Overview
Cynometra laurentii De Wild. is a plant species from the family Fabaceae, which is native to tropical Africa. It is a medium to large-sized tree, reaching a height of 25 to 30 meters with a trunk diameter of 0.5 to 1 meter.
Common Names
Cynometra laurentii De Wild. is commonly known as African star apple, mbera, or essessang in Cameroon, and ugiri or ekpwe in Nigeria.
Uses
The fruit of the Cynometra laurentii De Wild. is edible and highly valued in West and Central Africa. The fruit is said to taste like a mix of apple, pear, and grape flavors and is also rich in vitamin C. The fruit's sweet pulp is eaten fresh or used in the preparation of beverages, jams, and wine.
Additionally, the bark, leaves, and roots of the tree have medicinal properties and are used to treat various ailments, including gastrointestinal disorders, fever, and yellow fever. The bark is also used to make a dye for fabrics.
Appearance
Cynometra laurentii De Wild. has a dense, rounded crown and a straight, cylindrical bole. The tree's bark is dark brown with deep fissures and corky bumps. The leaves are evergreen, alternate, and compound, measuring 15-30 cm long with shiny undersides. The tree produces flowers that are yellowish-green in color and roughly 1.5 cm wide. The fruit of the tree is an oblong or round berry, measuring 5-8 cm in diameter, with a yellow or orange thick, leather-like skin that encloses a juicy, sweet, and white pulp containing seeds.
Light Requirements
Cynometra laurentii De Wild. thrives in full sun exposure, but it can also survive in partial shade. In areas with intense sunlight, it is best to plant this species in areas where there is partial shade to prevent sunburn on the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
This species of plant prefers a warm climate with temperatures averaging around 27°C. It can tolerate a minimum temperature of about 20°C and a maximum of 38°C. Low humidity is also ideal for the growth of Cynometra laurentii De Wild.
Soil Requirements
Soil for Cynometra laurentii De Wild. should be well-drained, with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The soil should have moderate fertility, and regular application of organic fertilizers such as compost and manure is recommended. The plant can withstand periods of drought, but it grows and develops best in moist soil.
Cultivation Methods
Cynometra laurentii De Wild. is a tropical plant that grows best in warm climates. It can be grown from seeds or plant cuttings, and requires well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. The plant should be placed in a sunny location or partially shaded area for optimal growth.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is recommended to water the plant once a week during dry seasons, or when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering may cause root rot, so be sure to avoid saturating the soil.
Fertilization
Fertilization can help promote growth and increase the plant's resistance to diseases. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The plant should be fertilized every three to four months during the growing season, preferably after watering.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the plant's shape and improve its overall health. Dead or damaged branches should be removed, and any branches that are crossing or rubbing should also be pruned. The best time to prune is during the plant's dormant season, which is usually in late winter or early spring.
Propagation of Cynometra laurentii De Wild.
Cynometra laurentii De Wild., commonly known as African redwood or Mukulungu, is a large tropical tree native to central and western Africa. It is highly valued for its timber, which is used for construction, furniture, and decorative veneers. Propagation of C. laurentii can be done through the following methods:
Seed Propagation
The most popular way of propagating C. laurentii is through seed propagation. The seeds of this tree are medium-sized, reddish-brown, and smooth. They can be obtained from matured fruits that fall on the ground naturally.
The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the hard outer coat. After soaking, the seeds should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and covered with a thin layer of soil. The pot should be kept in a warm and humid place, and the soil should be kept moist at all times. Germination usually occurs within 2-4 weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is also possible with C. laurentii, but it is less commonly used. The best time to take cuttings is during the rainy season when the tree is actively growing. Softwood cuttings with at least 3-4 nodes should be taken and planted in a well-draining rooting medium.
The cuttings should be placed under high humidity conditions, and a rooting hormone can be used to increase the chances of success. After rooting, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots.
Air Layering
Air layering is another propagation method for C. laurentii. It is a technique where a portion of a branch is induced to produce roots while still attached to the parent plant. This method is best used for mature trees with a thick trunk and is often used to maintain a particular variety of the tree.
To air layer C. laurentii, a bark ring should be made around a branch, and a rooting hormone applied to the exposed area. A plastic bag filled with moist sphagnum moss should then be wrapped around the exposed area, and the branch should be secured firmly. The moss and bag should be kept moist at all times, and roots should develop within several weeks. Once well-rooted, the newly propagated plant can be cut free from the parent plant and potted.
Disease and Pest Management for Cynometra laurentii De Wild
Cynometra laurentii De Wild, commonly known as the Gabon chocolate fruit, is a tree species native to tropical Africa. Although it is generally considered a hardy plant, it is still susceptible to various diseases and pests that can damage its leaves, fruits, and bark. Proper disease and pest management practices are necessary to ensure the healthy growth of Cynometra laurentii De Wild.
Common Diseases of Cynometra laurentii De Wild
One of the most common diseases that affect Cynometra laurentii De Wild is powdery mildew. It is a fungal disease that results in white or gray patches on the plant's leaves, flowers, and fruits. Powdery mildew can weaken the plant and lead to a decrease in fruit production. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to remove infected plant parts and improve plant hygiene. Spraying the plant with a mixture of baking soda and water can also help prevent fungal growth.
Another prevalent disease in Cynometra laurentii De Wild is leaf spot, which is caused by the fungus Phomopsis cynometrae. The disease results in dark spots on the leaves, leading to defoliation and eventually affecting the tree's general growth. To prevent leaf spot, avoid overhead watering and provide adequate space between trees to allow for proper airflow. Chemical control is also possible, and an application of copper fungicide can help rid your plant of the disease.
Common Pests of Cynometra laurentii De Wild
Cynometra laurentii De Wild is also susceptible to pest infestations, which can damage the trees' health and reduce their yield. One of the most common pests that affect Cynometra laurentii De Wild is the gall midge. The insect lays its eggs on young spring buds that can cause distorted growth and potentially kill the buds. To avoid an infestation of gall midges, pruning and destroying affected buds is essential.
The damage caused by beetles and other leaf-eating insects is also common in Cynometra laurentii De Wild. These pests feed on the plant's leaves, causing significant leaf loss and reducing the plant's overall vitality. To control beetle and insect infestations, an application of insecticides can be useful, but ensure to use an IGR (insect growth regulator) for better results.
Conclusion
Proper disease and pest management practices are critical to ensure Cynometra laurentii De Wild's healthy growth and overall productivity. Early treatment and intervention are always the best solution when combating pests and diseases.
