Overview
Dovyalis retusa Robyns & Lawalrée is a plant species belonging to the Flacourtiaceae family. It is a small, thorny tree native to tropical Africa. The plant is also known by various common names such as African wild apricot, spiny dombeya, or sour plum.
Description
The African wild apricot plant grows up to 6 meters tall. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and oval-shaped. The plant produces small yellowish-green flowers that attract butterflies and other pollinators. The flowers eventually give way to small, edible fruit, which is yellow or orange when ripe and resembles a small apricot, but with a sour taste and hard seed.
Uses
The fruit of Dovyalis retusa is edible and is used for food and medicinal purposes in some parts of Africa. The fruit is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants and is used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments such as diarrhea and fever. The fruit is also used to make jams and jellies. The leaves, roots, and bark of the plant are used for medicinal purposes as well.
The wood of the plant is used for fuel and for making furniture and other household items in some African communities. The thorny branches of the plant are often used as a natural barrier to protect crops and livestock from predators.
Appearance
Dovyalis retusa is a small, thorny tree with a bushy appearance. Its leaves are bright green and glossy, with a slightly wavy edge. The small, yellowish-green flowers grow in clusters and have five petals. The fruit is small, round, and yellow or orange when ripe, with a hard seed inside. The branches of the tree are thorny, making it difficult to handle without proper protection.
Light Requirements
Dovyalis retusa Robyns & Lawalrée is a tropical shrub that prefers full sun in order to develop properly. It grows best in areas that receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily but can tolerate some shade. However, too much shade can result in poor fruit production.
Temperature Requirements
Dovyalis retusa Robyns & Lawalrée prefers warm temperatures and cannot tolerate frost. It thrives in temperatures ranging from 20 to 35°C (68 to 95°F). For optimal growth, the soil temperature needs to be around 21 to 32°C (70 to 90°F).
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH range should be between 5.5 and 7.5. The soil should also have good water retention ability to ensure that the plant does not remain waterlogged. Heavy clay soils are not suitable for Dovyalis retusa Robyns & Lawalrée.
Cultivation Methods
Dovyalis retusa, also known as the African cucumber or wild apricot, thrives in well-drained soils and full sunlight. It grows well in both humid and dry conditions, making it an ideal plant for cultivation in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant can be propagated from cuttings or seeds. When propagated using cuttings, the cutting should be taken from a mature plant and planted in well-drained moist soil. It is advised to plant the cutting in the growing location immediately to prevent it from drying out.
Watering Needs
The African cucumber requires moderate watering until it is established, after which it can thrive on less water. During the growing season, water the plant frequently to keep the soil slightly moist, but do not overwater as this may cause root rot. In arid regions, regular watering is necessary to keep the plant from drying out. In prolonged dry seasons, additional watering may be required.
Fertilization
Dovyalis retusa requires regular fertilization to maintain its growth and fruit production. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be used. Nitrogen is crucial in promoting growth, while phosphorus helps in root development. Potassium aids in flowering and fruiting. Fertilization should be done during the growing season, preferably every three months, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of the plant and to encourage healthy growth. It should be done during the dormant season to prevent stress to the plant. Cut off any dead branches and suckers. If the plant has grown too tall, it can be pruned to reduce size. Regular pruning also helps to promote fruit production as it encourages new growth and enhances the penetration of light into the plant. Prune the plant using sharp pruning shears and disinfect them after use to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Dovyalis retusa
Dovyalis retusa, commonly known as wild apricot, is a fruit-bearing shrub that belongs to the family Salicaceae. It is a native of tropical Africa and is widely grown as an ornamental plant in many parts of the world. Propagating Dovyalis retusa can be done through several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Dovyalis retusa is through seed propagation. Collect the seeds from fully ripened fruits and sow them in a well-draining soil mixture. Cover the seeds lightly with soil and water well. Place the pot in a warm, bright location, and keep the soil moist. The seeds will usually germinate within 2 to 4 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots when they reach 4 inches tall.
Cuttings Propagation
Another way to propagate Dovyalis retusa is through cuttings. Take 6- to 8-inch semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy stems during the warm months of the year. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder and plant them in a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the soil moist, and place the pot in a warm, bright location. The cuttings should root within 4 to 6 weeks, and can be transplanted into individual pots when they develop roots.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is a propagation method that involves creating roots on the stem of the plant while it is still attached to the parent plant. To propagate Dovyalis retusa through air layering, choose a healthy stem and remove a small section of bark from the stem. Apply rooting hormone powder to the area, wrap the area in moist sphagnum moss, and cover it with plastic wrap to hold in moisture. Roots should form within a few weeks. The new plant can be separated from the parent plant once the roots are well-developed.
Disease Management
Dovyalis retusa is prone to several diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. Here are some of the common diseases affecting the plant:
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by fungi and manifests in the form of small, dark spots on the leaves, which eventually grow larger and spread over the plant. To manage this disease, ensure proper sanitation practices in the garden, including removing infected plant debris and applying fungicides regularly.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that affects the roots of the plant, leading to stunted growth and wilting. To manage this disease, use well-draining soil and avoid overwatering, which creates a conducive environment for the fungus to thrive. Infected plants should be removed promptly.
- Powdery mildew: This disease is caused by a fungus that creates a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To manage this disease, avoid overhead watering, maintain proper spacing and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Just like any other plant, Dovyalis retusa is susceptible to pests. Here are some of the common pests that might affect the plant:
- Aphids: These soft-bodied insects cause damage by sucking sap from the plant, which leads to wilting and stunted growth. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
- Mealybugs: These pests create white, cottony masses on the plant and feed on the sap, leading to stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, prune any affected parts of the plant, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs.
- Mites: These tiny pests suck sap from the plant and cause curling leaves and discolored foliage. To manage mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and maintain good garden sanitation practices.
