Origin
Citropsis gabunensis (Engl.) Swingle & M.Kellerm. var. lacourtiana (De Wild.) Swingle & M.Kellerm. is a plant species that is native to tropical West Africa. It grows in areas that have humid and moist tropical forests and is typically found in Gabon and Cameroon.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including "Gabon orange," "African cherry orange," and "bitter orange." In Gabon, it is known as "Kakamambi" and in Cameroon, it is called "Mambéma."
Uses
The fruit of Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana is typically used for food, medicine, and as a source of timber. The fruit's pulp is edible and high in Vitamin C, making it a popular ingredient in local cuisines and drinks. The bark of the tree is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as stomach pain, fever, and infections. The plant's wood is strong and durable, making it a valuable source of timber for building and furniture making.
General Appearance
Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana is a small tree that grows up to 10 meters tall. It has a dense canopy of glossy, dark green leaves that are arranged alternately on the branches. The tree produces small, round fruit that looks similar to a tangerine but has a bitter taste. The bark is gray-brown and smooth when young but develops fissures and deep grooves with age. The plant has shallow roots and a relatively narrow trunk compared to other trees.
Growth Conditions for Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana
Citropsis gabunensis (Engl.) Swingle & M.Kellerm. var. lacourtiana (De Wild.) Swingle & M.Kellerm. is an evergreen tree that belongs to the family of Rutaceae. It is native to the tropical rainforests of Central Africa, particularly in Gabon, Congo, and Cameroon. The growth conditions for Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana are as follows:
Light Requirements
Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana grows best in partial shade to full sun. It is tolerant of shade, but too much shade can lead to slow growth and reduced fruit production. Therefore, it is recommended that it receives at least 50% to 70% of sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana grows well in warm and humid tropical climates. It requires a minimum temperature of 20°C and a maximum temperature of 28°C. Temperatures below 15°C can cause leaf and fruit drop. It prefers a consistent temperature but can tolerate short periods of cold, such as brief frosts of -2°C for a few hours.
Soil Requirements
Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should also be moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can cause root rot. It is tolerant of a range of soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and lateritic soils.
Fertilizer Requirements
Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana responds well to fertilization. However, excessive fertilization can harm the plant. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 8-8-8 or 10-10-10. The fertilizer should be applied three times a year, during the start of the rainy season, mid-rainy season, and end of the rainy season.
Water Requirements
Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana requires regular watering during the dry season. The frequency of watering depends on the soil moisture content and the prevailing weather conditions. Overwatering should be avoided, as this can lead to root rot.
By providing the right growing conditions, Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana can produce excellent-quality fruits and yield good harvests.
Cultivation of Citropsis gabunensis (Engl.) Swingle & M.Kellerm. var. lacourtiana (De Wild.) Swingle & M.Kellerm.
Citropsis gabunensis (Engl.) Swingle & M.Kellerm. var. lacourtiana (De Wild.) Swingle & M.Kellerm. is a small tree that can thrive in various climatic conditions. It is a dioecious plant that produces edible citrus fruits known as "acerola." Here are some cultivation methods to ensure optimal growth:
First, the plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. However, avoid using water-logged soil as it can lead to root rot. The best soil for cultivation is a mixture of loam, peat moss, and sand in equal proportions.
Second, the plant requires moderate watering. Therefore, it's essential to water it thoroughly only when the soil is dry to the touch and not too frequently. Overwatering can lead to root rot and cause the plant to wither.
Watering needs
Citropsis gabunensis (Engl.) Swingle & M.Kellerm. var. lacourtiana (De Wild.) Swingle & M.Kellerm. requires moderate watering, which takes about one inch of water every week. However, the actual amount may vary depending on the temperature and amount of rainfall. Ensure to water the plant once a week only when the soil is dry to the touch to prevent overwatering.
Fertilization
The plant requires fertilization throughout its growing cycle. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the plant's growing season, usually from spring through fall. The best time to fertilize is after watering the plant, as it helps distribute nutrients evenly to the roots. Avoid applying fertilizer on dry soil as it can burn the roots.
Pruning
Pruning the plant is necessary to ensure optimal growth and productivity. The best time to prune is during early spring, before new growth appears. Trim any dead or damaged branches, and remove any weak or unproductive branches, leaving only the strong ones. Proper pruning can lead to increased yield and better fruit quality.
In conclusion, Citropsis gabunensis (Engl.) Swingle & M.Kellerm. var. lacourtiana (De Wild.) Swingle & M.Kellerm. requires well-draining soil, moderate watering, balanced fertilization, and proper pruning for optimal growth and productivity. Following these cultivation methods diligently can lead to a healthy and productive plant.
Propagation of Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana
Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana can be propagated through various methods, such as seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and grafting. Each of these methods has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice of propagation method may depend on the availability of resources and the desired outcomes.
Seed Propagation
The most common and easiest method of propagation for Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana is through seeds. Seeds can be collected from ripe fruits and sown immediately or after storage in moist conditions. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining, fertile soil mix under shade with temperatures ranging from 25-30°C. Germination can range from 2 to 4 weeks, and seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the field after the first set of true leaves appear.
Vegetative Propagation
Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana can be propagated vegetatively using stem cuttings, root cuttings, and air layering. Stem cuttings taken from mature shoots with at least two nodes can be rooted under mist or in a soil mix with rooting hormones. Root cuttings can be taken from the primary root and lateral roots and treated with rooting hormones before planting. Air layering can be done by girdling a branch and applying rooting hormones to promote the development of roots. The resulting plantlets can be separated and potted or planted into the field.
Grafting
Grafting can be used to propagate Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana onto compatible rootstocks. This method is used to improve rootstock vigor and disease resistance, reduce the time to fruiting, and increase crop yield. The scions selected for grafting should be disease-free and compatible with the selected rootstock. The graft union should be protected from desiccation and disease until the plants are established. Grafted plants can be planted in the field or in containers.
Disease Management
Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana is generally a hardy plant that can withstand various environmental conditions. However, it can be affected by some common diseases that affect citrus plants, such as:
- Citrus tristeza virus (CTV): This is a disease that affects the Citrus family, including Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana. Symptoms include stem pitting, stunting, leaf yellowing, and premature fruit drop. The management of CTV includes the use of virus-free planting materials, constant monitoring, and destruction of infected plants.
- Phytophthora root rot: This is a soil-borne disease that affects various plants, including Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana. It causes the roots to rot, and the leaves to wilt. The management of Phytophthora root rot includes providing well-drained soil and avoiding over-watering.
- Gummosis: This is a disease that causes the bark of the plant to crack and ooze gum. It can be caused by various factors, including fungal and bacterial infections and physical damage to the plant. The management of gummosis includes proper pruning of damaged branches and application of fungicides or bactericides to prevent further damage to the plant.
Pest Management
Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana can also be affected by various pests, including:
- Citrus leafminer: This is a pest that affects the leaves of citrus plants, including Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana. It causes the leaves to curl and twist, affecting the growth of the plant. The management of citrus leafminer includes the use of insecticides and constant monitoring of the plant.
- Citrus red mite: This is a pest that affects the leaves of citrus plants. It causes the leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely. The management of citrus red mite includes the use of acaricides and the removal of infested leaves.
- Fruit flies: Fruit flies can damage the fruit of Citropsis gabunensis var. lacourtiana by laying eggs in the fruit, causing it to rot. The management of fruit flies includes the use of traps and the removal of infested fruit.
Proper cultural practices, such as regular weeding, removal of fallen leaves, and monitoring, can prevent the infestation of pests and diseases. It is important to note that pests and diseases can spread easily, so the proper management of one plant can help prevent the spread to other plants.
