Origin
Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis is a plant native to the sub-Saharan African region, specifically in Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Common Names
The plant has several common names, including Natal drypetes, Natal plum, Gebom, Imboso, Mukoma, and Umdoni wezemikhulu.
Uses
Drypetes natalensis is used for medicinal and ornamental purposes. The plant has been traditionally used to treat various conditions such as diarrhea, stomach pains, respiratory ailments, and fever. The bark and roots of the plant contain medicinal properties that inhibit bacterial and fungal infections. The plant is also used for landscaping and gardening because of its attractive foliage and fruit.
General Appearance
Drypetes natalensis is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 10 meters in height. Its bark is gray and rough, while its leaves are shiny, dark green, and ovate in shape. The tree produces small, green or yellow flowers that bloom in clusters. Its fruit is a small, round, fleshy, and purplish-black drupe known as a Natal plum, which contains one or two seeds inside. The tree's roots are shallow and do not go deep into the soil.
Growth Conditions of Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis
Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis is native to Southern Africa, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and riverbanks. The plant requires specific growth conditions to thrive and reach its full potential.
Light Requirements
Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis requires full sunlight to partial shade for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate shade, but it may grow slower and produce fewer fruits. In contrast, exposure to full sunlight can cause the leaves to scorch and turn yellowish. Therefore, a partially shaded location, such as under a high canopy, is ideal for Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis.
Temperature Requirements
Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis is a tropical to subtropical plant that prefers warm temperatures and high humidity. Its optimal temperature range is between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius can be detrimental to the plant, causing leaf drop and stem damage. On the other hand, exposure to high temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius can cause wilting and leaf burn.
Soil Requirements
Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis prefers well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. However, the plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and loamy soils. Soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic, with a value between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant also requires regular watering to keep the soil moist, especially during dry periods.
Cultivation Methods
Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis grows best in areas with high humidity and warm temperatures. It thrives in well-draining soil and under partial shade or full sun. Propagation can be done through cuttings or seeds.
When planting, loosen the soil and mix in organic matter such as compost. Dig a hole slightly larger than the plant's root ball and plant it at the same depth as it was in the container. Firmly press the soil around the base.
Watering Needs
Water Drypetes natalensis regularly, especially during the growing season. Keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Reduce watering during winter to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
Ensure the plant receives enough water during periods of drought to keep the soil moderately moist. The frequency of watering may vary depending on the type of soil and the climatic conditions.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced fertilizer to Drypetes natalensis every three months during the growing season to boost growth. A slow-release fertilizer can be used instead.
Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flower production.
Pruning
Prune Drypetes natalensis in late winter or early spring to remove any damaged or diseased branches. It can also be pruned to shape and promote a bushier growth habit. Cut back to just above a healthy bud or branch junction.
Regularly remove any suckers that emerge from the plant's base or roots to prevent overcrowding and encourage air circulation.
Propagation of Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis
Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis can be propagated either through seeds or vegetative methods like cuttings, layering, and grafting.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis are easily collected from the fruiting trees during the fruiting season. The collected seeds can be sown in seedbeds or directly in pots filled with suitable soil. The seeds should be placed into the soil at a depth of 1-2 cm and watered regularly. Germination can take anywhere from 2 to 8 weeks depending on the soil and environmental conditions.
Fresh seeds often have higher germination rates than old seeds, and it is recommended to use fresh seeds to propagate this plant.
Vegetative Propagation Methods
Cuttings
Cuttings of Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis can be taken from a healthy, mature parent tree during the growing season. Cuttings should be approximately 10-15 cm in length and should have no less than two nodes. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-prepared soil mix. The cuttings ought to be watered regularly and kept out of direct sunlight until roots have formed. Rooting takes place within four to six weeks.
Layering
Layering is an easy method of propagating young trees of Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis. A branch that is about one year old should be selected, and the branch’s bark is peeled off to make it slightly wounded. The branch is thereafter bent and dug into the soil with the shoot's tip still exposed above the soil. The shoot is then pinned in place with pegs or bent wire. As the branch grows, it forms roots, and after about 12 months, it can be cut off and re-planted elsewhere.
Grafting
Grafting is another technique that can be used to produce Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis plants. This procedure involves joining plant tissues from two different individuals with compatible genetics. It is commonly used for propagation in fruit trees and other plants.
The success of grafting as a method of propagation depends on the type of rootstock used, proper care of the plant during the healing period, and healthy tissue being used so that the graft will take effectively. Grafting is usually done in the spring or winter.
Disease Management
Plant diseases can significantly reduce the health and productivity of Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis. Here are some common diseases that may affect the plant and how to manage them:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, dark spots on the leaves. The spots may enlarge and cause the leaves to fall off. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicides may also be used to control the disease.
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves, stems, and fruit of the plants. The disease can cause defoliation and fruit rot. To manage anthracnose, prune the affected areas and destroy infected plant debris. Fungicides may be applied to prevent the spread of the disease.
Canker
Canker is a bacterial or fungal disease that causes sunken lesions on the stems, branches, and trunks of the plant. The lesions can girdle the plant and cause it to wilt. To manage canker, prune the affected areas and destroy infected plant debris. Fungicides or bactericides may be used to control the disease.
Pest Management
Pests can also harm Drypetes natalensis (Harv.) Hutch. var. natalensis. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant and how to manage them:
Mites
Mites are small insects that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to become yellow and distorted. To manage mites, spray the plant with water to dislodge the mites or use an insecticidal soap or oil spray.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing large holes in the leaves. To manage caterpillars, remove them by hand or use a biological control, such as Bacillus thuringiensis, or a chemical insecticide.
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to become yellow and distorted. To manage aphids, spray the plant with water to dislodge them or use an insecticidal soap or oil spray.
