Overview:
Enneastemon mannii (Baill.) Keay is a plant that belongs to the family Annonaceae. It is commonly known as Nigerian Annona or Mann's Annona and is native to tropical West and Central Africa. The plant has a variety of uses and has become a household name in some local communities as a result of its medicinal value.
Appearance:
The plant is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 10-20 meters in height. The leaves are alternate, simple, and narrowly elliptic to oblong-lanceolate in shape, with a shiny, dark green upper surface and a paler lower surface. The flowers are bisexual, cream-colored, and have three petals and six sepals arranged in two whorls. The fruits are round, yellow-orange, and fleshy, with a diameter of 3-6cm. When ripe, the fruits have a pleasant, sweet, and aromatic flavor and are edible.
Uses:
The plant is used for various medicinal purposes. The leaves, bark, and roots are used to treat several ailments such as fever, inflammation, respiratory illnesses, and gastrointestinal disorders. The fruit pulp and seeds have also been used to manage diarrhea, constipation, and dysentery. In some communities, the fruits are believed to possess aphrodisiac properties and are used to improve male libido. The wood of the tree is used in carpentry and furniture making.
The nutritious and tasty fruits of Enneastemon mannii are also consumed by local people. The edible pulp can be eaten fresh or used to make juice, jam, or wine. The seeds are dried and ground into a powder, which is added to porridge or used as a condiment in cooking. The hard seeds can also be roasted and eaten as a snack.
Cultivation:
Enneastemon mannii is a hardy plant that does well in sandy and loamy soils. It prefers a well-drained site with ample sunlight. The plant is easily propagated from seeds, which germinate within a few weeks. The tree grows fast and bears fruit in 4-6 years. The fruits ripen in the wet season, mainly from September to November when they fall from the tree. The tree can produce a high yield of fruits, which makes it a potential crop for smallholder farmers.
Growth Conditions of Enneastemon mannii (Baill.) Keay
Enneastemon manni is a small herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Ranunculaceae and is endemic to West Africa. This plant typically prefers a moist habitat and grows in tropical rainforests and riverbanks.
Light Requirements
Enneastemon mannii grows well in moderate to low light conditions. The ideal location for planting this species is under the canopy of taller trees that provide partial shade. Direct exposure to strong sunlight can cause leaf scorching and damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Enneastemon mannii prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range between 5.0 and 6.5. The plant will not survive in waterlogged soils and requires a consistent source of moisture to thrive.
Water Requirements
Enneastemon mannii requires moderate to high levels of moisture to grow. This species is adapted to living in the humid environment of tropical rainforests. Regular watering is required to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Temperature Requirements
Enneastemon mannii thrives in warm and humid conditions. This species can tolerate temperatures between 20°C and 28°C but prefers temperatures around 25°C. The plant requires a minimum temperature of 18°C to survive and will not tolerate frost or cold temperatures.
Cultivation of Enneastemon Mannii
Enneastemon Mannii (Baill.) Keay is a shade-loving plant that needs well-draining soil. It will do well in partial or full shade. The plant is easy to grow, and it does not require any special care.
Watering Needs for Enneastemon Mannii
Enneastemon Mannii (Baill.) Keay requires moderate watering. It should be watered thoroughly when the soil becomes dry. The soil should not be allowed to become completely dry. The plant is sensitive to overwatering; therefore, it is crucial to avoid waterlogging the soil.
Fertilization of Enneastemon Mannii
The plant requires regular feeding during the growing season. The ideal fertilizer is an all-purpose, slow-release fertilizer applied every two to three months. The fertilizer should contain a balanced mix of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The use of a liquid fertilizer can also be beneficial for the plant.
Pruning Enneastemon Mannii
The plant does not require extensive pruning. However, pruning it lightly can improve its appearance. Any diseased or damaged leaves or stems should be removed immediately. Pruning can be done after flowering to maintain the plant's shape. Pinching back the plant's tips can promote bushiness, and deadheading the spent flowers can encourage new blooms.
Propagation of Enneastemon Mannii
Enneastemon Mannii can be propagated through two different methods, including:
Propagation through Seeds
The first method of propagation is through seeds. Collect the seeds from mature capsules and place them in a cool, dry place until the next planting season. Once the planting season arrives, sow the seeds in sandy soil that is well-drained. Keep the soil moist, but not wet, and ensure a temperature range of about 21°C. The seeds will germinate within 2-3 weeks after sowing. After germination, transfer the seedlings into individual pots with a mixture of peat moss and hummus. The seedlings can be transplanted into the garden after about 6 months, ensuring adequate spacing between them.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
The second method of propagation is through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from healthy and mature plants ensuring that each cutting has a minimum of two nodes. The optimal length for a cutting is around 10 cm. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and insert the cutting into a rooting medium. The rooting medium can be a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss in equal quantities. Ensure that the rooting medium is kept moist and the cuttings are placed in a shaded area with adequate light. After about 4-6 weeks, the cuttings should have formed strong roots and can be transferred into individual pots. After around 6 months, the cuttings can be transplanted into the garden.
Disease Management
Despite being a hardy plant, Enneastemon mannii is susceptible to certain diseases that can affect its growth and yield.
Root Rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, which is caused by soil-borne pathogens. Infected plants will show stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and wilting. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering and ensure the soil is well-drained. Remove infected plants to prevent the spread of the disease.
Fungal Diseases: Enneastemon mannii is also prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These diseases can be managed by ensuring the plant has adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to treat infected plants.
Pest Management
Enneastemon mannii can attract a variety of pests that can damage the plant and reduce its yield.
Aphids: These pests feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth, distorted leaves, and reduced yields. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to the garden to naturally control the aphid population.
Spider Mites: These pests are common in dry conditions and can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
Thrips: These pests cause silvering or discoloration on the leaves and can also transmit viruses. To manage thrips, use yellow sticky traps or apply neem oil.
Regular monitoring and early intervention are crucial in managing pest infestations and preventing potential damage to the plant.
