Overview
Capparis acutissima Gilg & Gilg-Ben. is a plant species belonging to the family Capparaceae. It is commonly known by the names of 'Batoko Plum' or 'Nape cactus'. This plant is indigenous to tropical Africa and Madagascar.
Appearance
Capparis acutissima is a small, shrubby plant that can reach up to 2.5 meters in height. The leaves of the plant are simple and elliptic, with a length of up to 15 cm. The flowers have four white petals and a diameter of up to 5 cm. The fruit of the plant is a globose berry, up to 3 cm in diameter, with a hard shell and a bitter taste.
Uses
Capparis acutissima is a popular plant among local communities in tropical Africa and Madagascar, mainly because of the variety of uses it has. The fruit, for example, is edible and is commonly used to make jams and marmalades. The bark of the plant contains a decoction that is used for medicinal purposes. The leaves are also used as a source of food for livestock.
This plant is also used for landscaping purposes and can be grown as a hedge or as an ornamental plant, due to its lush, green foliage and attractive flowers.
Light Requirements
Capparis acutissima Gilg & Gilg-Ben., commonly known as Cape Caper, prefers full sun exposure for optimal growth and development. This plant can tolerate partial shade, but insufficient light can result in stunted growth and reduced flowering. It is essential to provide at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to ensure healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
Cape Caper is a tropical plant that thrives in warm temperatures. It prefers temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C and cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 10°C. It is essential to protect the plant from extreme temperature changes, and heating or cooling systems should be used if necessary.
Soil Requirements
The Cape Caper plant requires well-draining soils for optimal growth. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it prefers slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It is advantageous to add organic matter to the soil, such as compost or manure, to improve soil fertility and water retention.
Cultivation methods
Capparis acutissima Gilg & Gilg-Ben., commonly known as the Cape caper, can be grown in various climatic conditions. It can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or layering. If grown from seeds, they should be soaked in water for 24 hours to facilitate germination. The plant grows well in well-drained soil enriched with organic matter. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. It requires full sunlight exposure but can also be grown in partial shade. The plant can be grown in pots or directly in the ground.
Watering needs
Capparis acutissima Gilg & Gilg-Ben. requires moderate watering. Watering should be done regularly during the growing period, especially during hot and dry weather. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, to avoid root rot. Watering should be decreased during the dormant period, especially in cold and wet weather.
Fertilization
Applying fertilizer on Capparis acutissima Gilg & Gilg-Ben. encourages vigorous growth, high fruit production, and good quality. Fertilizer should be applied when the plant is actively growing, usually in spring and summer. A balanced fertilizer N-P-K (Nitrogen-Phosphorus-Potassium) should be used, with a ratio of 10:10:10 or 15:15:15. Organic fertilizers such as manure or compost can also be used. Avoid over-fertilization as it may cause root damage.
Pruning
Pruning of Capparis acutissima Gilg & Gilg-Ben. should be done during the dormant period, usually in late winter or early spring. Pruning should be done to remove damaged or dead wood, control plant size, and encourage branching. Pruning should be done using sharp and clean tools to avoid spreading diseases. It is advisable to wear gloves while pruning to protect the hands from thorns that may cause injury.
Propagation of Capparis acutissima Gilg & Gilg-Ben.
Capparis acutissima Gilg & Gilg-Ben., also known as the Cape caper, is propagated through seeds or cuttings. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method to propagate Cape capers. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining soil mix of sand and loam in a sheltered place. Germination will occur within a few weeks, and the young seedlings can then be transplanted to larger pots. However, keep in mind that seeds collected from wild sources may have low viability.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a reliable method of propagation for Cape capers. The best time to take cuttings is during the late summer or early autumn. Cuttings should be around 15-20 cm long and taken from the current year's growth. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix of sand and loam. Cuttings should be kept in a shaded area and kept moist until they establish roots.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that affect Capparis acutissima is leaf spot. This disease presents as small brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, it is important to remove any affected leaves and dispose of them properly. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent the spread of the disease to other parts of the plant.
Another disease that can affect Capparis acutissima is root rot. This disease is caused by a fungus that thrives in wet soil. To manage this disease, it is important to ensure that the plant is not sitting in standing water. If the plant is in a container, make sure there is adequate drainage. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
One of the most common pests that can affect Capparis acutissima is the aphid. These small pests feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this pest, it is important to remove any affected leaves and dispose of them properly. Insecticides can also be applied to control the population.
Another pest that can affect Capparis acutissima is the mite. These tiny pests feed on the underside of the leaves and can cause yellowing and premature drop of the leaves. To manage this pest, it is important to spray the plant with a mixture of water and soap or insecticides. It is also important to remove any affected leaves and dispose of them properly.
