Origin
Dovyalis somalensis Gilg, also known as the Somali tangerine, is a fruit-bearing plant species found in the Horn of Africa, specifically in Somalia, Djibouti, and Ethiopia.
Common Names
Aside from Somali tangerine, Dovyalis somalensis Gilg is also commonly known as omdurman, kalinga, and koliche.
Uses
The fruit of Dovyalis somalensis Gilg is sweet and tart, and is often consumed fresh or used in jams and jellies. The leaves and roots of the plant are also used in traditional medicine in Somalia, Djibouti, and Ethiopia to treat various ailments, including stomachaches and respiratory illnesses. The wood of the plant is used for fuel and in construction.
General Appearance
Dovyalis somalensis Gilg is a thorny, evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to six meters tall. The leaves are oval-shaped, glossy, and dark green, with toothed edges. The flowers are small, white, and inconspicuous, with a slightly unpleasant odor. The fruit is round, orange-yellow in color, and about the size of a cherry. It has a thick, leathery skin and a juicy, acidic pulp with small seeds.
Light Requirements
Dovyalis somalensis Gilg plant requires full sunlight for its optimal growth. The plant cannot tolerate too much shade as it may lead to poor growth and development. Therefore, the plant must be grown in an open space where it can get enough sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires warm temperatures for its growth and survival. The Dovyalis somalensis Gilg plant cannot tolerate frost and extremely cold temperatures. Therefore, it should be grown in areas with mild to warm temperatures, ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be able to retain some moisture, but it should not be waterlogged as it may lead to root rot. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can grow in various soil types, including sandy loam, loamy soils, and clay loam, as long as they meet the above conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Dovyalis somalensis, also known as the Somali Wild Apricot, is a plant native to Somalia but can also be found in other African countries. It can be grown in both sunny and shady areas and can tolerate various soil types. The plant usually grows up to about 10 feet high and has a spread of about 15 feet. To cultivate Dovyalis somalensis, it's essential to plant it in well-draining soil, preferably sandy. The pH level of the soil should range from 6.0 to 8.0. To promote healthy growth, it is recommended to amend the soil with organic matter before planting.
Watering Needs
Like any other plant, watering is an essential aspect of caring for Dovyalis somalensis. The plant needs regular and consistent watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should never be allowed to dry out completely. It is recommended to water the plant deeply and less frequently to encourage deep rooting. During the dormant season, the plant doesn't require much watering, and it's essential to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged as this can harm the plant's roots.
Fertilization
Dovyalis somalensis is not a heavy feeder, but it can still benefit from fertilization. During the growing season, it's recommended to fertilize the plant every two months using a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season as it may not require much food during this time.
Pruning
Pruning is another essential aspect of caring for Dovyalis somalensis. The plant requires little pruning, and it's advisable to only remove broken, diseased, or dead wood. The best time to prune the plant is during the dormant season when the plant isn't growing much. Pruning can help maintain the plant's shape and promote healthy growth. It's advisable to use sterilized pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases from one plant to another.
Propagation of Dovyalis somalensis Gilg
Dovyalis somalensis Gilg is a woody plant species native to East Africa. It is commonly propagated through seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Dovyalis somalensis Gilg are small, brown, and oval-shaped. They can be collected from mature fruits that have fallen off the tree. Before sowing, the seeds should be treated by soaking them in hot water for around 24 hours to break down the outer seed coating and promote germination. After treatment, the seeds can be sown in seed trays filled with a well-draining potting mix. The trays should be kept moist and placed in a warm and bright location. The seeds usually take around 3 to 4 weeks to germinate.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings are a common and straightforward method of propagating Dovyalis somalensis Gilg. Semi-hardwood cuttings around 10 to 15 cm long can be taken from the parent plant during the growing season. The leaves on the lower half of the stem should be removed, leaving only a few leaves on the upper half. The cuttings should be dipped into a rooting hormone and then planted in a well-draining potting mix in a propagator. The propagator should be kept at a warm temperature and high humidity to encourage rooting, and the cuttings should be misted regularly. After around 8 to 10 weeks, the cuttings should be rooted and can be transplanted into larger pots.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting is a common propagation method for Dovyalis somalensis Gilg, especially for commercially grown plants. The rootstock used can be any suitable Dovyalis species, while the scion should be taken from a mature, disease-free, and good fruit-producing Dovyalis somalensis Gilg tree. The grafting should be done during the growing season, and the cut should be made by slicing through the bark of both the rootstock and the scion. The two parts should then be joined and secured together with grafting tape. The grafted plant should be kept in a warm and bright location and misted regularly until the graft union forms. After that, the plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the field.
Disease Management
Dovyalis somalensis Gilg is typically a disease-resistant plant. However, certain environmental factors such as high humidity and poor air circulation can cause the plant to develop fungal and bacterial diseases. These diseases can weaken the plant and reduce its yield. Here are some common diseases that might affect Dovyalis somalensis Gilg:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes the leaves and fruits to develop dark lesions. The affected tissues then turn brown and die off. To manage this disease, prune out affected tissues and avoid overhead watering to minimize fungal spores' spread.
- Crown Rot: Crown rot causes the base of the stem to rot, leading to the wilting and death of the entire plant. Overwatering and poor soil drainage can cause this condition. To prevent crown rot, provide excellent drainage and avoid overwatering.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery coating to form on the leaves. It can reduce the plant's ability to perform photosynthesis and eventually weaken the plant. To manage this disease, ensure adequate air circulation around the plant and apply fungicides if necessary.
Pest Management
Dovyalis somalensis Gilg can attract various insects, including pests that can significantly damage the plant. Here are some common pests that might affect Dovyalis somalensis Gilg:
- Fruit Fly: Fruit flies are small, yellowish-brown flies that lay eggs in the fruit. The maggots then feed on the fruit, causing it to rot. To manage this pest, use insecticides and remove any fallen fruit from the ground.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects are small insects that feed on the plant's sap. They appear as small bumps on the leaves and stems. They can cause yellowing of the leaves and a reduction in yield. To manage scale insects, prune out affected tissues and use insecticides if necessary.
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to wilt and curl. They can also spread viral diseases. To manage aphids, use insecticides and provide an environment that attracts natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Regular monitoring of the plant is essential to detect pests and diseases early enough and intervene quickly. Proper cultural practices such as regular watering, fertilization, and pruning can also boost the plant's natural defense mechanism against pests and diseases.
