Dictyophleba ochracea (K.Schum. ex Hallier f.) Pichon var. glabrata (Hallier f.) Pichon
Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata, commonly known as the Smooth Dictyophleba, is a plant species that belongs to the family Annonaceae. It is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that is native to tropical Africa.
Appearance
The Smooth Dictyophleba has a smooth, light gray bark and grows up to 10 meters tall. Its leaves are dark green, shiny, and oblong or oval-shaped. The tree produces small, yellow to brown flowers that have a sweet fragrance. The fruit of the plant is an oval, greenish-yellow berry that contains numerous seeds.
Common Names
Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata is known by several common names, including Smooth Dictyophleba, Ochraceous Dictyophleba, and Mbaula.
Uses
The plant has various uses, including medicinal and culinary purposes. In traditional medicine, the bark, leaves, and roots are used to treat fever, toothache, stomach ache, and dysentery. The fruit of the plant is also used to make jam and a refreshing drink. Additionally, the wood of the Smooth Dictyophleba is used for carving and making utensils.
Light Requirements
Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata prefers bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can burn the leaves. It is best to place the plant near a window that receives bright, filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 65-75 degrees Fahrenheit. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 55 degrees Fahrenheit, but it is best to avoid placing the plant in areas with temperatures below that range. Avoid placing it near cold drafts or air conditioning units as well.
Soil Requirements
Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata prefers well-draining soil that holds moisture but does not become waterlogged. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy or loamy soils. An ideal soil mixture consists of equal parts potting soil, peat moss, and perlite or coarse sand to ensure proper drainage.
Watering Requirements
Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata prefers evenly moist soil. Allow the top 1-2 inches of soil to dry out before watering again. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues, so it is important to not let the plant sit in standing water.
Fertilizer Requirements
Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata benefits from regular feeding during the growing season. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 2-4 weeks. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant winter months.
Cultivation of Dictyophleba ochracea
Dictyophleba ochracea is a tropical and subtropical plant that thrives in warm temperatures and high humidity. It can grow in a wide range of soils, including heavy clay, loam, and sandy soils. The plant prefers well-draining soil and grows best in partial shade or filtered sunlight.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Dictyophleba ochracea depend on the soil type, temperature, and humidity levels. The plant requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During dry spells, the plant may need watering twice a week. On the other hand, overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. It is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
A balanced fertilizer can help boost the growth and health of Dictyophleba ochracea. Fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, which is between spring and autumn. A slow-release fertilizer can provide a steady supply of nutrients to the plant. However, over-fertilization can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can damage the plant. It is important to follow the recommended fertilization rate and not to fertilize during the winter months.
Pruning
Dictyophleba ochracea requires minimal pruning. However, it is important to remove any dead or damaged leaves, stems, or branches as soon as they appear. Pruning can also help shape the plant and encourage bushier growth. It is recommended to prune after the blooming stage, which usually occurs during the summer months.
Propagation of Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata
Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata can be propagated through both seed and stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds of Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata can be collected from mature fruits and sown in a well-draining seed-starting mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1 cm and kept moist until germination, which usually occurs within 4 to 8 weeks.
The seeds should then be transplanted into individual containers once they have grown a few leaves. Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata prefers a well-draining soil mix with good organic content.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata can also be propagated through stem cuttings taken during the growing season. The cuttings should be taken from healthy stems and should include a few nodes.
Once cut, the stem should be allowed to callus over for a day or two before being planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist and humid until roots start to form.
Once rooted, the cutting can be transplanted into individual containers or into the ground in a suitable location.
Disease Management
Although Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata is generally a healthy plant, it may suffer from a few diseases that can affect its growth and development. Here are some of the common diseases that might affect the plant and their management strategies.
Fungal Diseases
The most common fungal diseases that affect Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata are leaf spot and powdery mildew. Leaf spot is caused by fungal spores that land on the leaves and develop into brown or black spots. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove the affected leaves and dispose of them properly. Avoid watering the leaves and maintain good air circulation around the plant.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove the affected leaves, increase air circulation around the plant, and avoid overhead watering. In severe cases, fungicides may be necessary.
Bacterial Diseases
Bacterial diseases such as soft rot and bacterial blight can also affect Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata. Soft rot causes the stems to become soft and slimy, and the leaves to wilt. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove the affected parts of the plant and avoid overwatering.
Bacterial blight appears as water-soaked spots on the leaves and eventually causes them to turn brown and die. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove the affected leaves and destroy them. Ensure the plants have good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
Dictyophleba ochracea var. glabrata can also be affected by pests such as mealybugs, scale insects, and spider mites. Here are some management strategies to prevent and control pests.
Mealybugs and Scale Insects
These pests appear as small cotton-like masses on the leaves and stems. They suck sap from the plant, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. To manage these pests, manually remove them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Neem oil can also be effective in controlling these pests, as it disrupts their feeding and molting processes.
Spider Mites
Spider mites thrive in hot and dry conditions, and appear as small specks on the underside of leaves. They cause stippling and yellowing of the leaves, and can quickly infest the entire plant. To manage these pests, increase humidity around the plant by misting it regularly. Natural predators, such as ladybugs, can also help in controlling spider mites. In severe cases, treating the plant with insecticidal soap may be necessary.
