Overview
Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms, also known as "kei apple," is a tree species native to the tropical regions of Africa. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is known for its edible fruit.Appearance
This plant species grows up to 20 meters tall in the wild and is characterized by its large and broad crown. The bark of the tree is dark brown, while its leaves are shiny, elliptical, and dark green. During the blooming season, which occurs from June to August, Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms produces small, white to yellow flowers arranged in drooping clusters. The fruits of the species are spherical and can be up to 6cm in diameter, with a green, tough skin that eventually turns yellow when ripe.Common Names
Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms is commonly known by different names in various African countries. For instance, in Cameroon, it is referred to as "ekie," while in Nigeria, it is known as "Agbalumo" or "African star apple." Ghanaians call it "Kli" while in Uganda, it is known as "Mutere."Uses
The fruit of Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms is edible and is consumed fresh or processed to juices, wines, or jams. It is rich in vitamin C, calcium, and iron, making it a nutritious addition to the human diet. In traditional African medicine, the bark of the tree is used to treat various ailments such as malaria, diarrhea, fever, and stomach disorders. The plant's wood is also used for making utensils and tools, as it is durable and resistant to termite infestations. Furthermore, Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms plays a crucial role as a shade tree in agroforestry, ensuring the optimal growth of other crops planted under it.Light Requirements
Dialium klainei prefers bright, indirect sunlight but can tolerate some direct sunlight. It is not recommended to place it in low light conditions as this will slow down the growth and can make it susceptible to diseases.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but should not be exposed to temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius as this could harm the roots.
Soil Requirements
Dialium klainei thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should also have a pH range between 5.5 and 6.5. It is essential to avoid soils that tend to retain too much water as this can cause root rot. Adding peat moss or perlite to the soil mixture can help improve drainage.
Cultivation methods for Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms
Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and a sunny location for healthy growth. It can be grown in both container and ground culture.
The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. To propagate through seeds, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before sowing in well-draining soil. For stem cuttings, choose healthy stems and plant them in well-draining soil mixed with perlite and vermiculite.
The plant requires well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level. The soil should be rich in nutrients and organic matter.
Watering needs for Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms
Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
The plant should be watered less frequently during the winter season, but the soil should never completely dry out.
Fertilization of Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms
The plant requires regular fertilization to thrive. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be used every two to three months during the growing season.
Organic fertilizers such as compost or manure can also be used to enrich the soil. However, it is important to avoid overfertilization as it can lead to leaf burn and reduced growth.
Pruning of Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms
Pruning is an essential part of caring for Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms. It helps to maintain the plant's shape, promote healthy growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
The plant should be pruned in the late winter or early spring before new growth starts. It is important to use sharp, clean tools to prevent the spread of disease.
The plant can be pruned to maintain its size and shape, and to promote branching. It is also important to remove any dead or diseased branches or leaves to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation methods of Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms
Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms, also known as the West African Black velvet tree, is a tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It can be propagated by various methods, including:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is one of the most common methods of propagating Dialium klainei. The seeds are collected from the mature pods that have already dried up and fallen to the ground. The seeds are then sown in well-draining soil, with a layer of sand on top, in plastic bags or pots.
The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, and the container should be placed in a warm and well-lit area, with temperatures between 20°C and 25°C. Germination takes between three and four weeks, and the seedlings can either remain in the container or be transported to a larger container.
Cuttings propagation
Dialium klainei can also be propagated through cuttings. Softwood cuttings, taken from the tree's new growth, are dipped in hormone rooting powder, and placed in well-draining soil. The cuttings should have at least two or three leaves and should be at least six inches long.
The container should be placed in a warm, shaded area, with temperatures between 20°C and 25°C. After four to six weeks, the cutting should have rooted and can be transported to a larger container.
Air-layering propagation
Air-layering propagation is another method of propagation for Dialium klainei. A branch of the tree is selected, and a slanted cut is made on the stem. A rooting hormone is applied to the cut, and a ball of moist soil is wrapped around the cut.
After several weeks, roots will have formed, and the branch can be cut off from the mother plant and potted separately. This method of propagation is slow but has a high success rate since the new plant retains the characteristics of the mother plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms
Dialium klainei Pierre ex Harms, commonly known as the forest plateau cherry, is a tropical tree native to Western Africa. As with any plant, it is susceptible to a variety of diseases and pest infestations that can harm or even kill the tree. Here is some information on the common diseases and pests that might affect Dialium klainei and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Dialium klainei is anthracnose, which is a fungal infection. Symptoms of this disease may include dark, sunken spots on the leaves, as well as twig dieback. To manage this disease, it's important to remove any infected leaves or twigs and dispose of them properly. In addition, you can apply a fungicide to the tree to help prevent further spread of the disease.
Another disease that Dialium klainei is susceptible to is powdery mildew, which appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and can cause them to yellow and fall off. This disease can be managed by improving air circulation around the tree and pruning any branches that prevent proper air flow. Additionally, you can apply a fungicide to the tree to help suppress the powdery mildew.
Common Pests
Dialium klainei can be infested with a variety of pests, including aphids, scale insects, and borers. Aphids and scales feed on the sap of the tree, which can lead to leaf yellowing and curling, stunted growth, and distorted foliage. To manage these pests, you can use insecticidal soaps or oils, or release natural predators such as ladybugs.
Borers, on the other hand, are a type of beetle whose larvae bore into the tree trunk, causing extensive damage. Signs of borer infestation include small holes in the bark, sawdust-like material, and dead branches. To manage borers, it's important to keep the tree healthy by providing adequate water, nutrients, and sunlight. In severe cases, you may need to remove and replace the tree.
In conclusion, managing the diseases and pests that commonly affect Dialium klainei is crucial for its longevity and overall health. By staying vigilant and taking appropriate measures when necessary, you can help ensure that your forest plateau cherry tree remains healthy and productive for years to come.
