Description of Dacryodes pubescens (Vermoesen) H.J.Lam
Dacryodes pubescens, also known as the African pear or Safou, is a tropical fruit tree that is native to West and Central Africa. It belongs to the Burseraceae family and is closely related to frankincense and myrrh. The tree is widely grown for its edible fruit, which is a popular food source in its native region.
General Appearance
The African pear tree can grow up to 40 meters tall, and its trunk may have a diameter of up to 1 meter. The tree's crown is wide and dense, and its leaves are shiny, dark-green, and have a leathery texture. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that later develop into oval-shaped fruits. The fruits are about the size of an avocado and have a pale yellow or greenish color when unripe and turn purplish-black when they are ripe.
Common Names
The African pear goes by different names depending on the region where it is grown. In Nigeria, it is known as Safou or African pear, while it is called Ube in Cameroon and Gabon. Other common names for this fruit tree include Atanga and Iyeye.
Uses
The fruit of the African pear tree is edible and is a significant food source in West and Central Africa. Safou is often consumed fresh or cooked, and it is sometimes used to make a type of oil which is high in unsaturated fatty acids and is used as a substitute for palm oil. The wood of the tree is strong and durable and is used in the construction industry. Additionally, the tree is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as coughs, malaria, and tuberculosis.
Light Requirements
Dacryodes pubescens requires full sunlight to grow properly. A bright and sunny location provides the plant with the necessary energy to stimulate photosynthesis and create the energy required for growth and development. If the plant doesn't get enough light, it may become leggy and have stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm tropical to subtropical climates, with temperatures between 25 and 35 degrees Celsius. It is not advisable to plant Dacryodes pubescens in frost-prone regions. The optimal temperature range is essential for plant growth and depends on the specific plant variety. Optimal temperatures facilitate photosynthesis, respiration, and nutrient uptake, enhancing plant growth and yield.
Soil Requirements
Dacryodes pubescens prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 5-7. The soil should be rich in organic matter, with a high water-holding capacity. Loose, aerated soil is recommended to support healthy root development and prevent root rot. A sandy or loamy soil texture is ideal for the plant, making it easy for the roots to grow and establish a firm hold.
Cultivation Methods for Dacryodes Pubescens
Dacryodes pubescens is generally cultivated using seeds or via vegetative propagation. It is best to plant this species in a well-draining soil mix which can retain moisture without causing root rot. When planting the seeds or cuttings, the planting holes must be deep enough to accommodate the roots, and the soil must be tamped firmly around the roots to offer stability.
Watering Needs for Dacryodes Pubescens
Dacryodes pubescens requires proper watering to maintain optimal health. Young plants need regular watering, especially during dry months. However, once the plant is established, it can tolerate short periods of drought. It is essential to water the plant at the base, avoiding getting the leaves wet, which can lead to fungal growth. Over-watering can lead to root rot, so it's important to allow the soil to dry slightly between watering.
Fertilization of Dacryodes Pubescens
Dacryodes pubescens requires regular fertilization to promote growth and good health. The plant responds well to balanced fertilizers, which should be applied during the growing season. An ideal fertilizer mix should have a nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium (N-P-K) ratio of 10-10-10 or 16-16-16. It is advisable to fertilize the plant at least every three months.
Pruning of Dacryodes Pubescens
Dacryodes pubescens requires pruning to maintain its shape and promote lateral branching. Pruning can be done throughout the year, but it is best to avoid pruning during the plant's dormant period. Pruning should be done using sharp, sterilized tools to avoid damaging the plant. Dead or diseased branches should be pruned as soon as they are identified to avoid the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Dacryodes pubescens
Dacryodes pubescens, also known as African pear, is a fruit tree native to West Africa. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods, such as seed propagation, grafting, and budding.
Seed propagation
Propagation of Dacryodes pubescens by seeds is simple and easy. Collect mature fruit from a healthy tree, extract the seed, and plant it immediately. Fill a pot with well-draining soil and sow the seed about 1 inch deep. Keep the soil moist and warm, and germination should occur within 2-3 weeks. Carefully transplant the seedling into a larger pot and provide it with proper care until it is ready to be planted in its permanent location.
Grafting
Grafting is a common propagation method used to reproduce plants with desirable traits. In the case of Dacryodes pubescens, grafting is typically done on rootstock from a closely related species. Trees can be grafted during the dormant season by carefully cutting and joining the plant parts together. The union is then wrapped with plastic or grafting tape to protect the graft and keep moisture in.
Budding
Budding is another propagation method that can be used on Dacryodes pubescens. It involves taking a bud from a healthy tree and inserting it beneath the bark of a seedling or rootstock. This method should be done during the growing season when the bark of the seedling is easily separated from the wood. Once the bud has successfully established itself, the stem above it can be cut off.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, it is important to select healthy plant material and provide the necessary care to ensure successful establishment and growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Dacryodes pubescens
Dacryodes pubescens, commonly known as African pear or African elemi, is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the family Burseraceae. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to various pests and diseases that can significantly affect its growth and productivity. Therefore, farmers and gardeners must implement proper disease and pest management strategies to maintain a healthy and productive Dacryodes pubescens plant. This article will describe some common diseases and pests that affect Dacryodes pubescens and suggest ways to manage them.
Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, flowers, and fruit of Dacryodes pubescens. Symptoms include brown, circular or irregularly shaped lesions that may have a yellow halo. Infected flowers and fruits may fall off prematurely. To manage anthracnose, farmers should practice good sanitation by removing and destroying infected plant debris and pruning off infected plant parts. Applying fungicides can also prevent and manage anthracnose.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of Dacryodes pubescens. Symptoms include small, dark spots on the leaves that may merge to form larger spots. Severe infections can cause defoliation, reducing the plant's ability to produce energy via photosynthesis. To manage leaf spot, farmers should practice good sanitation, such as removing and destroying infected plant debris, pruning infected plant parts, and applying fungicides.
Pests
Fruit flies: Fruit flies are a common pest that infests the fruits of Dacryodes pubescens. They lay eggs on ripe fruit, and the larvae feed on the fruit's flesh, causing it to rot and fall off prematurely. To manage fruit flies, farmers should practice good sanitation by removing and destroying infected and overripe fruits. Applying insecticides can also prevent and manage fruit flies.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small, sap-sucking insects that infest the leaves and stems of Dacryodes pubescens. They suck the plant's sap, reducing its vigor and yield. Scale insects also excrete honeydew, which attracts sooty mold that blocks sunlight and reduces photosynthesis. To manage scale insects, farmers should practice good sanitation, such as removing and destroying infected plant parts, and applying insecticides.
In conclusion, Dacryodes pubescens is a susceptible plant that is exposed to pests and diseases that can significantly reduce its yield and productivity. Farmers and gardeners must implement proper disease and pest management strategies to ensure a healthy and productive plant. Regular inspection of the plant, practicing good sanitation, and applying pesticides and fungicides are effective management strategies that can reduce the impact of diseases and pests on Dacryodes pubescens.
