Overview
Fagara macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl. var. preussii Engl. ex De Wild. is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Rutaceae family. The plant is commonly known by several names, including African sumac, Agiri, Cameroon pepper, or pepper tree. The plant is mainly found in West and Central Africa and is known for its medicinal and culinary significance.
Appearance
The Fagara macrophylla var. preussii is a tree species that can reach up to 20 m in height. The plant has a straight trunk, simple alternate leaves, and dense foliage that spreads widely. The leaves are dark green and glossy, elliptical or lanceolate, and about 10-30cm in length. The flowers are small, white, or yellow and form clusters at the tips of the branches. The fruit is round, orange, or red, about 1-2cm in diameter, and contains a few seeds.
Origin and Distribution
Fagara macrophylla var. preussii is native to West and Central Africa, especially in Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, and Nigeria. The plant is commonly found in tropical rainforests and savannahs, where it thrives well in well-drained soils and humid conditions.
Uses
Fagara macrophylla var. preussii has a long history of use in traditional medicine for treating various ailments. The plant extracts are believed to possess anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and anti-cancer activities. The bark, root, seed, and fruit of the plant are used in treating common illnesses such as diarrhea, toothache, fever, and skin infections. Additionally, the plant is widely used as a spice in traditional African cuisine, where the dried and ground fruit is added to soups, stews, and sauces to enhance their flavor.
In conclusion, Fagara macrophylla var. preussii is a significant plant species in West and Central Africa that contributes to both medicinal and culinary purposes. The plant's widespread distribution and abundance make it an important resource for local communities and a potential target for further research and management.
Light Requirements
Fagara macrophylla var. preussii requires bright light to grow, but it should not be exposed to direct sunlight. It can tolerate partial shade, but too much shade can negatively affect its growth and flowering. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in a location that receives bright, filtered sunlight for several hours each day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to tropical regions of Africa, so it thrives in warm temperatures of around 75-85°F (24-29°C). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it should not be exposed to temperatures below 55°F (13°C). It is also important to avoid placing the plant near cold drafts or air conditioning vents, which can cause temperature fluctuations and damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Fagara macrophylla var. preussii prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. The plant can tolerate different types of soil, but it should not be planted in heavy clay or waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot. It is recommended to add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and promote healthy growth.
Cultivation of Fagara Macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl. var. Preussii Engl. ex De Wild.
Fagara Macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl. var. Preussii Engl. ex De Wild. is an evergreen shrub that requires moderate care to thrive. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and can be grown in a variety of soils. Here are some cultivation practices to help you grow healthy plants:
Watering Needs
Watering Fagara Macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl. var. Preussii Engl. ex De Wild. depends on the weather conditions. In hot weather, it requires frequent watering until the soil is moist. When the weather is cold, you should water the plant less frequently.
Fertilization
Fagara Macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl. var. Preussii Engl. ex De Wild. requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth. You can use organic or chemical fertilizers for this purpose. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks during active growth.
Pruning
Prune Fagara Macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl. var. Preussii Engl. ex De Wild. regularly to maintain its compact form. You should prune damaged, diseased, or dead branches throughout the year. Prune in early spring to shape the plant and encourage new growth.
Propagation of Fagara macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl. var. preussii Engl. ex De Wild.
Fagara macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl. var. preussii Engl. ex De Wild. can be propagated in different ways such as seeds, cuttings, and layering. The ideal time for propagation is during the spring.
1. Seed Propagation
Seeds can be extracted from the fruits of the plant. To extract the seeds, the fruit has to be removed and soaked in water for a few days until the pulp is soft enough to be removed. After that, the seeds can be cleaned, dried, and stored until planting.
For planting, the seeds have to be sown on well-drained soil mixed with sand. The soil must be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Germination should occur within 1 to 3 months.
2. Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings are also a common method of propagation for Fagara macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl. var. preussii Engl. ex De Wild. To propagate through cuttings, take stem cuttings of 10-15 cm length in the early spring. Remove any leaves from the bottom half of the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. The cutting should then be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist in a warm, bright location. Rooting should take place within 4 to 6 weeks.
3. Layering Propagation
Another way of propagating the plant is through layering. This method is done by bending one of the branches of the plant towards the ground and covering it with soil. The tip of the branch should be left exposed. When roots emerge from the covered stem, usually within 6 to 8 weeks, the newly rooted plant can be separated from the mother plant and replanted.
Disease Management
Fagara macrophylla var. preussii is susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases that can affect its growth and yield. Here are some common diseases that might affect the plant, along with ways to manage them:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes small, circular spots on the leaves, stems, and fruits of the plant. To manage anthracnose, remove and dispose of infected plant parts, avoid overhead irrigation, and apply a fungicide.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown, circular spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation. To manage leaf spot, remove and dispose of infected plant parts, avoid overhead irrigation, and apply a fungicide.
- Bacterial wilt: This bacterial disease causes wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. To manage bacterial wilt, remove and dispose of infected plant parts, avoid overhead irrigation, and use disease-free planting materials.
Pest Management
Fagara macrophylla var. preussii is also susceptible to various pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Here are some common pests that might affect the plant, along with ways to manage them:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs, and remove weeds around the plant.
- Caterpillars: These larvae of moths and butterflies feed on the leaves of the plant, causing defoliation. To manage caterpillars, handpick them and dispose of them, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), and remove weeds around the plant.
- Mealybugs: These scale insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs, and remove weeds around the plant.
