Carissa friesiorum (Markgr.) Cufod.
Carissa friesiorum is a plant commonly known as the Forest Num-num or East African carissa. It is native to Eastern Africa, specifically Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. It belongs to the family of Apocynaceae and is a small to medium-sized shrub that grows up to 5 meters in height.
General Appearance
The plant has glossy green leaves that are leathery and oval-shaped. It has a beautiful, small, fragrant white flower that blooms during the summer months, and later produces small, bright red edible fruits that are oval in shape and fleshy inside.
The Forest Num-num is a hardy plant and can tolerate drought and moderate winds. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun, but can also grow in partial shade. It is mostly propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
Uses
The Forest Num-num is widely used in traditional medicine in East African communities. The roots, bark, and leaves are used to treat a variety of ailments such as fever, headaches, and stomach pains. The plant is also believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties.
The fruit of the plant is a popular ingredient in local cuisine and is used to make jams, jellies, and sauces. The fruit's juice is also used to make refreshing drinks. The plant is also used as a natural hedge due to its dense foliage and thorny branches, and can be grown as an ornamental plant in gardens.
In conclusion, the Forest Num-num or Carissa friesiorum is an important plant in Eastern Africa with a wide range of uses. It is not only a beautiful ornamental plant but also provides food, medicine, and natural hedges, making it an essential part of East African communities.
Light Requirements
Carissa friesiorum requires bright or direct sunlight for proper growth. It is recommended to keep the plant in a location where it gets at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. Direct sunlight in the morning or evening is ideal, as intense midday sunlight can be harmful to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Carissa friesiorum is between 18 and 26 °C (64 and 79 °F). The plant can tolerate both higher and lower temperatures for short periods, but extended exposure to temperatures outside of this range can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Carissa friesiorum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix consisting of peat moss, loam, and sand in equal parts is ideal for the plant. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil, so it is important to ensure good drainage.
Cultivation methods for Carissa friesiorum (Markgr.) Cufod.
Carissa friesiorum (Markgr.) Cufod. is best grown in sandy loam or rocky well-drained soils. The plant grows best in bright sunlight but will tolerate light shade. Start by planting the seedlings about 60 cm apart, ensuring they are planted at the same depth they were in the nursery bags.
Watering needs for Carissa friesiorum (Markgr.) Cufod.
Carissa friesiorum (Markgr.) Cufod. prefers a moderate amount of water and does not tolerate waterlogging. Watering should be done twice a week or when the soil is dry to the touch. It is best to water in the early morning or late afternoon to reduce evaporation and ensure proper absorption.
Fertilization of Carissa friesiorum (Markgr.) Cufod.
Carissa friesiorum (Markgr.) Cufod. benefits greatly from regular fertilization with nitrogen-rich and phosphorus-rich fertilizers. Apply a slow-release fertilizer during planting and supplement with a balanced fertilizer every two to three months. The plant also responds well to organic compost, which can be applied to the base of the plant after pruning.
Pruning of Carissa friesiorum (Markgr.) Cufod.
Carissa friesiorum (Markgr.) Cufod. requires minimal pruning, but it can benefit from pruning to improve its shape and encourage bushiness. Prune out any dead or diseased branches as soon as possible to prevent their spread. The major pruning should be done at the beginning of spring or late winter once the plant is mature. Avoid pruning during the flowering season to prevent damage to the blooms.
Propagation of Carissa Friesiorum (Markgr.) Cufod.
Carissa friesiorum is a beautiful evergreen plant suitable for propagation by a range of methods. Some of the commonly used propagation methods are discussed below:
Seed Propagation
The propagation of Carissa friesiorum can be done through seeds collected from healthy plants. The seeds should be soaked in water for a few hours to soften the seed coat. The seeds can be sown in pots filled with well-draining soil mix and kept in indirect sunlight. The seeds usually take 4-6 weeks to germinate.
Cuttings Propagation
Another popular propagation method is through cuttings. Softwood cuttings from the plant tips can be taken and planted directly into the soil-filled pots or propagated in a moist environment. The moist environment can be created by covering the cuttings with a plastic bag or placing them in a well-lit container filled with water.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another effective method of propagating Carissa friesiorum. The process involves creating a root on a stem while still attached to the mother plant. A portion of the stem is wound with a knife to promote the growth of roots. The wound area is then covered with rooting hormone, wrapped with moist sphagnum moss, and enclosed with a plastic bag. Roots usually form in 6-8 weeks and can be carefully cut and planted in the soil.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another propagation technique that involves joining the shoot of one plant to the rootstock of another plant. This method is commonly used for propagating varieties of Carissa friesiorum that have desirable traits, such as improved disease resistance or a better fruiting potential. Grafting should only be done by professionals as it requires a high level of skill and experience.
Overall, propagation of Carissa friesiorum can be done through various methods, and it is important to choose the right method that suits your needs and resources.
Disease Management
Carissa friesiorum is generally considered a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it may occasionally be affected by fungal or bacterial diseases. The most common diseases affecting Carissa friesiorum are:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes dark brown or purplish spots to develop on the leaves. Infected leaves may eventually fall off, reducing the plant's ability to photosynthesize and thus, its overall health. To manage anthracnose, use fungicidal sprays or neem oil.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes circular or irregularly shaped spots to appear on the leaves. These spots may be yellow, brown, or black. In severe cases, the leaves may defoliate, leaving the plant susceptible to other diseases or pests. To manage leaf spot, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.
- Crown Rot: This bacterial disease causes the plant's crown to rot, which can eventually kill the entire plant. To manage crown rot, remove infected plants from the garden and dispose of them properly. Avoid planting susceptible plants in the same location.
Pest Management
Carissa friesiorum may also be affected by several pests, including:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can be difficult to detect as they live on the undersides of leaves and spin tiny webs. Signs of spider mite infestation include yellowing leaves and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, regularly spray the plant with a strong stream of water and use insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These small, white insects resemble tiny balls of cotton and suck the sap from the plant's leaves and stems. To manage mealybugs, remove infected leaves and stems and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: These small, green or black insects can quickly reproduce and cause significant damage to the plant. Signs of aphid infestation include twisted or curled leaves and a sticky residue on the leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
