Overview
Dovyalis abyssinica (A. Rich.) Warb. is a fruit-bearing tree that belongs to the family Salvadoraceae. It is commonly known as the African wild orange or bush orange tree. This plant is native to several regions in Africa, including Angola, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Senegal and Sudan.
Appearance
The African wild orange tree is easy to recognize because of its unique appearance. It is a small to medium-sized tree that typically grows up to 25 feet tall. The tree has a rounded, dense crown, and its branches are covered with thorns. The leaves are elongated and alternate on the stem, and they have a shiny, dark green appearance. The fruits of the African wild orange tree are small and bright orange in colour, with a diameter of approximately 1 inch. They have a tough skin and pulp that is juicy and slightly acidic, containing several small seeds.
Uses
The fruits of the African wild orange tree are edible and have a sour, somewhat tart taste. The fruits are consumed fresh or used to make jams, jellies, and other preserves. Additionally, they are commonly used to make sauces that accompany meat dishes in African cuisine. The bark and roots of the tree have medicinal properties, and are used to manage various health issues such as constipation, toothache, and diarrhea. The thorny branches of the tree are often used for fencing, to protect gardens and crop fields from animals.
Cultivation
The African wild orange tree is easy to propagate and grow. It can be cultivated from seeds or cuttings, and once established, it requires minimal care. The tree prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate drought, making it an ideal plant for dry regions. It is a hardy tree that can withstand harsh environmental conditions, including extreme temperatures and strong winds. Because of its numerous benefits, the African wild orange tree is widely grown across several regions in Africa, where it contributes significantly to the economies of local communities.
Growth Conditions for Dovyalis abyssinica
Dovyalis abyssinica (A. Rich.) Warb., commonly known as the African Wild Star Apple, is a native fruit tree of sub-Saharan Africa. It is highly valued for its long shelf life, nutritional value, and medicinal properties. To ensure optimal growth and fruit yield, specific growth conditions must be met.
Light Requirement
As a fruit tree native to the tropics, Dovyalis abyssinica requires full sun exposure to thrive. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Planting the tree in a south-facing direction is desirable to provide sufficient sun exposure and promote optimal photosynthesis.
Temperature Requirement
The African Wild Star Apple tree prefers warm and humid climates. A temperature range of 20-28°C (68-82°F) is ideal for optimal growth and fruit yield. Temperatures below 12°C (54°F) and above 32°C (90°F) can cause stress and affect fruit quality.
Soil Requirement
The Dovyalis abyssinica tree prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5. The use of sandy loam soil that is deep and fertile is highly recommended. Regular soil testing is necessary to monitor soil quality and nutrient availability for the tree.
Additional nutrients may be required to promote optimal growth and fruit yield. The use of organic fertilizers and compost is highly recommended. The tree requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. However, it is also essential to ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging and root rot.
Cultivation
Dovyalis abyssinica is a deciduous tree that is native to Africa, and it is typically cultivated in tropical regions. The plant grows well in various soil types, particularly well-draining soils with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Ideally, the plant should be grown in full sun, where it receives adequate sunlight.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. It is crucial to ensure the soil is evenly moist. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot, which affects the plant's health and growth. In winter, the plant should be watered sparingly.
Fertilization
Applying fertilizers to Dovyalis abyssinica can help improve the plant's growth and health. Fertilizers should be applied during the plant's active growing season, especially in the first two years after planting. A balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 2-1-2 is recommended for optimum growth. Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure can also be applied to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is an important aspect of maintaining the plant's shape and health. In the first year after planting, pruning is done to create a strong framework and remove any damaged or diseased branches. Subsequently, pruning can be done annually to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches and encourage new growth. Pruning should be done during the dormant season to avoid interfering with the plant's fruiting period.
Propagation of Dovyalis abyssinica
Dovyalis abyssinica can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Dovyalis abyssinica can be collected from mature fruits. The collected seeds need to be sun-dried and stored in a cool and dry place until they are ready for planting.
Before planting, the seeds should be pre-soaked in warm water for a day to expedite the germination process. The planting medium should be well-draining and fertile. The seeds can be planted at a depth of 1 to 2 cm below the surface. The soil should be kept moist, and germination should occur in two to three weeks.
Propagation through Cuttings
Cuttings from Dovyalis abyssinica can be taken from semi-hardwood or hardwood stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants during the dormant season.
The cuttings should be about 15 cm in length and should have three to four nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone to improve the chances of success.
The cuttings should be planted in well-draining and fertile soil, either in a pot or directly in a prepared field. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should root in six to eight weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Dovyalis abyssinica
Dovyalis abyssinica (A. Rich.) Warb., commonly known as African yellow or Ethiopian/Abyssinian gooseberry, is a hardy plant that can tolerate dry conditions and poor soils. However, it is still susceptible to diseases and pests that can cause significant damage to the plant and reduce its yield.
Common Diseases
Anthracnose and powdery mildew are the two most common diseases that can affect the D. abyssinica plant. Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can cause dieback, leaf spots, and fruit rot. The symptoms of powdery mildew include a white or grayish non-uniform coating on leaves, stems, and fruits that can reduce photosynthesis and limit plant growth.
Management of Common Diseases
To manage anthracnose, it is crucial to remove infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. The application of fungicides can also help manage the disease, but it is essential to follow the label instructions and safety precautions. Powdery mildew can be managed by keeping the plant dry, avoiding overhead watering, and applying fungicides.
Common Pests
The D. abyssinica plant is susceptible to various pests, including fruit flies, mealybugs, aphids, and scales. Fruit flies can cause significant damage to the fruit, rendering it unsuitable for consumption. Mealybugs, aphids, and scales can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth of the plant by feeding on sap.
Management of Common Pests
Controlling pests on the D. abyssinica plant can be accomplished through cultural, mechanical, and chemical methods. Cultural methods include ensuring that the plant is healthy and well-maintained, including proper hydration and fertilization. Mechanically, pests can be removed by using a strong stream of water or handpicking them. Chemical methods involve the use of pesticides. However, it is essential to choose the appropriate pesticide and follow the label instructions and safety precautions.
