Overview
Dovyalis engleri Gilg, also known as Engler’s tamarind or African wild orange, is a small tree or shrub that is native to Africa. The plant is known for its edible fruit at maturity and has medicinal properties that have been used traditionally by communities in Africa.Appearance
The Engler’s tamarind tree or shrub can grow up to a height of 2-4 meters and has a crown about 2.5-3 meters in width. The bark of the tree is fissured, with small spines on the branches. The leaves are pinnate, with small leathery leaflets, and can be either deciduous or evergreen, depending on the location. The plant produces flowers that are small and yellow-green in color, and the fruit is green at first and eventually ripens to a yellow-orange color.Common Names
The plant has several common names depending on the locality. In Zimbabwe, it is known as Mutamba, while in Uganda, it is referred to as Musiri. The plant is also commonly referred to as Engler’s tamarind or African wild orange.Uses
The fruit of Dovyalis engleri is edible and has been used by people in Africa for its nutritional properties. The fruit can be eaten fresh, cooked, or used to make juices, jams, or other food products. The plant’s bark and leaves have medicinal properties and are used traditionally in Africa to treat a range of ailments, including malaria, fever, stomachache, and diarrhea. The plant is also used in traditional rituals and ceremonies in parts of Africa. In conclusion, Dovyalis engleri Gilg is a small tree or shrub native to Africa, known for its edible fruit and medicinal properties. The plant has several common names depending on the locality and has been used traditionally in Africa for a range of purposes.Growth Conditions for Dovyalis engleri Gilg
Light: Dovyalis engleri Gilg thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It grows best when exposed to six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. However, it can tolerate some degree of shade.
Temperature: The plant prefers warm temperatures and does not tolerate frost. It thrives in temperatures ranging from 18°C to 28°C. The ideal range for Dovyalis engleri Gilg is between 20°C to 25°C. Temperatures below 0°C can cause the plant's leaves to wither and may kill it entirely.
Soil: Dovyalis engleri Gilg prefers well-drained soils that are neutral or slightly acidic. The plant does not grow well in extremely alkaline or saline soils. It thrives in soils with pH levels ranging from 5.5-6.5. Soil with high organic matter content enhances its growth. The plant grows better in sandy loam and loam soil types.
Water: The plant requires regular watering for optimal growth. It prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. Overwatering can cause root rot and lead to the plant's death.
Nutrients: Dovyalis engleri Gilg requires regular fertilization to support its growth. It requires a fertilizer rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) in the ratio of 10:10:10 during the growing season.
Pruning: Pruning of Dovyalis engleri Gilg is essential to shape the plant and control its size. The plant requires pruning to remove weak and damaged branches. It is best to prune the plant during the dry season when the plant is dormant.
Cultivation methods
Dovyalis engleri Gilg is a tropical plant species and usually requires a warm environment to grow. To cultivate this plant, it should be planted in soil that is well-draining. This plant prefers acidic to a slightly alkaline soil with a pH of 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter to improve nutrient retention and support growth. The plant should be placed in a location with good sun exposure and sheltered from strong winds.
Watering needs
Dovyalis engleri Gilg needs to be watered frequently but not excessively. The frequency of watering depends on the temperature, humidity, and the type of soil. Water should be applied directly to the base of the plant to ensure that the water reaches the roots. It is advisable to water the plant in the morning or late afternoon when temperatures are low. During dry seasons, the plant should be watered more often to prevent wilting and damage.
Fertilization
The best time to fertilize Dovyalis engleri Gilg is during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is suitable for this plant. A fertilizer high in potassium is particularly recommended as it helps with fruiting and flavor development. It is important to avoid overfertilizing the plant, which can lead to excessive growth and reduced fruit quality.
Pruning
Pruning Dovyalis engleri Gilg should be done during the dormant season, usually in late winter or early spring. Pruning should be done to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches. It is also advisable to prune the plant to control its size and to shape it. Pruning should be done using clean and sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant. A mild sterilizing solution should also be used to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Dovyalis engleri Gilg
Dovyalis engleri Gilg, commonly known as Engler's Tamarind, is a shrub that is native to tropical Africa. It is known for its sweet and sour edible fruits that resemble small tamarinds, which are commonly used in jams and jellies. If you are interested in propagating this plant, here are a few propagation methods to consider:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Dovyalis engleri Gilg is through seed propagation. You can obtain fresh seeds from a mature plant and soak them in water for 24 hours before planting in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and keep them in a warm, humid environment. It may take several weeks or months for the seeds to germinate, so be patient. Once they have developed into small seedlings, you can transplant them to their permanent location.
Cuttings Propagation
Another method of propagating Dovyalis engleri Gilg is through cutting propagation. Choose a healthy stem tip that is at least 10 cm long, with several leaves and no flowers or fruits. Dip the cut end into rooting hormone and plant it into a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and cover the container with plastic to create a humid environment. The cutting should root within a few weeks, at which point you can remove the plastic cover and gradually expose the new plant to more sunlight.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is a propagation technique that involves creating a small wound on the stem and encouraging the plant to develop roots at that point. It is a more advanced propagation method, but it can result in a more established plant in a shorter period of time. To air layer Dovyalis engleri Gilg, choose a healthy stem and make a small cut on the bark. Apply rooting hormone to the exposed wood and wrap moss around the cut, securing it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep the moss moist and wait for the plant to develop roots. Once roots have formed, cut the stem below the moss and plant the new plant into a well-draining soil mix.
Propagation of Dovyalis engleri Gilg through seeds, cuttings or air layering can be a rewarding process for gardeners looking to expand their collections or grow more fruit. Make sure to choose healthy plants, use well-draining soil mixes and keep the plants in a warm, humid environment for best results.
Disease and Pest Management for Dovyalis Engleri Gilg
Dovyalis Engleri Gilg, commonly known as Afromontane Wild Apricot, is a small tree or shrub that grows in various parts of Madagascar. Although it is a relatively hardy plant, it can still fall prey to several pests and diseases that can cause significant harm. Here are a few common issues and management strategies for Dovyalis Engleri Gilg.
Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes small, circular, sunken spots on the leaves, stems, flowers, and fruit of the plant. To manage anthracnose, it is essential to remove all infected plant material and treat the plant with a fungicide. Copper-based fungicides work well, as do those containing Mancozeb.
Shot Hole Disease: Shot Hole Disease is another prevalent disease for Dovyalis Engleri Gilg, causing small, brown-edged spots on the leaves of the plant. The spots will eventually dry up and fall out, leaving behind round holes. The best management strategy for Shot Hole Disease is to water the plant adequately and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also help control the symptoms.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are a common pest for Dovyalis Engleri Gilg, and they can cause serious damage if left unchecked. The mites feed on the plant's sap, leaving behind small, yellowed spots on the foliage. To control spider mites, spray the plant with water to dislodge the mites and use an insecticidal soap to manage their populations.
Thrips: Thrips are another common pest that can plague Dovyalis Engleri Gilg. These tiny insects feed on the leaves of the plant, leaving behind a silvery appearance. Thrips can also transmit viruses, making them particularly harmful to the plant. To control thrips, use yellow sticky traps to capture them, prune out any heavily infested leaves, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage their populations.
Remember to always follow the instructions given on the pesticide label and wear any necessary safety equipment while handling them. By paying attention to your plant's health and the signs of disease or pest infestation, you can help keep your Dovyalis Engleri Gilg healthy and thriving.
