Origin
Campylospermum vogelii (Hook.f.) Farron var. costatum (Tiegh.) Farron, also known as African black plum, is a tropical plant that is native to West Africa, specifically Nigeria, Senegal, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, and Cameroon. It can be found in a range of habitats, including forests, savannas, and riverbanks.
Common Names
Aside from African black plum, Campylospermum vogelii var. costatum is also known by other common names, such as ironplum, Atili, and Kayeye. In Nigeria, it is referred to as ogede or African velvet tamarind. In Senegal, it is called djekra-khoto, and in Cameroon, it is known as aloa.
Uses
Campylospermum vogelii var. costatum is valued for both its edible and medicinal properties. Its fruit is edible and has a sweet-sour taste, making it a popular snack in West Africa. The fruit is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including malaria, toothaches, and diarrhea. The bark and leaves of the tree are also used for medicinal purposes.
In addition, the wood of Campylospermum vogelii var. costatum is durable and water-resistant, making it suitable for constructing boats, furniture, and other wooden items.
General Appearance
Campylospermum vogelii var. costatum is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall. It has a straight trunk and a rounded crown. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a leathery texture and a distinctive veining pattern. The flowers are small and yellow, and the fruit is a hard, woody capsule that contains several edible seeds.
Overall, Campylospermum vogelii var. costatum is a valuable tree that has many uses in West African culture, from food to medicine to construction. Its hardy nature and adaptability to a range of habitats make it an important species for both humans and the environment.
Light Requirements
Campylospermum vogelii var. costatum typically grows best under full sunlight. This plant requires around six hours of direct sunlight per day. While it can tolerate some shade, too much shade can cause the plant to grow weak and spindly.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm and humid conditions. It grows best in temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Temperature plays an important role in the growth of this plant, as the ideal temperature range allows for optimal photosynthesis, nutrient absorption, and growth.
Soil Requirements
Campylospermum vogelii var. costatum prefers well-draining and fertile soils. The plant can grow in soils that are slightly acidic, neutral, or slightly alkaline. It prefers sandy loam or sandy clay loam soils, but it can also grow in soils with lower water-holding capacities, as long as the soil is well-drained. The plant is also tolerant of salt stresses, making it suitable for cultivation in coastal areas with high salt content in soils.
Cultivation Method
Campylopermum vogelii (Hook.f.) Farron var. costatum (Tiegh.) Farron, commonly known as African blackwood or mpingo, is a small to medium-sized tree. The plant prefers tropical and subtropical climates. The ideal soil for mpingo is sandy soil, which is well-drained and slightly acidic. The tree does well in high rainfall areas, but it can also grow in areas that experience seasonal dryness.
The plant grows best in areas with temperatures between 18 to 28°C. The tree requires full sunlight to grow optimally, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The seedlings should be planted in holes that are twice the size of their root balls. The seedlings should be spaced 3 to 5 meters apart.
Watering Needs
The African blackwood tree requires consistent watering, especially during the first year of growth. The plant should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the climate and rainfall. Ensure that the soil around the tree remains moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can damage the tree and even kill it.
Fertilization
The African blackwood tree does not require much fertilization. However, incorporating organic matter such as compost and manure into the soil can help improve the nutrient content of the soil. The tree can also benefit from the application of balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Fertilizer can be applied to the base of the plant, but care should be taken not to spill it onto the leaves or stems, as this can cause damage.
Pruning
Pruning can be done to shape the tree and improve its overall health and appearance. Pruning should be done during the tree's dormant season, which is usually in winter. Dead, diseased, or damaged parts of the tree should be removed using sharp, sterilized equipment. Pruning should be done selectively to avoid overpruning, which can lead to stunted growth and reduced fruit production. As the tree grows, it is important to prune to maintain its shape.
Propagation of Campylospermum vogelii (Hook.f.) Farron var. costatum (Tiegh.) Farron
There are several methods for propagating Campylospermum vogelii (Hook.f.) Farron var. costatum (Tiegh.) Farron, and the most common ones are through seeds, cuttings, and root suckers.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the most common and easiest method. Seeds are usually collected from mature plants and sown immediately or stored in a dark, cool, and dry place for later use. The seeds require a pre-sowing treatment of scarification and stratification for optimal germination. Scarification can be achieved by pre-treatment with concentrated sulfuric acid for 15-20 minutes followed by washing with water. Stratification requires placing the seeds in a moist, cold environment for at least 3-4 weeks before sowing. Sowing can be done in seed trays or pots filled with well-drained soil, and the seedlings can be transplanted after 4-6 weeks.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is another viable method for Campylospermum vogelii (Hook.f.) Farron var. costatum (Tiegh.) Farron. Cuttings are usually taken from mature and healthy plants during the dormant season and treated with rooting hormones before planting. The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long and planted in well-drained soil in a shaded area. It is essential to keep the cuttings moist and avoid direct sunlight until they establish roots, which usually takes about 3-4 weeks.
Propagation through Root Suckers
Propagation through root suckers is a method whereby new shoots develop from the roots of a mature plant and can be detached and planted as new individual plants. Root suckers usually emerge naturally, but they can also be encouraged by pruning the roots and stem of the mother plant. When the root suckers reach a sufficient size, they can be carefully detached, treated with rooting hormones, and replanted in well-drained soil. It is important to ensure that the new plants are well-watered and shaded until they become well established.
Disease Management
Campylospermum vogelii var. costatum is usually resistant to most common diseases. However, there are some fungal and bacterial diseases that can affect the plant, such as anthracnose, powdery mildew, and leaf spots.
To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain proper sanitation practices. Remove and destroy any infected plant material, and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of fungal spores. Fungicides and bactericides can also be used to control the pathogens, but it is important to use them cautiously and according to label instructions to avoid injuring the plant.
Pest Management
There are several pests that can attack Campylospermum vogelii var. costatum, including mealybugs, scales, thrips, and spider mites. These pests can cause damage to the leaves, stem, and roots of the plant.
To manage these pests, it is important to regularly monitor the plant for signs of infestation. Early detection is crucial as it allows for prompt action to prevent the infestation from spreading. Physical control methods such as handpicking and pruning can be effective for small-scale infestation. Insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, and neem oil can also be used to control the pests. Again, it is important to use them according to label instructions to avoid harming the plant.
To prevent future infestations, it is recommended to keep the area surrounding the plant clean and free of debris. Over-fertilization and over-watering should be avoided as they can attract pests and weaken the plant. Additionally, planting companion plants that repel pests, such as marigolds or lavender, can help to reduce pest infestations.
