Overview
Enantia kummeriae Engl. & Diels, also known as African yellowwood, is a flowering plant species in the Annonaceae family. It is native to West and Central Africa.
Common names
The plant is commonly known as African yellowwood, West African pepper, or Akpi.
Appearance
African yellowwood is a small to the medium-sized tree, and it can grow up to 15 meters tall. The tree has simple, alternate, and oblong leaves that are dark green, glossy, and leathery, with a length of up to 30 cm and a width of up to 12 cm. Its flowers are yellow, with six petals, and its fruit is oblong and woody, with a length of up to 30 cm.
Uses
The seeds of Enantia kummeriae (Akpi) are highly valued in West and Central Africa for their various medicinal properties. The seeds contain fatty acids and are often used in cooking and as an ingredient in cosmetics, soaps, and moisturizers. The bark of the African yellowwood tree is used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as fever, malaria, and diarrhea. The wood of the African Yellowwood, also known as West African Satinwood, is used in carpentry and furniture making.
Light Requirements
Enantia kummeriae is a shade-loving plant that thrives in partially shaded to fully shaded growing conditions. Direct sunlight exposure should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves and affect plant growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to subtropical and tropical regions and cannot tolerate frost or temperatures below 10°C. The optimal temperature range for Enantia kummeriae is between 20°C to 28°C. Extreme heat above 35°C can also negatively impact growth.
Soil Requirements
Enantia kummeriae requires well-draining soil with a pH range between 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter with adequate moisture retention capacity. The ideal soil type should be a loamy soil containing adequate amounts of sand, clay, and silt.
Cultivation
Enantia kummeriae Engl. & Diels is a slow-growing evergreen tree that is native to tropical West Africa. The plant grows up to 25 meters in height and requires a warm and humid environment to thrive. It prefers well-drained soil that is humus-rich, slightly acidic, and is prone to drying out to the slightest degree. It can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
Watering
The Enantia kummeriae tree requires frequent watering, especially during the dry season. However, it is vital to be careful not to overwater as this plant is susceptible to root rot. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry. Additionally, it is ideal to use a watering can or a drip irrigation system to direct the water right at the base of the plant to sustain adequate moisture levels without causing waterlogging.
Fertilization
Enantia kummeriae is a moderate feeder and requires nutrient-rich soil to thrive. A balanced fertilizer, with N-P-K (Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium) ratios of 14-14-14, is ideal for this plant. Fertilizer application should be done at least once every two months, starting from the early stages of growth. It is recommended to apply fertilizer during the wet season and avoid it during the dry season to prevent fertilizer burn.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep the Enantia kummeriae tree healthy, promote healthy growth, and control its size. Young plants should be pruned to create a balanced framework of branches. In contrast, mature trees should be pruned mainly to remove dead or diseased wood and control the size and shape of the tree. The best time to prune is during the dry season to minimize the risk of fungal infections. Use sterilized pruning tools to avoid spreading diseases to healthy parts of the plant.
Propagation Methods for Enantia kummeriae Engl. & Diels
Enantia kummeriae Engl. & Diels, commonly known as African cherry, is a species of plant belonging to the family Annonaceae. Here are some of the propagation methods for this plant:
Seed Propagation
One of the most common methods of propagation for Enantia kummeriae is through seed propagation. Seeds collected from the fruit can be used for propagation. The collected seeds should be dried and sowed in a well-draining medium. The seedlings can be transplanted once they are large enough to be handled.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation by cuttings is another alternative for Enantia kummeriae. Stem cuttings taken during the active growth period can be used for propagation. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining medium. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment until they develop roots, and then they can be transplanted.
Air-layering Propagation
Air-layering is another propagation technique that can be used for Enantia kummeriae. This method involves removing a part of the stem's bark, applying some rooting compound, and covering the exposed area with moist moss. Once roots start to develop, the stem can be cut and planted in a well-draining medium.
Grafting and Budding Propagation
Grafting and budding are two propagation methods that involve the joining of two different plant parts. These methods are typically used only by experienced growers. Budding involves adding a bud or a mature scion to the trunk of an established plant, while grafting involves the attachment of a branch to the trunk of an established plant. These methods can be used for Enantia kummeriae as well.
Propagation by any of these methods can be successful if done correctly. However, it is essential to consider the timing, temperature, and humidity when using these techniques to ensure the successful propagation of Enantia kummeriae.
Disease Management for Enantia kummeriae Engl. & Diels
Enantia kummeriae is susceptible to several diseases that can affect their growth and yield. The following are some common diseases that can infect the plant and ways to manage them:
Leaf spot disease
Leaf spot disease is caused by fungal pathogens that infect the leaves, causing yellowing and eventual dropping. To manage this disease:
- Ensure proper spacing between plants to promote air circulation and reduce humidity in the growing area.
- Apply a fungicide that contains copper or sulfur to infected areas.
- Remove and destroy infected leaves to prevent further spread of the disease.
Anthracnose disease
Anthracnose is another fungal disease caused by Colletotrichum sp. that affects the stem and fruit. To manage this disease:
- Carefully observe the plants and promptly remove and destroy infected parts.
- Apply fungicides containing copper or sulfur in the early stages of the disease.
- Ensure proper drainage and avoid excessive moisture in the environment.
Pest Management for Enantia kummeriae Engl. & Diels
Enantia kummeriae is susceptible to several pests that can reduce growth and yield. The following are some common pests that can infect the plant and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from leaves, causing yellow dots, stunted growth, and curled leaves. To manage spider mites:
- Regularly monitor and inspect plants for presence of spider mites.
- Introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs or lacewings.
- Apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil to infected areas.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are tiny, flying insects that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage whiteflies:
- Introduce beneficial insects such as ladybugs or parasitic wasps.
- Ensure proper sanitation and remove weeds and debris in the growing area.
- Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the infected areas.
With proper management and monitoring, Enantia kummeriae plants can thrive and produce a healthy yield.
