Overview of Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni
Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni, commonly known as "Lecythis-like fruit tree," belongs to the family Sapotaceae. It is an evergreen tree that produces large, edible fruits that are rounded and flattened at the ends. The plant is native to the Amazon Rainforest and can be found in Brazil, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela.
General appearance
The tree can grow up to 30 meters in height, with a straight cylindrical trunk that is usually buttressed at the base. Its bark is dark brown, rough, and cracked into small squares. The leaves are glossy green, leathery, and elliptic-shaped, with a length of 10-25 cm. The flowers are small, white, and fragrant, with a diameter of 5-7 mm. The fruit is large, with a diameter of about 12 cm, yellow-orange, and edible, containing several seeds.
Common names
Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni is commonly known as "Lecythis-like fruit tree," "Castanha-de-arara," "Castanha-do-maranhão," "Igapa," "Jatobá-da-terra-firme," and "Little lecythis."
Uses of Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni
The fruit of the tree is the main economic part of the plant and is consumed by the locals as food. It is also used to make sweets, jams, and ice cream. The bark and leaves of the tree are used in traditional medicine to treat fever, diarrhea, and other ailments. The wood of the tree is hard and durable and is used for making furniture, boats, and tools. The tree is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Light requirements
Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni thrives under full sunlight exposure. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. The plant can grow under partial shade, but this may affect its flowering and fruiting capabilities.
Temperature requirements
Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni grows optimally in tropical and subtropical regions with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 30°C. The plant cannot withstand freezing temperatures. Frost can be detrimental to the plant and may cause it to die-off.
Soil requirements
The plant grows best in well-drained, deep, and fertile soils. It can also adapt to sandy or clay soils. Soil pH should be between 5.5 and 7.5 for optimal growth. Good soil fertility enhances the plant's growth, flowering, and fruiting. The soil should retain some moisture as the plant is not drought-resistant.
Cultivation
Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni, also known as the Mundu, is a tropical evergreen tree that grows up to 25 meters tall. It is commonly found in rainforests in South America. The plant prefers well-drained soil and temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. Mundu can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
Mundu requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. However, it is essential not to overwater the plant. Watering should be done once or twice a week, depending on weather conditions and soil moisture. During the rainy season, it is recommended to reduce watering frequency to avoid waterlogging and root rot.
Fertilization
To ensure healthy growth, Mundu requires regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal for the plant. Fertilizers should be applied every three to four months, starting from the beginning of the growing season until the end of the flowering period. Overfertilization should be avoided as it can lead to leaf burn, excessive growth, and reduced fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to ensure that Mundu remains healthy, bushy, and productive. The best time to prune is during the dry season, after the fruiting period. Remove all dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Trim back the side shoots to encourage bushy growth. Pruning also helps to control the height of the plant, making it more manageable for harvesting and maintenance. It is recommended to use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the tree.
Propagation of Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni
Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni is commonly propagated by seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni need to be fresh and germination takes about two to three weeks. The seeds are cleaned and soaked in water for two to three days before sowing. They are then sown in seedling trays filled with a well-draining soil mix and covered lightly with the same mix. The trays are then placed in a shaded area and watered regularly. Once the seedlings are established, they are transplanted to individual pots filled with a suitable soil mix.
Propagation by Cuttings
Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni can also be propagated using stem cuttings. Softwood cuttings about 15-20 cm long can be taken in spring or early summer from the tips of healthy shoots. The basal leaves are removed, and the cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormone powder and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The pots are then covered with a plastic bag and placed in a shaded area. After a few weeks, new growth appears, indicating that rooting has taken place. The plastic covering can be gradually removed, and the cuttings can be transplanted to individual pots or directly in the ground.
Disease and Pest Management of Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni
Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni is a tropical plant native to West Africa. The plant is known for its sweet, edible fruits, but it is prone to various diseases and pests. Therefore, disease and pest management are essential to maintain the health and growth of the plant, and to ensure a high yield of fruits. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni, and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Bacterial Wilt: Bacterial wilt is a common disease that affects Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni plants. It is caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas solanacearum. The disease affects the vascular system of the plant, causing wilting of leaves and stems. To manage bacterial wilt, remove and destroy infected plants, use disease-free seeds and seedlings, and practice crop rotation.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and fruits of Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni plants. It causes dark spots on leaves, cankers on stems, and rots on fruits. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant parts, use fungicides, and practice good sanitation practices.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni plants. It causes a white powdery coating on the leaves, which can eventually lead to leaf drop. To manage powdery mildew, use fungicides, increase air circulation, and avoid overhead irrigation.
Common Pests
Fruit Flies: Fruit flies are common pests that affect Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni plants. They lay their eggs in the fruits, causing them to rot. To manage fruit flies, use traps, remove and destroy infested fruits, and practice good sanitation practices.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni plants. They can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and the transfer of viruses. To manage aphids, use insecticides, practice good sanitation practices, and introduce natural predators.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths, which feed on the leaves of Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni plants. They can cause extensive damage to the plant and reduce its yield. To manage caterpillars, use insecticides or introduce natural predators, such as birds or parasitic wasps.
In conclusion, disease and pest management are crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of Chrysophyllum delpydora Baehni plants. By identifying and managing common diseases and pests, growers can ensure a high yield of healthy and delicious fruits.
