Origin
Dialium hexasepalum Harms is a tropical tree species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. The plant is native to regions of West and Central Africa.
Common Names
Dialium hexasepalum Harms is commonly referred to as the African velvet tamarind, velvet tamarind, Awin, Icheku, Nsu, Tsamiyar kurm, and Tsamiyar kuskure in different parts of sub-Saharan Africa.
Appearance
Dialium hexasepalum Harms is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall. The bark of the tree is smooth and grayish-brown, and the leaves are oblong and dark green in color. The plant produces fragrant flowers that are pale pink and have a diameter of about 1 cm. The fruits of the plant are reddish-brown pods that are cylindrical, elongated, and velvety to the touch. Each pod contains a single seed that is surrounded by a sweet-sour edible pulp.
Uses
The fruit of Dialium hexasepalum Harms is edible and is consumed in different ways across Africa. In some regions, the pulp is used as a seasoning or flavoring agent because of its acidic taste. The fruit is also used to make refreshing drinks, jams, and syrups. The plant has significant medicinal value and is used traditionally to treat various illnesses. The bark, leaves, and roots of the tree have been used to treat fever, diabetes, malaria, hypertension, and diarrhea. The plant is also known to have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The wood of the plant is strong and durable and is used for building and carving.
Light Requirements
The plant Dialium hexasepalum Harms thrives well in full sunlight or partial shade. As a result, it is recommended to expose the plant to at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to promote optimal growth. In areas with scorching temperatures, partial shade should be provided to prevent the plant from drying out.
Temperature Requirements
Dialium hexasepalum Harms is native to tropical and subtropical regions and can grow adequately under a wide range of temperatures. However, the plant thrives best when kept in a warm and humid environment. The optimal temperature range for this plant to grow is between 25°C to 30°C.
Soil Requirements
For optimal growth, the plant Dialium hexasepalum Harms needs well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and the plant should be grown in a pot or bed that is deep enough to accommodate its root system. In addition, the use of compost or manure is recommended to keep the soil fertile.
Cultivation methods:
The Dialium hexasepalum Harms plant thrives in warm and humid climates, making it an ideal choice for tropical and subtropical regions. It can be easily grown from seeds or propagated through cuttings.
When planting from seeds, select a well-draining potting mix and sow the seeds at a depth of about 1 inch. Keep the soil moist and warm, and the seeds should sprout within 3-4 weeks. For cuttings, select healthy stems and cut them into sections of about 6 inches, making sure that each section has at least 2-3 leaves. Plant the cuttings in well-draining soil and ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
Watering needs:
The Dialium hexasepalum Harms plant requires regular watering to thrive. It is best to water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. During the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall, the plant may need watering every 3-4 days. During the dormant season, which is usually in winter, reduce watering to once a week.
Fertilization:
To promote healthy growth and flowering, fertilize the plant during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium is ideal for Dialium hexasepalum Harms. Apply the fertilizer once a month, or as directed by the manufacturer. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can result in salt buildup and leaf burn.
Pruning:
Pruning the Dialium hexasepalum Harms plant can help maintain its shape and encourage new growth. It is best to prune the plant after flowering, using clean and sharp pruning shears. Cut back any dead or damaged branches, as well as any crossed or crowded branches. You may also prune back the plant's overall size by up to a third each year if needed. Avoid pruning during the dormant season, as this can weaken the plant.
Propagation of Dialium hexasepalum Harms
Dialium hexasepalum Harms, commonly known as the African black velvet tamarind or velvet tamarind, is a tropical fruit tree that is native to Central and West Africa. It produces small, edible fruits that have a sweet and tangy flavor. If you want to propagate Dialium hexasepalum Harms, you can use several methods, including seeds, cuttings, or grafting.
Seeds
Propagation by seeds is an easy and affordable method for Dialium hexasepalum Harms. Collect mature fruits that have fallen from the tree, and extract the seeds from the pulp. Clean the seeds with water and let them dry in the sun for two days. Sow the seeds in a mixture of sand, compost and soil in equal proportions, cover them lightly, and keep them moist. The seeds will usually germinate within three to four weeks, but it may take several months. Once the seedlings grow to about a foot tall, you can transplant them to a larger pot or the field.
Cuttings
Dialium hexasepalum Harms can be propagated by stem cuttings, although it is a bit challenging. Choose a healthy, young stem, and make a clean cut below a node. Cuttings should be about 20 cm in length and stripped of leaves from the bottom third of the stem. Dip the lower end in rooting hormone and place it in a well-drained, sandy soil mixture. Keep the soil moist and protected from direct sunlight while the cutting roots. It may take several months to see growth.
Grafting
Grafting is a reliable way to propagate Dialium hexasepalum Harms and is commonly used in commercial fruit production. The top of the tree to be propagated is cut off near the end of the growing season. The scion of the desired cultivar is then cut to match the diameter of the cut rootstock. The scion is then grafted onto the rootstock, and the plants are kept in a humid environment until the grafts take hold.
Propagation is rewarding, as it allows one to spread the beauty and aromas of Dialium hexasepalum Harms with others.
Disease and Pest Management for Dialium hexasepalum Harms
Dialium hexasepalum Harms, commonly known as velvet tamarind, is a fruiting tree native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa. Similar to other fruit trees, this plant is also prone to several diseases and pest infestations. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Dialium hexasepalum Harms and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves and fruits, leading to defoliation and yield loss. It spreads quickly during rainy seasons, and infection occurs through wounds or open spaces on the plant surface. To manage this disease, prune infected plant parts and apply foliar fungicides containing copper sulfate or chlorothalonil.
Root Rot: Root rot is a soil-borne disease caused by fungi that kills the roots and reduces the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients. Symptoms include yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and wilting. To prevent this disease, avoid overwatering, ensure proper drainage, and apply fungicides containing Trichoderma viride or Bacillus subtilis to the soil.
Pests
Fruit fly: The fruit fly is a common pest that attacks Dialium hexasepalum Harms fruits, causing premature rotting and damage. To manage this pest, install fruit fly traps made of yellow sticky paper or baited with attractants. Harvest ripe fruits as soon as possible and discard fallen fruits lying on the orchard floor.
Leaf miner: Leaf miner is a small insect that burrows tunnels inside the leaves, causing them to curl and turn brown. Severe infestations can result in yield loss and plant death. To control this pest, spray insecticides containing spinosad or neem oil on the affected leaves. Prune and discard heavily infested leaves to prevent further spread.
Stem borer: Stem borer is a pest that attacks the tree's trunk and branches, causing holes and girdling. The pest bores into the plant and feeds on the sap, leading to wilting and death. To manage this pest, prune and remove the affected branches and apply insecticides containing carbaryl or imidacloprid around the base of the plant.
Regular monitoring of Dialium hexasepalum Harms for signs of disease and pests is essential to prevent their spread and minimize the damage. Always read and follow the instructions on the pesticide label and wear protective clothing while applying them. Taking these measures can help to maintain the health and productivity of your velvet tamarind plant.
