Origin of Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken
Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken is a shrub commonly found in southern Africa. It is native to South Africa, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe, but can also be found in Namibia and Mozambique. It grows in low altitudes and can be seen in savannas and woodlands.
Common Names of Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken
Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken is commonly known as the "Num-Num" tree in South Africa. It is also called "Lorris" in Zimbabwe and "Umdoni" in Swaziland.
Uses of Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken
Various parts of the Num-Num tree are used for medicinal purposes. The bark of the tree is known for its antimicrobial properties and is commonly used to treat influenza, fungal infections, and other ailments. The fruit is edible and can be eaten raw or used to make jelly. It is also used in traditional medicine to treat stomach ailments.
General Appearance of Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken
Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken is a small to medium-sized shrub that can grow up to 5 meters in height. It has green leaves that are oval-shaped and glossy. The flowers are white and fragrant, and they produce a red to orange fruit. The fruit is oblong in shape and can grow up to 3 cm in length. The bark of the tree is grey-brown and rough to the touch.
Growth Conditions for Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken
Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken, also known as the Wild Garlic bush, is a semi-deciduous shrub native to southern Africa. It grows well in warm and dry climates and, given the right conditions, can reach a height of up to 6 meters. Below are some of the typical growth conditions for Capparis fascicularis.
Light Requirements
Capparis fascicularis prefers full sun to partial shade. In its natural habitat, it often grows as an understory species, but it can also thrive in open areas. When grown in partial shade, it may have fewer flowers, and its growth rate might be slower than when grown in full sun.
Temperature Requirements
Capparis fascicularis can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it grows best in warm and dry conditions. It can withstand temperatures as low as -2 °C and as high as 40 °C. However, prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can be detrimental to the plant's health, so it is best to grow it in an area with a stable temperature.
Soil Requirements
The Wild Garlic bush prefers well-drained soils that are slightly acidic to neutral. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant is relatively drought-tolerant, but it will benefit from regular watering during the dry season. Like most plants, it can't tolerate waterlogged soils, so ensure that the soil has adequate drainage.
Cultivation methods for Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken
Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken is a hardy plant that grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. It requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can be propagated by seeds or cuttings, which should be planted in spring or early summer.
Ensure the planting area is free from weeds, and mulch the soil to retain moisture and keep the roots cool. The plant needs full sun exposure to thrive, and it can tolerate moderate shade but fruits less under such conditions.
Watering needs of Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken
Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. The plant should be watered deeply, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering causes root damage and fungal infections.
During the hot summer months, the soil around the plant must be kept consistently moist. However, in winter, reduce watering since the plant is dormant and does not require as much moisture.
Fertilization of Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken
Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken requires regular fertilization to supply the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and fruit production. Apply a slow-release fertilizer with a balanced N-P-K ratio of 8-8-8 or 10-10-10 in spring and summer.
Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers like compost or well-rotted manure to provide the required nutrients. Apply the organic fertilizer once a year in the spring.
Pruning of Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken
Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken requires minimal pruning, which should be done during the winter dormant period. Remove any weak or dead branches, and trim back overly long branches to encourage the growth of new shoots and fruits.
If the plant is becoming too large or leggy, prune after the fruiting season to shape it. Avoid heavy pruning as it reduces fruit production.
Propagation of Capparis fascicularis var. zeyheri
Capparis fascicularis var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken, commonly known as "wild custard apple," is a woody shrub that is native to Southern Africa. It can be propagated through various methods including:
Seed propagation
Seeds can be collected from fruits that are fully matured and have turned yellow. The seeds should be removed from the fruit and washed with water to remove any pulp or debris. Once cleaned, the seeds can be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat. After soaking, the seeds can be sown directly into the soil or in a propagating mix. It is important to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, until the seedlings emerge.
Cuttings propagation
Capparis fascicularis var. zeyheri can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem that is at least 15cm long and has several nodes. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining propagating mix and keep them in a warm, humid environment. It usually takes about 4-6 weeks for the cuttings to root.
Grafting propagation
Grafting is another method of propagating Capparis fascicularis var. zeyheri. It involves joining a piece of stem from the desired variety (scion) onto a rootstock of a different variety. The scion should be collected from a healthy mother plant, while the rootstock can be selected from a plant with strong root system. The two pieces should be joined together and wrapped with grafting tape or parafilm. The grafted plant should be kept in a warm, humid environment until it establishes.
Disease Management
The Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken is susceptible to various diseases that can harm the plant and reduce its yield. Some of the common diseases that can affect this plant are:
- Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It can cause yellowing of leaves, wilting, and plant death. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid over-watering the plant.
- Powdery mildew: This is a common fungal disease that affects many plants, including the Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken. It manifests as a white powdery substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. Pruning affected parts, application of fungicides and increasing airflow around the plant can help manage powdery mildew.
- Bacterial spot: This disease causes small, irregularly shaped dark spots on the leaves, stems, and fruit of the plant. To manage bacterial spot, remove and destroy infected plant parts, avoid overhead watering, and apply preventive bactericides.
- Anthracnose: This disease causes brown, sunken lesions on the fruit and leaves of the plant. Removal and destruction of infected plant parts and application of fungicides can help control anthracnose.
Pest Management
Capparis fascicularis DC. var. zeyheri (Turcz.) Toelken may also be attacked by various pests that cause damage to the plant and reduce its yield. Some of the common pests that can affect this plant are:
- Aphids: These are small insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing wilting and yellowing. There are many insecticides that can be used to manage aphids.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars feed on the plant's leaves and can cause defoliation. Handpicking and the application of Bacillus thuringiensis can be effective in managing caterpillars.
- Scales: These insects attach themselves to the plant's leaves and stems and suck sap, causing yellowing and wilting. Pruning of affected plant parts and the use of horticultural oils can help manage scales.
- Spider mites: These pests are known to create silky webs and can damage the plant's leaves. Neem oil and insecticidal soap can be used to manage spider mites. Also, maintaining a high humidity level around the plant can discourage spider mites invasion.
