Overview
Dacryodes viridiflora (Engl.) H.J.Lam, commonly known as "African plum" or "Ogbono tree," is a plant species that belongs to the family Burseraceae. This evergreen tree is native to Central and West Africa, where it thrives in the tropical rainforest, and it is widely cultivated for its valuable fruits and timber.
Appearance
The African plum tree grows up to 30 meters tall, with a straight trunk up to 60 cm in diameter, grayish-brown bark that flakes off, and dense foliage that forms a rounded, bushy crown. The leaves are alternately arranged, pinnate, and leathery, with 2-3 pairs of leaflets that are elliptic or lance-shaped, smooth, and glossy. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and inconspicuous, and they are borne in clusters at the base of the leaves.
Common Names
Dacryodes viridiflora is commonly known as African plum or Ogbono tree in English. Other popular names include Abobo, Abura, Atanga, Bibang, Eyon, Gombo, Mbumba, Mubaba, Njansang, and Tree okra, depending on the region and ethnic group.
Uses
The African plum tree is highly valued for its oil-rich fruits, which are used as a food ingredient and traditional medicine. The mature fruits are about the size of a golf ball, ovoid or oblong-ellipsoid in shape, and greenish-yellow when ripe. The fruits contain a white, fleshy pulp that is highly mucilaginous and flavorful, with a nutty and slightly sour taste. The seeds are hard and woody, and they are surrounded by a gelatinous layer that thickens when heated or soaked. The pulp and seeds are used to prepare a popular soup thickener, also known as ogbono or African mango. Ogbono soup is a traditional Nigerian dish that is usually served with fufu, rice, or yam. Besides its culinary uses, ogbono is also used as a source of oil, lubricant, and cosmetic ingredient, and it is believed to have antidiabetic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and aphrodisiac properties.
The African plum tree also produces a high-quality timber that is highly appreciated for its strength, durability, and esthetic appeal. The wood is reddish-brown in color, hard, dense, and fine-grained, with a natural resistance to decay, termites, and other pests. The wood is used to make furniture, flooring, veneer, tool handles, turnery, and carvings, among other things. The bark, leaves, and roots of the tree are also used to make herbal remedies for various ailments, including stomach problems, fever, wounds, and respiratory infections.
Typical Growth Conditions for Dacryodes viridiflora (Engl.) H.J.Lam
Dacryodes viridiflora (Engl.) H.J.Lam is a tree species that can grow up to 35 meters tall and has a maximum diameter of 100 cm. It is commonly found in the African rainforests, particularly in Cameroon, Congo, and Nigeria. While its growth rate is known to be slow, it can reach a mature height of about 20 meters in 15 to 20 years.
Light Requirements
Dacryodes viridiflora prefers moderate shade and can grow in low to medium light conditions. However, it requires sufficient light to promote photosynthesis and growth. As a result, it is best planted in partially shaded areas where it can receive between 50% and 70% sunlight. Direct sunlight can be damaging to its delicate leaves and stem.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Dacryodes viridiflora is between 20°C and 35°C. It can withstand a low temperature of up to 10°C and a high temperature of up to 40°C for a brief period. Temperatures below 10°C may cause its growth to slow down, lead to leaf defoliation, or in worst cases, result in death.
Soil Requirements
Dacryodes viridiflora grows best in well-drained, moist soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers soils that are slightly acidic, with pH values of between 5.5 and 6.5. It can grow in soils that are sandy, loamy, or clayey, but it thrives best in soils that are clayey loam. The soil should also be able to retain moisture well, as the tree requires adequate moisture to support healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods for Dacryodes viridiflora
Dacryodes viridiflora is a tropical tree native to Central and West Africa that is suitable for cultivation in warm, humid environments. To cultivate this plant, it is important to:
- Choose an area with well-draining soil that receives partial shade
- Plant the tree in a hole larger than its root ball
- Ensure the tree is watered regularly, particularly during the establishment phase
- Treat the tree for pests and diseases in a timely manner
Watering Needs for Dacryodes viridiflora
Dacryodes viridiflora requires consistent moisture to grow properly. It is important to:
- Water the tree deeply at least once a week during the growing season
- Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases
- Keep the area around the tree free of weeds and debris to promote proper drainage
Fertilization of Dacryodes viridiflora
Proper fertilization helps Dacryodes viridiflora to grow and produce fruit. To fertilize this plant, it is important to:
- Apply a balanced fertilizer formula every 4-6 weeks during the growing season
- Avoid over-fertilization, as this can cause excessive growth and decreased fruit production
- Monitor the tree's response to the fertilizer, adjusting the amount and frequency of application as necessary
Pruning of Dacryodes viridiflora
Pruning is important for maintaining the health and shape of Dacryodes viridiflora. To prune this plant, it is important to:
- Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches as soon as possible
- Prune the tree after fruiting to encourage new growth and flowering in the following season
- Avoid pruning the tree too heavily, as this can reduce fruit production and weaken the tree
Propagation of Dacryodes viridiflora
Dacryodes viridiflora propagates through both sexual and asexual methods. Among the sexual methods, seeds are the most common choice. The propagation method is pretty simple and easy, and the seeds can be collected from mature fruit. It is best to use fresh seeds for propagation.
Seed Propagation
The seeds should be planted at a depth of 2-3 cm in well-draining soil with a pH of 6-7, in either nurseries or pots. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Germination takes place within 1-3 weeks of sowing. Seedlings should be kept under shade for the first few months of growth.
Asexual Propagation
Grafting is one of the most common asexual propagation methods for Dacryodes viridiflora. It is ideal to use scions from healthy, mature trees. The scion should be grafted onto a young rootstock, which should be of the same species. The graft should be protected from excessive sunlight and moisture for the first few weeks.
Another asexual method that can be used for propagation is air layering. This method involves making a small incision in the bark of a mature plant, and covering it with moist peat moss and plastic wrap. The layering should be well-protected from excessive sunlight and moisture until roots form. Once the roots have formed, the new plant can be severed from the mother plant and planted in well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Dacryodes viridiflora
Dacryodes viridiflora, also known as African plum, is a tropical plant species commonly grown for its fruit. To ensure a good yield and health of the tree, proper disease and pest management practices must be implemented. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect Dacryodes viridiflora and suggestions on how to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: This fungal disease is characterized by brown or black spots on leaves, fruit, and stems. To manage the disease, it is essential to practice good sanitation by removing infected plant parts, maintaining adequate space between trees, and avoiding overhead irrigation. Fungicides may also be necessary to manage severe infections.
Root rot: This disease is caused by fungal pathogens that thrive in waterlogged soils. It is characterized by yellowing, wilting, and premature leaf drop. To manage the disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid excessive watering. Infected plants should be removed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Bacterial canker: This bacterial disease causes cankers on twigs and branches, which may eventually lead to dieback and death of the tree. To manage bacterial canker, remove infected branches and practice good sanitation to prevent the spread of the disease. In severe cases, a copper-based fungicide may also be necessary.
Pests
Scale insects: These pests are characterized by small, flattened, oval-shaped bodies that attach to leaves and twigs. Infestations can weaken the tree and reduce fruit yield. To manage scale insects, remove and destroy heavily infested plant parts, use sticky traps to monitor for pests, and apply insecticides if necessary.
Fruit fly: This pest lays its eggs in developing fruit, causing premature ripening and fruit drop. To manage fruit fly, use pheromone traps to monitor for adults, avoid planting near other fruit trees, and apply insecticides if necessary.
Caterpillars: These pests can cause defoliation, reducing the tree's ability to produce fruit. To manage caterpillars, handpick and destroy infected plant parts, use sticky traps to monitor for pests, and apply insecticides if necessary.
Overall, proper disease and pest management practices are crucial for growing healthy Dacryodes viridiflora trees and ensuring a good yield of fruit. Implementing a combination of preventative measures and treatments can successfully manage diseases and pests and protect the health of the tree.
