Origin
Atroxima gossweileri Exell, commonly known as Gossweiler's Devil Tree, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Annonaceae. The plant species is native to the tropical rainforests of Africa, specifically in Cameroon, Gabon, Congo and Central African Republic.
Common Names
Gossweiler's Devil Tree is also known by other common names such as, African devil tree, Gossweiler's attroxima and wild custard apple.
Uses
The Gossweiler's Devil Tree has no significant commercial use, nor is it known for its medicinal properties. However, certain indigenous populations in Africa use the stem, bark, and leaves of the tree for treating wounds and other skin infections.
General Appearance
The Gossweiler's Devil Tree is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 15 meters in height. The tree has a slender trunk with a diameter of about 15 cm. The leaves of the tree are alternate, simple and oblong-shaped, measuring up to 20 cm in length and 10 cm in width. The flowers of the tree are small and greenish-yellow in color, while the fruits are egg-shaped, about 3-4 cm in diameter, and have a reddish-brown outer surface. The bark of Gossweiler's attroxima is dark brown and has deep longitudinal ridges running lengthwise along the trunk.
Light Requirements
Atroxima gossweileri Exell thrives well in areas that receive a lot of bright, indirect light. However, exposing the plant to direct sunlight for an extended period may damage the leaves due to scorching.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature for Atroxima gossweileri Exell ranges from 60°F to 75°F. Consider keeping the plant away from cold drafts and cool temperatures below 50°F, as it may wither and eventually die. High temperatures above 90°F can also be detrimental to the plant's growth.
Soil Requirements
Atroxima gossweileri Exell grows best in a well-draining soil mixture that is rich in organic matter. A medium with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal for the plant's growth. It would be best to avoid heavy soils that retain moisture as they can cause root rot that can be fatal to the plant. Consider adding perlite or sand to the soil mixture to improve the drainage.
Cultivation methods for Atroxima gossweileri Exell
Atroxima gossweileri Exell is a plant native to tropical Africa and thrives in warm temperatures and high humidity environments. It can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
The plant should be grown in well-draining soil with organic matter added to improve soil fertility. It should also be placed under partial shade to protect it from direct sunlight and dry air.
Watering needs for Atroxima gossweileri Exell
The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
During the dry season, the plant may require more frequent watering to prevent wilting. However, reduce the frequency of watering during the rainy season to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization of Atroxima gossweileri Exell
To promote healthy growth, it is recommended to fertilize the plant twice a year using a balanced fertilizer. The first fertilization should be done at the beginning of the growing season, and the second one towards the end.
Apply the fertilizer evenly around the plant, and water it to facilitate absorption. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.
Pruning of Atroxima gossweileri Exell
Regular pruning is essential to keep the plant in shape, promote bushier growth, and increase flower production.
It is recommended to prune the plant during the dormant season, cutting back any dead or diseased branches and removing any straggly growth. You can also prune to control the plant's height and width.
Clean pruning tools before and after use to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Atroxima gossweileri Exell
Atroxima gossweileri Exell is a beautiful ornamental plant that can be propagated by different techniques. The propagation methods that can be used to reproduce Atroxima gossweileri Exell include:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common method used to propagate Atroxima gossweileri Exell. The seeds should be collected when mature, cleaned and sown immediately onto seedbeds. Germination takes 7 to 14 days depending on the environmental conditions. The ideal temperature for germination is around 20°C.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings are another viable method for propagating Atroxima gossweileri Exell. Stem cuttings of about 10 cm long are taken from healthy plants and dipped in rooting hormones. The cuttings are planted in suitable potting mix and placed in a humid environment with bright, indirect light. Rooting usually takes about 6 - 8 weeks.
Division Propagation
Division is the easiest method for getting multiple Atroxima gossweileri Exell plants from a single plant. The plant is carefully lifted from the soil and divided into smaller sections. Each section should have a healthy root system and shoot. The divided plants should then be replanted in suitable potting mix.
Tissue Culture Propagation
Tissue culture is a more advanced propagation technique that involves the use of specialized laboratory equipment. This method involves the culture of small pieces of plant tissue in a nutrient-rich medium, under sterile conditions. The plants produced from tissue culture are disease-free and genetically identical to the parent plant.
Whichever method is used, it is important to maintain proper growing conditions to ensure the successful establishment of your propagated Atroxima gossweileri Exell plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Atroxima gossweileri Exell
Atroxima gossweileri Exell, commonly known as the African purplewood, is a tropical tree that is native to Central and West Africa. Like any other plant, it is vulnerable to certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and productivity.
Common Diseases
One of the diseases that can affect Atroxima gossweileri Exell is root rot. This is caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil, which can lead to the roots becoming waterlogged and succumbing to fungal infections. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is grown in a well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Another disease that can affect the African purplewood is leaf spot. This is characterized by the appearance of brown spots on the leaves, which can result in defoliation and stunted growth. Leaf spot is caused by fungal infections and can be managed by removing infected leaves and applying a fungicide to the plant.
Common Pests
Atroxima gossweileri Exell can be affected by pests such as mites and scales. These pests feed on the plant's sap, which can result in yellowed or wilted leaves, stunted growth, and plant death. To manage pest infestations, regular inspection of the plant is important in order to detect the infestation early. Pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars can also be a problem for African purplewoods. These pests feed on the leaves, which can result in extensive defoliation and reduced growth. To manage caterpillar infestations, physically remove the caterpillars and apply a biological or chemical insecticide.
Overall, managing diseases and pests in Atroxima gossweileri Exell requires a combination of preventive measures such as ensuring proper growing conditions, and prompt control measures such as removing infected leaves or using insecticides when necessary. With proper care, the African purplewood can thrive and be an ornamental addition to any garden or landscape.
