Chrysophyllum ulugurense Engl.
Chrysophyllum ulugurense Engl. is a fruit-bearing tree species that belongs to the Sapotaceae family. It is commonly known as the African star apple, African cherry, and Agbalumo in Nigeria. This plant is native to tropical Africa and can be found in countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, Nigeria, and Tanzania.
General Appearance
The tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a thick, rough bark. The leaves are glossy green, leathery, and can grow up to 15 cm long and 7 cm wide. The plant produces distinctive, round, purple fruit that is 4-5 cm in diameter, covered in a velvety skin. When the fruit is ripe, it opens up to reveal a white or yellowish pulp that is sweet and tangy in taste. The seeds inside the fruit are also edible.
Uses
Chrysophyllum ulugurense Engl. tree is a valuable plant species, which has a wide range of uses. The fruit is commonly consumed fresh, or processed into jams and jellies. The seeds are often used to produce a type of butter called Phulwara. The bark has medicinal properties and is used to treat dysentery, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal problems. The wood of the Chrysophyllum ulugurense tree is also used for furniture and construction due to its hardness and durability.
In summary, Chrysophyllum ulugurense Engl. is a valuable tree species that is native to tropical Africa. It has a distinctive appearance, producing edible fruit and seeds. The plant has various uses including consumption of its fruit, production of butter, medicinal, and construction purposes.
Light Requirements
Chrysophyllum ulugurense Engl. thrives well in areas that are exposed to direct sunlight. The plant requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for proper growth and development. Therefore, it is best to plant it in a location where it can receive the full intensity of the sun's rays.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in a warm tropical climate, with temperatures ranging between 22°C - 30°C (72°F - 86°F). It is not frost or cold tolerant and will not survive in areas with temperatures below 18°C (64°F). Therefore, it is best to grow this plant in regions with a consistent temperature range throughout the year.
Soil Requirements
Chrysophyllum ulugurense Engl. prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH range between 5.5 to 6.5, slightly acidic to neutral. The plant has shallow roots and requires loose soil that allows air and water to penetrate easily. A mixture of compost, sand, and loam soil is ideal for growing this plant.
Cultivation Methods
Chrysophyllum ulugurense Engl., commonly known as the African star apple, is a tropical fruit tree that thrives in warm and humid environments. It requires well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter for optimal growth. The plant can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or grafts. It is recommended to plant the tree during the rainy season to provide the plant with enough moisture and nutrients to establish itself.
Watering Needs
The African star apple requires regular watering to thrive. The plant prefers moist soils, but it is important to avoid waterlogging, which may lead to root rot. Young plants require more frequent watering than mature trees. During the dry season, it may be necessary to water the plant twice daily, especially if the soil tends to dry out quickly.
Fertilization
For optimal growth and fruit production, it is recommended to fertilize the African star apple with a balanced NPK fertilizer, such as 10-10-10. The plant should be fertilized in the early stages of growth and during the flowering and fruiting seasons. The amount of fertilizer applied should be adjusted based on the soil quality and the plant's growth rate. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers should be avoided as they may promote vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential practice in maintaining the health and productivity of the African star apple tree. It is recommended to prune the tree during the dry season to avoid the risk of infecting the plant with diseases. The pruning should focus on removing dead and diseased branches, as well as limiting the height and width of the tree. The pruning cuts should be made at a 45-degree angle, and the pruning tools should be disinfected to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Chrysophyllum Ulugurense Engl. Plant
Chrysophyllum ulugurense Engl. can be propagated through several methods including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
The plant produces seeds which can be collected for propagation. The seeds should be collected when they are mature, and their outer coverings have begun to dry and split. The seeds should then be cleaned and sown in a nursery bed or in separate containers filled with potting mix. The seeds should be watered regularly, and germination should occur within 3-4 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Chrysophyllum ulugurense Engl. can also be propagated through vegetative means. Stem cuttings can be taken from the parent plant and rooted in a rooting hormone solution or in moist soil. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants, and the leaves on the lower part of the stem should be removed before planting. The cuttings should be planted in a hole in the rooting medium and watered regularly. Rooting should occur within 6-8 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Chrysophyllum ulugurense Engl.
Chrysophyllum ulugurense Engl., also known as African star apple or agbalumo, is a fruit tree native to tropical Africa. While it is generally hardy, it can be vulnerable to a few diseases and pests. Here are some common issues and methods for managing them:
Diseases
Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases can be an issue for Chrysophyllum ulugurense. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and the presence of white or black powdery growth on the leaves. To manage fungal diseases, it is important to keep the area around the tree clean and free from debris or fallen leaves, which can harbor fungal spores. Fungicides may also be necessary to control the spread of the disease.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases can also affect Chrysophyllum ulugurense. Symptoms may include a yellowing or browning of leaves, wilting, and cankers on the trunk or branches. To control bacterial diseases, infected branches must be pruned and destroyed to control the spread of the infection. In severe cases, antibiotics might be necessary.
Pests
Fruit Flies
Fruit flies can be a nuisance for Chrysophyllum ulugurense. The fruit flies feed on the fruit causing it to loses its value and they can also introduce diseases. Traditional and homemade fruit fly traps can be used to capture fruit flies. Removing ripe and overripe fruits, removing rotting can also prevent fruit fly infestation. In severe cases, insecticides can be applied to control the infestation.
Leaf Miners
Leaf miners are small insects that burrow inside leaves, creating tunnels and causing unsightly damage. To manage leaf miners for Chrysophyllum ulugurense, it is important to keep the area around the tree clean and free from debris or fallen leaves which can harbor the insects. The use of insecticides can also be effective in controlling the infestation.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant. Infestations can cause wilting, yellowing of leaves and stunted growth to the plant. They reproduce quickly, and a severe infestation can lead to plant death. To manage a mealybug infestation, it is important to prune and discard infected plant parts. This should be followed by the application of insecticides or the use of organic solutions like alcohol or neem oil to kill the mealybugs.
