Origin
Dobera glabra (Forssk.) Poir. var. subcoriacea Engl. & Gilg is a plant species that belongs to the plant family Salvadoraceae. Its origin is found in African countries, including Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Uganda.
Common Names
The plant Dobera glabra (Forssk.) Poir. var. subcoriacea Engl. & Gilg is commonly known as the African crocodile apple for its strong resemblance to an apple and the crocodiles' fondness for the fruit. It is also referred to by other local names such as Kaduya in Swahili, Garad in Somali, and Qoran in Arabic.
Uses
The Dobera glabra (Forssk.) Poir. var. subcoriacea Engl. & Gilg plant has several traditional medicinal uses in different parts of Africa. The fruit is used to treat fever, diarrhea, and constipation. The bark and roots of the plant are used to treat various diseases such as pneumonia, syphilis, and gonorrhea. The plant's juice is also used as an insecticide to repel and kill mosquitoes.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant is an important fruit tree in some African countries. The fruit, which is green when unripe and yellow when ripe, is edible and is enjoyed by locals and even some wild animals. The plant's wood is also used to make furniture, utensils, and other household objects.
General Appearance
Dobera glabra (Forssk.) Poir. var. subcoriacea Engl. & Gilg plant is a thorny shrub or small tree that can grow up to 10 meters in height. It has a single stem with a rounded crown and a dense canopy. The leaves are leathery, glossy, and alternate, with an oval shape, and can grow up to 8 cm in length.
The plant's flowers are small, white, and fragrant, and they grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is large, round, and fleshy, with a tough outer skin and yellow to orange flesh that surrounds the seeds. The fruit is often eaten by crocodiles, baboons, and other wild animals, which are attracted by its sweet smell.
Overall, the Dobera glabra (Forssk.) Poir. var. subcoriacea Engl. & Gilg plant is a fascinating and useful plant species found in various African countries.
Growth Conditions for Dobera Glabra var. Subcoriacea
Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea is an evergreen tree that is commonly found in arid and semi-arid regions in Africa and the Middle East. The following are the typical growth conditions required for this plant.
Light Requirements
Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea requires full sunlight for optimal growth. It is a heat-tolerant tree that can withstand intense solar radiation. Therefore, it is not recommended to plant this tree in shady areas.
Temperature Requirements
The tree can withstand high temperatures and can even survive in areas with temperatures exceeding 40°C. However, it requires a cool period of about 6 to 8 weeks during the winter season to initiate new growth. The plant is not frost-tolerant and can be damaged or killed by frost.
Soil Requirements
Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It grows well in sandy soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 8.5. The plant prefers soils that are not waterlogged, as it is susceptible to root rot in such conditions. In areas with poor soil fertility, it is recommended to apply fertilizers to enhance its growth.
Cultivation Methods for Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea
Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea is a small tree that grows in areas with dry climates and poor soils. It can tolerate both sandy and loamy soils, but it prefers well-drained soils. The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings, and it requires minimal maintenance once established.
Watering Needs for Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea
Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea is drought-tolerant, but it requires watering during the establishment phase. Young plants should be watered thoroughly once a week, while mature plants can go without water for extended periods. It is crucial to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization for Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea
Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea does not require frequent fertilization, but it can benefit from occasional nutrient boosts. You can apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage healthy growth. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid overfertilizing, as this can damage the plant.
Pruning of Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea
Pruning is not necessary for Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea, but it can be beneficial if you want to control the size and shape of the plant. You can prune the tree after the growing season to remove any dead or damaged branches. Young plants may require training to establish the desired shape, but mature trees generally require minimal pruning.
Propagation of Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea
Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods. Here are some of the propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea need to be collected from mature fruits that are fully ripe. The collected seeds can be sown in trays filled with well-draining soil that is kept moist. The trays can be kept in a greenhouse or a warm, shaded area. It takes about 1-2 months for the seeds to germinate. Once the seedlings are big enough, they can be transferred to individual pots.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is also a viable method for propagating Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea. The best time to take cuttings is during the plant's active growth phase. Cuttings should be taken from healthy stems with a sharp, sterilized knife. The cuttings should be at least 15-20 cm long and stripped of any leaves from their lower half. The cuttings can then be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in well-draining soil that is kept moist. The pots can be kept in a shaded area or under a misting system. It takes about 2-3 months for the cuttings to form roots and grow into healthy plants.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering propagation is a slower method compared to seed and cutting propagation but can be effective for Dobera glabra var. subcoriacea. Air layering involves making a small cut in the stem of the parent plant and inserting a toothpick or small stick to hold it open. Moss and rooting hormone are packed around the wound and wrapped in plastic wrap. The moss needs to be kept moist, and after a few months, roots will start to form in the moss. The new plant can then be cut off and potted in well-draining soil.
Disease management
Dobera glabra is generally resistant to diseases. However, the plant may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and anthracnose, especially in areas with high humidity levels. To manage these diseases, it is important to practice good sanitation and keep the surrounding area clean. Remove infected leaves and debris and do not overwater the plant. Fungicides may also be used, but it is important to follow the label instructions carefully.
Pest management
The common pests that may affect Dobera glabra include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These pests suck out the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of the leaves. To manage these pests, it is important to maintain the cleanliness of the plant and its surroundings. Insecticidal soap, neem oil, and horticultural oil are effective control measures. It is important to follow the label instructions and apply the products in the correct manner and concentration. If the infestation is severe, a professional pest control service may be required.
