Overview:
Diplocyclos schliebenii (Harms) C.Jeffrey is a flowering plant species in the family Cucurbitaceae. This plant is a climber vine that trails over trees and shrubs in the savannahs and forests of West and Central Africa.
Common Names:
Diplocyclos schliebenii is commonly known as Akepe in Ivory Coast, Bédia in Cameroon, and Akhar in Nigeria. It is also called the African snake cucumber.
Appearance:
The plant has slender and elongated stems that can grow up to 10 meters long. It has thin branches with tendrils that allow it to climb. The leaves are large, green, and heart-shaped. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that are about 1cm in diameter and are followed by green, oblong fruits that turn yellowish-green or orange when ripe. The fruits are about 10cm long and are covered with white spots. The seeds are flat, brown, and round.
Uses:
Diplocyclos schliebenii is traditionally used in African medicine to treat snakebites, throat inflammation, and fever. The plant is high in antioxidants and has been proven to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. The leaves and stems are also used as vegetable in many African cuisines. The fruits, when mature, have a sweet taste and are used in making salads and soups.
Growth Conditions of Diplocyclos schliebenii (Harms) C.Jeffrey
Diplocyclos schliebenii (Harms) C.Jeffrey is a perennial plant that is native to tropical Africa. To grow this plant successfully, you need to provide the plant with the right conditions. The appropriate growth conditions for Diplocyclos schliebenii include:
Light Requirements
Diplocyclos schliebenii requires bright light to grow. Therefore, you need to place the plant in a well-lit area, where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight every day. If you are growing the plant indoors, you can use artificial lighting to supplement natural light.
Temperature Requirements
Diplocyclos schliebenii prefers warm temperatures between 68 and 86 °F (20–30 °C). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures during the night but cannot withstand frost or freezing temperatures. Therefore, you need to protect the plant from cold temperatures and provide it with a warm environment.
Soil Requirements
The soil-type that Diplocyclos schliebenii prefers is well-draining with a pH range of 6.0 – 7.0. You need to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as the plant is susceptible to root rot. You can improve the soil's quality by adding organic matter such as compost or manure to enhance its fertility.
In conclusion, Diplocyclos schliebenii (Harms) C.Jeffrey requires adequate bright light, warm temperature, and well-draining soil with moderate fertility to grow successfully.
Cultivation
Diplocyclos schliebenii, also known as the African sponge cucumber, is a fast-growing plant that is easy to cultivate. The plant is well suited for warm climates with a temperature range of 25°C to 35°C. The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5, and it requires a lot of sunlight to thrive. It can be grown in open fields or containers, and the seeds can be sown directly into the ground or transplanted from seedlings.
Watering Needs
The African sponge cucumber needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil must be kept moist but not waterlogged. Over-watering can cause the roots to rot, so it is important to maintain a balance. During the dry season, the plant requires more water to keep the soil moist. It is recommended to water the plant early in the day to allow time for the leaves to dry before the onset of nightfall.
Fertilization
To promote the growth of the African sponge cucumber, it is necessary to fertilize the plant regularly. The use of organic fertilizers is recommended. The application of compost, well-rotted manure, or worm castings can help provide the necessary nutrients for the plant. Alternatively, commercial fertilizers can be used. The recommended fertilizer ratio is 5-10-10 or 10-10-10. Fertilizers should be applied in small amounts during the growing season and before planting.
Pruning
Pruning of the African sponge cucumber is essential to promote the development of new growth and to keep the plant healthy. The plant is a vine, and the stems can grow up to 4 meters long. To maintain the plant's shape and prevent overgrowth, it is necessary to prune the vines when they begin to exceed their limits. It is also recommended to remove the dead wood, yellow leaves, and any damaged parts of the plant. Pruning must be done carefully to avoid damaging the plant or reducing its productivity.
Propagation of Diplocyclos schliebenii (Harms) C.Jeffrey
Diplocyclos schliebenii is a vigorous, climbing plant that can be easily propagated by stem cuttings or seeds. Here are the propagation methods:
Propagation by stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem that is about 5-6 inches long and has at least 2-3 leaves on it. Cut the stem just below a leaf node with a sharp, sterile knife or pruners.
Remove the leaves from the bottom of the cutting and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to encourage rooting. Then, place the cutting in a pot filled with moist, well-draining potting mix and cover it with a plastic bag or a clear plastic cup to create a greenhouse effect and keep the soil moist. Keep the cutting in a bright, warm spot but out of direct sunlight.
After a few weeks, check for roots by gently tugging on the cutting. If the cutting resists, it means roots have formed. At this point, remove the plastic cover and gradually acclimate the cutting to the outside conditions, by leaving it outside for a few hours every day until it's ready to be transplanted into a larger container or planted in the ground.
Propagation by seeds
Diplocyclos schliebenii can also be propagated by seeds. Collect seeds from mature fruit that has turned yellow or brown and started to desiccate. Remove the seeds from the pulp and let them air dry for a few days on a paper towel.
After the drying period, place the seeds in a pot filled with well-draining soil and cover them with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil and keep it moist but not soggy. Then, place the pot in a warm place with bright, indirect light.
Germination usually takes around one to two weeks, sometimes up to four weeks. Once the seedlings have emerged and have developed one or two true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual containers. Gradually acclimate them to outside conditions and, once they are established, plant them in the ground in a spot with full sun or light shade.
Disease and Pest Management for Diplocyclos schliebenii
Diplocyclos schliebenii (Harms) C.Jeffrey, commonly known as African cucumber, is a tropical plant that is susceptible to various diseases and pests. It is essential to manage these concerns properly to promote the plant's growth and optimize yield. Here is a list of common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggested ways of managing them.
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes dark, sunken lesions on the plant's leaves, stems, and fruits. The management options for anthracnose include improving the plant's airflow by avoiding overcrowding and maintaining proper sanitation levels. Fungicides may also be used to manage the disease.
Bacterial Wilt: Bacterial wilt results from a bacterium called Erwinia tracheiphila and is characterized by the sudden wilting of the plant, yellowing of the leaves, and drooping of the vines. To manage bacterial wilt, remove infected plants, maintain proper field sanitation, and use resistant cultivars in areas with a history of the disease.
Cucumber Mosaic Virus: The Cucumber Mosaic Virus causes yellow mottling, distortion, and stunt growth of the plant's leaves. The virus is transmitted by aphids and cucumber beetles. The management options for the virus include controlling the population of aphids and cucumber beetles by using insecticides and removing infected plants.
Common Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from the plant and cause yellowing, stunted growth, and ultimately plant death. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soaps or oils to control their population and improve the plant's water uptake through appropriate irrigation techniques.
Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small sap-sucking pests that cluster on the undersides of leaves and cause yellowing of the leaves. The management options for whiteflies include improving plant nutrition and using insecticidal soaps or oils to control their population.
Cucumber Beetles: Cucumber Beetles feed on the plant's leaves, flowers, and fruits, causing damage and promoting the spread of diseases such as bacterial wilt and cucumber mosaic virus. The management options for cucumber beetles include planting resistant cultivars, using insecticides, and maintaining proper field sanitation.
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests is crucial for the growth and productivity of Diplocyclos schliebenii plant. Monitoring the plant regularly for any signs of diseases or pests is critical in taking preventive measures to prevent severe infestations. Additionally, proper plant care, including adequate water, nutrients, and spacing, will improve the plant's overall health and, thus, its ability to resist or recover from pest and diseases attack.
