Description of Dovyalis rotundifolia (Thunb.) Thunb. & Harv.
Dovyalis rotundifolia, commonly known as kei apple, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the family Salicaceae. The plant is native to southern Africa and can be found in Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, and South Africa.
General Appearance of Dovyalis rotundifolia
The kei apple usually grows up to 5 meters tall but can reach up to 13 meters in height. The plant has a spreading habit and has multiple stems, and it usually forms a dense thicket. The plant's branches are thorny and bear small, oval-shaped leaves that are light green and glossy. The leaves are around 3 centimeters long and have a serrated margin.
The kei apple's flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and they bloom from August to November. The plant has sweetly scented white flowers, which are followed by large, egg-shaped fruits that are yellow or orange when ripe. The fruits can measure up to 5 centimeters in diameter and have a thin, tough skin that covers the juicy, acid-sweet pulp. The fruit contains two to four large seeds.
Common Names of Dovyalis rotundifolia
The kei apple is also known as umqokolo (Xhosa), ebi (Zulu), mfula (Tsonga), and kioo (Swahili).
Uses of Dovyalis rotundifolia
The kei apple has many uses in traditional African medicine. The fruit is used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach problems. The leaves are used to treat malaria and other fevers. The bark of the kei apple tree is used to treat toothache and other dental problems.
Apart from its medicinal uses, the kei apple fruit is also used for making jams, jellies, and other preserves. The fruit has a tart taste and a high vitamin C content, making it an excellent source of nutrition.
The kei apple's thorny branches make it a popular plant for creating natural fences and barriers.
In conclusion, Dovyalis rotundifolia is a versatile plant that has both medicinal and culinary uses. Its attractive appearance and ability to form natural barriers make it a valuable addition to any garden or landscape.
Light Requirements:
Dovyalis rotundifolia thrive well under full sunlight to partial shade conditions. They prefer to grow in areas where they can receive full sun for at least 6 hours a day. However, they can also survive under partially shaded conditions, making them a suitable plant for a wide range of planting locations.
Temperature Requirements:
This plant is well adapted to warm temperatures, and hence it prefers to grow in regions with hot to moderate temperatures. They can tolerate temperatures below 5? to about 45?. However, it is important to note that the plant is intolerant to frost, which can kill them, and as such, it is essential to protect them from frosty conditions.
Soil Requirements:
Dovyalis rotundifolia grows well in a wide range of soils, including sandy, loam, and clay soils. However, they prefer soils with good drainage and aeration. The optimal pH for the growth of these plants ranges from 5.5 to 7.5, although they can tolerate slightly acidic to alkaline soil conditions. Adding organic matter such as compost, manure, or peat can help boost the quality of the soil and enhance the growth of the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Dovyalis Rotundifolia
For successful cultivation of Dovyalis Rotundifolia, you need to start with high-quality seeds or seedlings. Ensure that you plant in well-draining soil in a location that receives plenty of sunlight.
Propagation can be achieved from seed or from cuttings.
Watering Needs for Dovyalis Rotundifolia
Dovyalis Rotundifolia needs adequate water to establish a root system. Once it is established, it can withstand periods of drought. However, regular watering will help promote healthy growth and fruit development. Water the plant deeply at least once a week during hot, dry months, and reduce the frequency during colder months.
Fertilization for Dovyalis Rotundifolia
Fertilization is crucial for the growth and fruit production of Dovyalis Rotundifolia. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant during the growing seasons, spring and summer, and avoid fertilization during the winter months.
Pruning for Dovyalis Rotundifolia
Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and size of Dovyalis Rotundifolia. It's best to start pruning young plants to encourage a healthy growth habit. Remove any damaged or diseased branches to maintain plant health. Pinch back the tips of new growth to encourage branching and create a bushier look. Prune lightly after fruiting to promote new growth.
Propagation Methods for Dovyalis rotundifolia
Dovyalis rotundifolia can be propagated by various methods that include:
Seeds
The most common method of propagating Dovyalis rotundifolia is through seeds. The seeds are extracted from the ripe fruit and washed to remove the pulp. They are then dried and sown in trays filled with a mixture of sand and compost. The trays are then watered and placed in a shaded area until germination occurs, usually within 3 to 4 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Cuttings
Dovyalis rotundifolia can also be propagated from cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken from the current season's growth are the best. The cuttings should be approximately 10-15 cm long and should have 2 to 3 leaves each. The leaves on the lower part of the cutting should be removed, and a hormone rooting powder should be applied to the base of the stem. The cuttings are then inserted in a mixture of sand and compost, and watering should be done regularly. Root development occurs within 6 to 8 weeks, and after the roots have developed fully, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Layering
Layering is an alternative method of propagating Dovyalis rotundifolia. The process involves bending a low hanging branch or stem down to the ground, making a small wound on the stem, and then covering it with soil or compost. The stem is then held down using floral wire or a similar material. Within a few weeks, roots will develop from the wound. Once the roots have developed fully, the layered stem can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted into a new pot or directly into the ground.
Disease Management
Dovyalis rotundifolia is generally resistant to most plant diseases. Nonetheless, some diseases can still occur on the plant affecting its growth and yield. One common disease that affects the plant is anthracnose. This fungal disease causes the plant's leaves to turn yellow, brown, or black and eventually drop. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant debris regularly. Also, apply fungicides to the plant at the early stages of infection.
Pest Management
Several pests can cause significant damage to Dovyalis rotundifolia. One common pest is the fruit fly. It causes considerable damage to the plant's fruits by laying eggs on them. The larvae then bore into the fruit, causing it to rot. To manage fruit flies, use yellow sticky traps around the plants to attract and trap the pests. You can also use insecticides specifically designed for controlling fruit flies.
The plant can also face infestation by mealybugs. These sap-sucking pests can cause the leaves to yellow and can stunt the plant's growth. A natural way to control mealybugs is by introducing beneficial insects that feed on them, such as ladybugs. Additionally, apply insecticides as a last resort if the infestation is severe.
