Overview
Fagara macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl. is a plant species in the Rutaceae family. It is a large shrub or a small to medium-sized tree found chiefly in tropical and sub-tropical regions in Africa. The plant has several common names, including African Prickly-ash, West African pepper, Purple tree pepper, and Large leaved yellowwood.
Description
The Fagara macrophylla tree can grow up to a height of 20 meters, with a trunk diameter of about 60 centimeters. It has a broad, rounded crown, with a vase or rounded shape. The bark is rough, with fissures and deep grooves. Depending on the age and location of the tree, the bark may be brown, gray, or blackish. The leaves of the plant are shiny, oblong, or obovate, and measure about 4-22 cm long and 2-11 cm wide. They are arranged alternatively along the branches and are clustered at the ends of the branchlets. It produces small yellow flowers, which are clustered in terminal panicles measuring 4-12 cm long at the branch tips.
Uses
The Fagara macrophylla tree has several uses. Its bark, leaves, and fruits have been traditionally used in African medicine to treat various ailments such as coughs, fever, stomach discomfort, dysentery, and rheumatism. The tree's fruits and leaves contain alkaloids, coumarins, flavonoids, and tannins that have anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and analgesic properties. The bark of the tree is used as an insecticide, and on burning, it exudes a resinous smoke that is said to repel mosquitoes. The wood of Fagara macrophylla is used to make house posts, tool handles, and furniture.
Cultivation
The Fagara macrophylla tree thrives in deep, well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5 and prefers full sunlight. It can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings, and it is a fast-growing species that requires little maintenance. The tree is hardy and resistant to pests and diseases, making it suitable for backyard and agroforestry farming.
In conclusion, Fagara macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl. is a versatile plant that is essential to African society. Its multiple uses range from medicinal to agricultural. The large green leaves add a brilliant touch to any landscape, and the tree is easy to cultivate.Light Requirements
Fagara macrophylla requires bright and indirect sunlight to grow well. It needs at least six hours of sunlight daily, but direct sunlight may harm the plant. Therefore, it is better to place the plant in a spot that receives indirect sunlight for most of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in warm temperatures that range from 21°C to 32°C, making it suitable for tropical and subtropical conditions. Temperatures below 15°C should be avoided, as they can cause leaf damage and may even kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers soils that are slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be fertile, well-draining, and rich in organic matter. A potting mix made up of peat, perlite, and vermiculite in equal proportions area ideal for the plant growth. It is also important to ensure that the soil does not stay waterlogged, which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Fagara macrophylla, also known as African Cherry or Prunus Africana, is a tropical tree that requires warm temperatures to thrive. It grows in various soils, including sandy loam, clay, and rocky soils, as long as they are well-draining. African Cherry prefers full sun but can also tolerate light shades. Propagate the plant through seeds or by rooting stem cuttings in a rooting hormone. For planting, clear the planting area of rocks, debris, and weeds, and dig a hole about twice the size of the root ball. Make sure to plant only when the soil temperature is over 60°F.
Watering Needs
The African Cherry tree requires adequate water to grow correctly, but overwatering can cause root rot, which may kill the plant. Watering should be deep and at intervals of two to three days during the dry season and only when necessary during the rainy season. A watering guide is to add water when the top of the soil begins to dry out. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation rather than sprinklers to water so that it can go directly into the soil, reducing the chance of fungal infections which can occur when leaves and stems stay wet for long periods.
Fertilization
Fagara macrophylla thrives in fertile soil, and therefore, fertilizer application is necessary. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to feed the plant in the early spring, before the plant starts actively growing. Fertilize again before the rainy season and lastly during fall. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive leaf growth and low floral production.
Pruning
Pruning promotes a healthy African Cherry tree and encourages fruit and floral growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Remove damaged, diseased, or dead branches to prevent diseases from spreading to other parts of the tree. Also, prune to shape the plant to the desired size and form. After harvesting, prune back the plant by removing older or undesirable branches. Take care not to damage the bark when pruning the plant. Sterilize the pruning tools with alcohol before and after pruning to avoid the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Fagara macrophylla
Fagara macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl. commonly known as the African cherry, is a valuable medicinal plant belonging to the family Rutaceae. The plant is propagated both by sexual and asexual methods. The propagation of Fagara macrophylla is necessary to maintain genetic diversity as well as to increase its availability for utilization.
Sexual propagation
The sexual propagation of Fagara macrophylla involves the use of seeds. The seeds are collected from the ripe fruits and cleaned from the pulp. Then, the seeds are sown in well-draining soil mixed with organic manure. The seeds are sown at a depth of 1-2 cm and at a distance of 10-15 cm from each other. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. The seeds would take 2-3 weeks to germinate, and the seedlings should receive adequate sunlight.
Asexual propagation
The asexual propagation of Fagara macrophylla is done through stem cuttings, air-layering, and grafting. Of these methods, stem cuttings are the most common. The stem cuttings are collected from the mature plants in the early spring or autumn. The cuttings should be 15-20 cm long and should have 3-4 nodes. The lower leaves of the cuttings should be removed, and they should be treated with rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in well-draining soil mixed with sand and organic manure. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings would take 3-4 weeks to root.
Air-layering involves making a cut in the bark of the stem, wrapping a moist medium around it, and sealing it with plastic. After a few weeks, roots would grow from the cut and would be separated from the mother plant and transplanted. Grafting is another method used for propagating Fagara macrophylla, especially when it comes to breeding. A scion from a selected tree is inserted into a rootstock of another tree. This method would result in a plant with traits from both the scion and the rootstock.
Disease and Pest Management for Fagara macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl.
Fagara macrophylla (Oliv.) Engl. is a tree species that is native to Africa. Although it generally grows in the wild, it is also widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks. As with any plant, it can be susceptible to a range of pests and diseases. Here are some common issues that can affect Fagara macrophylla and tips on how to manage them.
Diseases
Canker Disease: This disease appears as sunken and discolored areas on the bark of the tree, which can eventually lead to the death of the branch or trunk. The disease is caused by a fungus and is most common in moist conditions. Prevention measures include proper pruning and sanitation practices to keep the tree healthy, well-drained soil and good air circulation. Infected branches should be removed and properly discarded.
Leaf Spot: This fungal disease appears as small brown spots on the leaves of the tree. The affected leaves may also fall off prematurely. To prevent leaf spot, practice proper sanitation and avoid overwatering. Fungicides can be used to treat severe infections, but it's important to follow the instructions carefully.
Pests
Spider Mites: These tiny spider-like pests can be identified by the fine webbing they produce on the plant. Spider mites feed on the plant's sap, causing it to weaken and turn yellow. They are most common in hot and dry conditions. To manage spider mites, keep the plant well-watered and increase the humidity in the surrounding environment. Insecticidal soaps or oils can be used to treat severe infestations.
Scale Insects: These pests appear as small, hard bumps on the branches of the tree. They feed on the plant's sap, causing it to weaken and turn yellow. Infested branches can be pruned, and insecticidal soaps or oils can be used to control remaining insects. The best prevention is to keep the tree healthy with proper watering and fertilization.
By taking steps to prevent and manage pests and diseases, you can help ensure the continued health and beauty of Fagara macrophylla in your garden or landscape.
