolor Pellegr. from an existing plant. Select a healthy stem and make a small cut through the bark about one-third of the way around the stem. Apply rooting hormone to the cut area and cover it with a moist, well-draining medium such as sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it with twine. Keep the moss moist and wait for roots to appear through the plastic wrap. Once roots have developed, cut the stem below the rooted section and plant it in individual containers.
Disease and Pest Management for Artabotrys concolor Pellegr.
Artabotrys concolor Pellegr. is a hardy plant species that can survive in various environments. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can threaten its growth and vitality. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal leaf spot: This disease is characterized by small, dark spots on the leaves. Fungal spores can spread rapidly in humid conditions and cause severe damage to the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and apply a fungicide to the remaining foliage. Avoid overhead irrigation and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Root rot: Overwatering and poorly drained soils can cause root rot, which can lead to plant death. The affected plant shows symptoms such as yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Remove and discard infected plants and soil and disinfect gardening tools before using them on other plants.
Pests
Mites: Mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to yellow and drop. A heavily-infested plant may show signs of webbing and stunted growth. To manage mites, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs or lacewings to help control mite populations.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, cotton-like insects that feed on plant sap and excrete a substance called honeydew that attracts ants. The plant may show symptoms such as stunted growth, yellowing leaves and wilting. To manage mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them from the leaves. Alternatively, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By monitoring Artabotrys concolor Pellegr. regularly for signs of disease and pests, promptly taking the appropriate measures when they are present, and providing the plant with adequate environmental conditions, you can keep it healthy and thriving.
