Overview
Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don, commonly known as the African star apple, is a tropical tree found in West Africa. The tree is highly valued for its edible fruit and medicinal properties.Appearance
The Chrysophyllum obovatum tree grows up to 20 meters in height, with a dense and rounded crown. The leaves are glossy and dark green, obovate in shape, and arranged alternately on the branches. The tree produces small, fragrant, and white flowers that grow in clusters on the branches. The fruit of the Chrysophyllum obovatum is a round or oblong berry that is green when immature and turns yellow or orange when ripe. The fruit has a glossy, smooth skin, and a fleshy pulp that contains seeds in the middle.Uses
The Chrysophyllum obovatum tree is highly valued for its edible fruit, which is sweet and juicy with a pleasant aroma. The fruit can be eaten fresh or used to make jams, jellies, and other desserts. The tree is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as diarrhea, dysentery, and fever. The bark of the tree is used as a tonic and to treat dental problems, while the root is used to combat parasitic infections. The wood of the Chrysophyllum obovatum is used to make furniture, tools, and other household items. In summary, the Chrysophyllum obovatum is a tropical tree found in West Africa. It produces sweet and juicy fruit that is highly valued for its taste and medicinal properties. The tree has glossy leaves and produces fragrant flowers that grow in clusters. The wood of the tree is also used for various purposes, including making furniture and tools.Light Requirements
Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don typically grows in full sun to partial shade conditions. The plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and thrive. If grown in partial shade, the plant may have slower growth and may not produce as much fruit as it would in full sun.
Temperature Requirements
Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don grows best in warm to hot temperatures. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) but will not grow well in temperatures below 60°F (15°C). The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 70°F (21°C) to 85°F (29°C). The plant is not frost-tolerant and will die if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don grows well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, as waterlogged conditions can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. To improve soil fertility and drainage, organic matter can be added to the planting hole or mixed into the soil before planting.
Cultivation
Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don, commonly known as the Yellow fruit tree, is native to Western Africa and is often planted for its fruit. To cultivate this plant, it is best to grow it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant needs full sun and to be protected from frost, so it is best to grow it in a warm environment.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering in the first few years to ensure healthy growth. Water it immediately after planting and continue to do so through the first growing season. After the plant has established, reduce watering to only when the soil feels dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other soil-borne diseases.
Fertilization
Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don prefers a soil that is nutrient-rich, so it requires regular fertilization. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. You can also add organic matter to the soil to improve its fertility.
Pruning
Prune the plant in the late spring or early summer, after the fruit has been harvested. Remove any dead, dying, or diseased wood. Prune any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. You should also remove any suckers or sprouts that emerge from around the base of the tree to ensure a healthy plant.
Propagation of Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don
Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don, commonly known as the yellow fruit plum, is a West African fruit tree with high economic and nutritional value. The tree can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual propagation
The sexual method of propagation involves the use of seeds. It is important to note that Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don seeds require a period of dormancy before germination. This dormancy can be broken by storing the seeds in a dry place or by soaking them in warm water for 48 hours. The seeds are then sown in trays containing a mixture of sand and organic matter. Germination occurs in 3 to 4 weeks, and the seedlings are ready for transplanting when they reach a height of 10-15 cm.
Asexual propagation
Asexual propagation is another method used for Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don. This method involves the use of vegetative parts of the plant. The following are the three main methods of asexual propagation:
- Cuttings: Cuttings are taken from mature trees, and the leaves are trimmed to reduce transpiration. The cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a mixture of sand and organic matter. The cuttings are kept in a high-humidity environment, preferably under a polythene bag, until rooting occurs. The rooted cuttings are then transplanted into a nursery bed.
- Grafting: Grafting involves joining a scion from a desirable tree to a rootstock from a hardy tree. The scion is cut diagonally, and the rootstock is cut in a V-shape. The two parts are then joined together, bound with a polythene strip, and sealed with grafting wax. The grafted plant is then kept in a high humidity environment until the graft union has formed.
- Inarching: Inarching involves joining the stem of a young plant to the stem of a mature plant. A young plant with thin stems is selected, and the bark of the stem is gouged out in a ring. A matching ring is cut out of the bark of the mature tree, and the two stems are then joined together. The joint is then wrapped with a polythene strip and sealed with grafting wax. The young plant is then cut off and transplanted into a nursery bed once the graft union has formed.
Overall, Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don can be propagated through various methods, making it a versatile and easily propagated plant species.
Disease Management for Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don
Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don is susceptible to various fungus and viral diseases. The common diseases that affect the plant include leaf spot, powdery mildew, black mold, anthracnose, and root rot. These diseases can cause wilting, yellowing, and defoliation of the plant.
To manage these diseases, it is essential to follow good cultural practices. Maintaining proper plant hygiene by regular pruning and disposing of infected plant parts can prevent the spread of diseases. Additionally, practicing crop rotation and avoiding overwatering can help prevent the development of root rot. Fungicides may also be useful in managing diseases when used according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Pest Management for Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don
Chrysophyllum obovatum Sabine & G.Don is also vulnerable to various insect pests. The common pests that infest the plant include scales, mealybugs, spider mites, and caterpillars. These pests can cause damage to the plant by feeding on the foliage, causing wilting, yellowing, and stunting of the plant.
To manage these pests, it is necessary to ensure good plant health. Providing appropriate cultural and growing conditions can help the plant resist pest infestations. Additionally, regular monitoring of the plant for signs of infestation can help identify and address pest problems early. Insecticides and miticides can also be used to manage infestations, but only when used according to the manufacturer's instructions.
