Overview
Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Lour.) Merr. subsp. eriocarpum (Decne.) Ihlenf. is a plant species that belongs to the family of Cucurbitaceae. It is also commonly known as the Hairy-fruited Devils, Ivory Coast cucumber, and the African ivy gourd. The plant is native to tropical Africa and can be found growing in various countries, including Angola, Congo, Ethiopia, Ghana, Nigeria, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zambia.
Appearance
The Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Lour.) Merr. subsp. eriocarpum (Decne.) Ihlenf. plant is a woody and perennial climbing vine that can grow up to 10 meters in length. The stems are thin, wiry, and minimally branched, and the leaves are simple, alternate, and shaped somewhat like a heart, with a toothed margin. The flowers are small, male and female, and are greenish-yellow or yellowish-white in color; the fruit is an ovoid or elongated berry that's covered with dense and soft hairs, making it look somewhat woolly, from which it gets its name.
Uses
The Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Lour.) Merr. subsp. eriocarpum (Decne.) Ihlenf. plant has various uses in traditional African medicine. The fruit juice is used to treat fever and skin ailments such as ringworm and eczema. The plant infusion is also regarded as purgative, emetic, and laxative. Additionally, the leaves or fruits are used as an ingredient in cosmetics and soap production primarily for its saponin content. The fruit is edible, although it has been reported as unpalatable by some people due to its hairy exterior, which can be uncomfortable to the mouth.
Aside from its medicinal uses, the Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Lour.) Merr. subsp. eriocarpum (Decne.) Ihlenf. plant is used for ornamental purposes, especially in landscapes and indoors due to its attractive and lush foliage. It is a resilient, low-maintenance plant that grows well in humid conditions, making it an ideal plant for people who enjoy having indoor plants that require little upkeep.
Growth Conditions for Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Lour.) Merr. subsp. eriocarpum (Decne.) Ihlenf.
Light: Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Lour.) Merr. subsp. eriocarpum (Decne.) Ihlenf. is a tropical plant and requires bright, indirect sunlight. The recommended exposure to light is between 1500-2000 foot-candles. Direct sunlight can scorch and damage the leaves and negatively impact growth.
Temperature: The ideal temperature for Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Lour.) Merr. subsp. eriocarpum (Decne.) Ihlenf. growth is between 18-27°Celsius. Temperatures that fall below 10°Celsius can harm this plant and result in wilting and stunted growth. The plant can tolerate high temperatures but may require more frequent watering under hot conditions.
Soil Requirements: Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Lour.) Merr. subsp. eriocarpum (Decne.) Ihlenf. prefers moist, well-draining soil with high organic matter content. The pH level of the soil should range between 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should also be rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. A mixture of sandy loam soil and organic compost is ideal for this plant. The roots of the plant are sensitive to standing water, and waterlogged soil may lead to rotting and eventual death of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Lour.) Merr. subsp. eriocarpum (Decne.) Ihlenf. is a climbing plant that grows well in tropical regions with high humidity. This plant can adapt to different soil types, but it thrives best in well-draining soil. The planting should be done in areas with sufficient sunlight and space for the plant to grow to its full potential.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering depends on the weather conditions and the characteristics of the soil. It is essential to water the plant early in the morning or late in the day to prevent sunscald damage.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is essential for the plant's healthy growth and development. A balanced fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every three to four weeks during the growing season. It is crucial to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to shape the plant and stimulate vigorous growth. The best time to prune is during the beginning of the growing season. It is recommended to cut back one-third of the plant's growth, focusing on the older branches. Dead or diseased branches should be pruned as soon as possible to prevent the spread of infections. Regular pruning helps to maintain the plant's size and shape and improves its overall appearance.
Propagation of Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Lour.) Merr. subsp. eriocarpum (Decne.) Ihlenf.
Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Lour.) Merr. subsp. eriocarpum (Decne.) Ihlenf., commonly known as the velvet seed plant, is a tropical climbing plant that grows in the forest areas of Africa. It is a popular ornamental plant, and its propagation can be done by several methods, including:
Seed propagation
D. zanguebarium can be propagated using its seeds. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits and sown immediately. The seedlings should be kept in a warm and humid environment. Once the seedlings have grown tall enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Cutting propagation
The plant can be propagated vegetatively using cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the stem and planted directly into the soil. The cuttings should be placed in a warm, humid environment until they develop roots. The plant can also be propagated using air-layering.
Division propagation
D. zanguebarium can also be propagated by dividing mature plants. The plant should be carefully uprooted and cut into two or more sections, ensuring that each section has enough roots. The sections should be replanted immediately into individual pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Lour.) Merr. subsp. eriocarpum (Decne.) Ihlenf.
Dicerocaryum zanguebarium (Lour.) Merr. subsp. eriocarpum (Decne.) Ihlenf., commonly known as "Velvet Leaf" or "Mti Mkubwa" in Swahili, is a shrub that belongs to the Melastomataceae family. While this plant is generally hardy, it can still be susceptible to pests and diseases, which could potentially damage or kill the plant. As a gardener or grower, it's essential to know the common diseases and pests that might affect this plant, as well as effective ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
One of the common fungal diseases that may affect Dicerocaryum zanguebarium is powdery mildew, a disease that appears as a white powdery film on the leaves. It usually starts in humid or damp climates and tends to worsen in dry conditions. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and shoots, increase air circulation around the plant, and ensure adequate sun exposure. As a preventive measure, it's essential to avoid overwatering and apply a fungicide before the onset of the disease.
Anthractnose is another fungal disease that might affect this plant, causing wilting and dark spots on the leaves. To prevent Anthractnose, ensure that the plant has good drainage and avoid overhead watering. If the disease is already present, remove infected leaves, increase plant spacing, and apply a fungicide recommended for this disease.
Common Pests
One common pest that might affect Dicerocaryum zanguebarium is spider mites. Spider mites suck sap from the underside of leaves, causing them to yellow and drop. To manage these pests, it's essential to increase humidity levels around the plant to minimize their reproduction rates. You may also use chemical pesticides such as insecticidal soap, neem oil, or horticultural oil.
Caterpillars, such as the leaf roller moth caterpillar, can also damage Dicerocaryum zanguebarium by eating their leaves and flowers. Some of the effective ways of preventing caterpillars include removing any debris around the plant, handpicking any visible caterpillars, and using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) if the infestation is severe.
Conclusion
Dicerocaryum zanguebarium is a beautiful and valuable shrub whose health, vigor, and productivity can be threatened by diseases and pests. Knowing the common diseases and pests that affect this plant and effective ways to manage them is essential to ensure that the plant grows to its maximum potential. Whether through preventive measures or reactive responses, the growth and vitality of Dicerocaryum zanguebarium is in our hands.
