Origin
Exomicrum densiflorum (De Wild. & T.Durand) Tiegh. comes from the African continent and is native to Cameroon.
Common Names
Exomicrum densiflorum (De Wild. & T.Durand) Tiegh. is commonly referred to as Cameroon cherry, wild cherry, or African cherry.
Uses
The fruit of Exomicrum densiflorum (De Wild. & T.Durand) Tiegh. is edible and is used to make jams and jellies. The plant is also known for its medicinal properties, as the bark and leaves are used to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and skin diseases. The wood of the plant is durable and is used in carpentry and furniture making.
General Appearance
Exomicrum densiflorum (De Wild. & T.Durand) Tiegh. is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 10 meters in height. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate in shape with a leathery texture and are a glossy green color. The plant's flowers are small, white, and form dense clusters. The fruit is a small red to black drupe with a sweet and sour taste.
Light Requirements
Exomicrum densiflorum requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can cause the leaves to become scorched.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures with a minimum of 18°C and a maximum of 26°C. It cannot survive in temperatures below 15°C or above 30°C. Exomicrum densiflorum is sensitive to sudden temperature changes, so it's best to keep it away from drafty areas.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Exomicrum densiflorum is well-draining and rich in nutrients. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand works well to provide adequate drainage and aeration. The pH level of the soil should be slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 6.5. It's important to avoid waterlogged soil, as this can cause root rot and other issues.
Cultivation Methods for Exomicrum densiflorum
Exomicrum densiflorum grows best in well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. The plant needs to be planted in a location with partial shade to protect it from direct sunlight, which can cause leaf scorching. It can also be grown in containers as long as it is provided with a well-draining potting mix and receives partial shade.
Watering Needs for Exomicrum densiflorum
Exomicrum densiflorum requires consistent watering to keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. The plant should not be allowed to dry out between waterings, and frequent misting is beneficial to keep the humidity levels high. During winter, the watering should be reduced, and the plant should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization for Exomicrum densiflorum
Exomicrum densiflorum needs to be fertilized during the growing season, which is typically from spring to summer. A balanced liquid fertilizer should be used every two weeks to allow the plant to receive essential nutrients it needs to thrive. Dilute the fertilizer to 50% strength to avoid over-fertilization.
Pruning Exomicrum densiflorum
Exomicrum densiflorum should be pruned regularly to control its size and shape. Pruning should be done during the dormant period, which is normally between fall and the beginning of spring. When pruning, it is important to remove any dead or damaged branches and pinch off the tips of the branches to encourage bushier growth. If you want to shape the plant, prune the branches to the desired shape and size.
Propagation of Exomicrum densiflorum
Exomicrum densiflorum can be propagated through two primary methods - seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
Seeds of Exomicrum densiflorum can be collected from the parent plant after they have matured. The seeds can be sown in prepared seedbeds or in pots with a well-draining, nutrient-rich potting mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 1-2 cm and kept moist. They generally take 2-3 weeks to germinate. Once the seedlings have grown to a certain size and have become stronger, they can be transplanted to their final location.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of Exomicrum densiflorum can be carried out by stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free parent plants during the active growing season. The cuttings should be 5-10 cm long and should have a few leaves attached. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to promote root growth. Plant the cutting in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix and keep it moist until root growth has been established. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area until they have become established. Once established, they can be transplanted to a permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Exomicrum Densiflorum
Exomicrum densiflorum is a plant that is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. However, some common diseases and pests might affect the plant, and it is essential to know how to manage them to keep the plant healthy.
Common Diseases
Fungal diseases are the most common problems that affect Exomicrum densiflorum. They can cause leaves to yellow and fungal spots to develop on the plants' foliage. The plant's roots can also develop rot due to these diseases. Some common fungal diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes small, circular, tan to dark brown spots to develop on the plant's leaves. The spots grow and merge as the disease progresses, causing the leaves to dry and fall off. To manage anthracnose, spray the plant with a fungicide formulated to control it.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes the plant's leaves to develop spots that look water-soaked initially. The spots eventually dry out and turn grayish-white or tan. Preventing leaf spot requires keeping the plant dry by practicing proper watering techniques and maintaining good air circulation.
- Rust: Rust is another fungal disease that affects Exomicrum densiflorum. It appears as yellow or orange raised spots on the plant's leaves, and the infected foliage ultimately drops from the plant. To manage rust, prune infected leaves and apply a fungicide.
Common Pests
Although Exomicrum densiflorum is not commonly affected by pests, some insects may cause damage if not managed correctly. The most common pests that might infest the plant include:
- Scale Insects: These pests appear as small bumps on the stems and leaves of the plant. They secrete a sticky substance that can attract other insects and pests. To manage scale insects, gently scrape them off the plant and spray the plant with a horticultural oil or insecticide.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that produce a powdery, white substance. They mostly affect the stem and underside of leaves of the plant. To manage mealybugs, gently wipe them off the plant with a cloth and apply an insecticide.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that thrive in hot and dry conditions. Their presence is indicated by the presence of webs and yellow or brown spots on the plant's leaves. To manage spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant to deter them, and spray the foliage with a miticide.
By following these preventive measures and correctly managing diseases and pests that might affect Exomicrum densiflorum, you can keep the plant healthy and thriving.
