Overview
Carissa edulis (Forssk.) Vahl forma pubescens (A.DC.) Pichon, commonly known as "Amatungulu" or "Wild Medlar," is a fruit-bearing plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. This plant is native to Africa and is commonly found in countries such as South Africa, Sudan, Ethiopia, and Tanzania.
Appearance
The Carissa edulis forma pubescens is a small tree or large shrub that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It has a dense, spreading canopy and produces leaves, which are glossy, dark green, and about 5-8 cm long. This plant's flowers are cream-colored and have a distinct fragrance that attracts bees and other pollinators.
After flowering, the plant produces oval-shaped fruits that are about the size of a cherry. These fruits are green when unripe, turning orange or red when they are ripe. The fruits have a tough skin and contain soft, juicy, and slightly acidic pulp, which is known for its sweet, tarty, and refreshing flavor.
Uses
The Carissa edulis forma pubescens is a valuable plant with multiple uses in traditional medicine, cuisine, and industry. In traditional medicine, the plant's roots, leaves, and fruits are used to treat various ailments such as stomach disorders, dental problems, and respiratory infections.
The plant's fruits are commonly eaten raw, cooked, or processed into drinks, jams, and sauces. The fruit's pulp is also used to make a refreshing and healthy juice that is rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
The plant's wood is hard and durable, making it an excellent material for making furniture, tool handles, and carvings. The plant's thorns and dense foliage also make it an ideal hedge or fence plant for security purposes.
In conclusion
The Carissa edulis forma pubescens is a valuable plant that offers numerous benefits in different sectors. Besides being a delicious and healthy fruit, the plant's medicinal properties, wood, and thorns make it a critical resource in traditional medicine, industry, and security.
Growth Conditions for Carissa edulis (Forssk.) Vahl forma pubescens (A.DC.) Pichon
Light Requirements: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. In areas with intense heat, partial shade is recommended to prevent leaf scorching. If the plant is grown indoors, it should be placed in a bright location with access to indirect sunlight.
Temperature Requirements: This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions and prefers warm temperatures between 68-86 °F (20-30 °C). The plant may not survive if exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C), so it is essential to protect it from frost during winter months.
Soil Requirements: This plant prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5. A combination of loamy and sandy soil is recommended. The plant may not thrive in heavy clay soils, so it may be beneficial to amend with organic matter.
Watering Requirements: This plant requires regular watering during the growing season, about once a week. However, the plant is drought-tolerant, so it can handle periods of dry conditions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to ensure the soil dries out slightly between waterings.
Fertilizer Requirements: This plant requires regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season, about once a month. It is recommended to use a fertilizer with higher levels of phosphorus and potassium and lower levels of nitrogen. Excessive nitrogen can lead to leaf growth at the expense of flower and fruit production.
Pruning Requirements: This plant benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote new growth. Pruning should be done after flowering, and dead or damaged branches should be removed.
Cultivation of Carissa Edulis
Carissa edulis is a native to Southern Africa and it requires warm temperatures for optimal growth. When deciding where to plant this plant, choose a spot that has full sunlight exposure for at least 6 hours daily.
Watering needs of Carissa Edulis
Carissa edulis prefers well-draining soil, and it should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. However, make sure not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot. Water once a week, or more during the hotter months.
Fertilization of Carissa Edulis
Fertilize Carissa edulis during the growing season, typically in the spring and summer. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packet regarding quantity and frequency.
Pruning of Carissa Edulis
Prune the plant to maintain its shape in early spring before new growth appears. Remove dead or damaged branches and any growth that is crossing over other branches.
Propagation of Carissa edulis (Forssk.) Vahl forma pubescens (A.DC.) Pichon
Carissa edulis (Forssk.) Vahl forma pubescens (A.DC.) Pichon can be propagated through various methods that include:
Seed Propagation
Seeds can be collected from ripe fruit pods in the late summer or early autumn. Sow the seeds immediately in a well-draining soil mixture. Plant the seeds at a depth of about 1 inch and keep the soil moist but not too wet. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks. After germination, thin out the seedlings, and move them into individual containers as soon as they develop their second set of leaves.
Cuttings
Softwood cuttings are taken from the tender stems in the spring, while semi-hardwood cuttings can be made in late summer. Cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and should have a minimum of three leaves. Take cuttings from the tip of a stem and make the cut straight across just below a node. Remove the lower two leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix and keep the soil moist. After rooting, move the cuttings into individual containers.
Air layering
Air layering is another propagation method that is commonly used for Carissa edulis (Forssk.) Vahl forma pubescens (A.DC.) Pichon. Air layering is performed by making a cut at the base of a stem on a mature plant and then packing it with sphagnum moss. The section is then wrapped in plastic to retain moisture. Roots will eventually develop from the cut area. After roots have developed, cut the rooted section from the main plant and plant it in a well-draining mix.
Disease Management
Carissa edulis forma pubescens is generally a sturdy plant that is not prone to diseases if it is grown in the right conditions. However, there are a few diseases that can affect the plant:
Leaf spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that is characterized by small, circular spots on the leaves. The spots may start out small but can grow in size and number over time, eventually causing the leaves to wilt and fall off. To manage this disease, it is best to remove the affected leaves and dispose of them properly. Additionally, it is important to avoid overcrowding the plant and to ensure good air circulation around the leaves to prevent the disease from spreading.
Root rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that is caused by overwatering and poor soil drainage. The plant may show symptoms such as yellowing leaves that eventually wilt and fall off. To prevent root rot, it is essential to make sure that the soil is well-drained and not waterlogged. Also, it is crucial to avoid overwatering the plant and to let the soil dry out between waterings.
Pest Management
Carissa edulis forma pubescens is not a plant that is commonly attacked by pests. However, some pests may still try to feed on the plant. Here are some pests that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that feed on the plant's sap. They can cause the leaves to curl and turn yellow, and the plant may eventually die if the infestation is severe. To manage mealybugs, it is best to remove them manually using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Alternatively, a solution of water and dish soap or neem oil can be used to spray the affected parts of the plant.
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can cause damage to the plant's leaves by sucking their sap. They may cause the leaves to become yellow or stippled, and the plant may eventually lose its leaves. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to keep the air around the plant humid by misting it regularly. Additionally, a solution of water and dish soap can be used to spray the affected parts of the plant.
Overall, it is essential to maintain good plant hygiene and to inspect the plant regularly to prevent the occurrence of diseases and pests. With proper management and care, Carissa edulis forma pubescens can thrive and add beauty to any garden or landscape.
