Description of Garcinia edeensis Engl.
Garcinia edeensis Engl. is a plant species belonging to the Clusiaceae family. It is native to Cameroon, specifically in Edea, a town located in the Littoral Region of the country. The plant is known by different vernacular names such as "Nzam" or "Nzem" in the local language, Ewondo.
General Appearance
The plant grows as a tree that can reach up to 20 meters in height. It has a dense, spherical-shaped crown and a straight trunk with a greyish-brown bark. Garcinia edeensis is characterized by its shiny, elliptical-shaped leaves that range between 5 to 14 cm in length and 2 to 6 cm in width. The leaves of the plant also have prominent secondary veins and are arranged alternately on the branches.
The flowers of Garcinia edeensis are small and pale yellow in color. They grow in clusters of 2 to 4, typically at the base of the leaves. The plant's fruit is a spherical-shaped, fleshy berry that turns from green to yellow as it ripens. The fruit can grow up to 4 cm in diameter, and it contains between 4 and 8 seeds.
Uses of Garcinia edeensis Engl.
Garcinia edeensis is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The bark, leaves, and roots of the plant are used to treat gastrointestinal problems such as diarrhea, constipation, and stomach ulcers. They are also used to manage pain, fever, and inflammation. In addition, the plant's fruit is used to treat jaundice, hypertension, and to promote weight loss.
The plant's fruit is also edible and has a sour taste. It is used as a condiment in traditional Cameroonian dishes such as "Mbongo tchobi" and "Ekwang." Additionally, the fruit's rind contains a compound called hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which has been found to have potential weight loss and appetite suppression properties. As such, Garcinia edeensis is also used by the nutraceutical industry to produce weight loss supplements.
In summary, Garcinia edeensis Engl. is a tree native to Cameroon that has been traditionally used in medicine and culinary practices. Its fruit and bark extracts have been studied for their potential health benefits, particularly in managing gastrointestinal problems, pain, and promoting weight loss.
Light Requirements
Garcinia edeensis typically grows in partially shaded conditions in its natural habitat. It can thrive in low to moderate levels of light. To replicate its natural conditions, it is best to grow it in a spot with partially filtered sunlight rather than direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Temperature Requirements
Garcinia edeensis is native to tropical regions of Africa and can tolerate high temperatures. It prefers temperatures between 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, but can still survive in temperatures as low as 10 degrees Celsius. Temperatures that drop below 10 degrees Celsius can be detrimental to its growth.
Soil Requirements
Garcinia edeensis requires well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. It prefers soil that is slightly acidic and has a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should also be kept consistently moist, but not waterlogged, as the plant does not tolerate drought conditions well. It is recommended to use a mixture of sand, compost, and perlite to help improve drainage and water retention in the soil.
Cultivation
Garcinia edeensis Engl. is a tropical tree that can grow up to 20 meters high. It is mostly found in humid forests and swampy areas. To cultivate this plant, it is essential to mimic its natural habitat conditions.
The plant prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It thrives in a sunny environment with partial shade. To propagate the plant, seeds or cuttings may be used. If seeds are used, they should be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing. Germination may take three to four weeks.
The plant requires regular watering of at least once a week, especially during the dry season. It is important to avoid waterlogging, as this may lead to root rot.
Watering Needs
Watering is crucial for the proper growth of Garcinia edeensis Engl. The plant requires a regular supply of water to thrive. It is recommended to water the plant at least once a week, especially during the dry season.
If the plant is grown in a container, it is important to ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging. Overwatering may lead to root rot, which can be fatal for the plant. In contrast, underwatering may cause the plant to wilt.
Fertilization
Garcinia edeensis Engl. requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and fruit development. The plant is a heavy feeder that requires a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10.
Fertilizers may be applied every two to three months during the growing season. However, it is important to avoid overfertilization, as this may lead to nutrient burn or toxicity.
Organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, may also be used to provide the plant with essential nutrients. Organic fertilizers are slower to release nutrients, so they may need to be reapplied more frequently.
Pruning
Pruning is an important aspect of caring for Garcinia edeensis Engl. The plant requires regular pruning to maintain a specific shape and to remove dead or diseased branches.
It is recommended to prune the plant in late winter or early spring, just before the start of the growing season. Pruning during this time will encourage new growth and promote fruit production.
The plant should be pruned using sharp, clean pruning shears. Care should be taken not to damage the main stem or any healthy branches. After pruning, the plant may require additional support to prevent damage from heavy fruiting.
Propagation of Garcinia edeensis Engl.
Garcinia edeensis Engl. can be propagated through various methods. Some of the commonly used propagation methods for this plant are:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Garcinia edeensis Engl. can be done from seeds. The seeds obtained from ripe fruits can be used for propagation. The seeds should be cleaned and soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing. The soil should be well-drained and fertile. The seeds should be sowed in the soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist. The seeds usually germinate within 2-3 weeks and the seedlings can be transplanted after 6-8 months.
Cuttings
The Garcinia edeensis Engl. plant can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from mature and healthy plants. The cuttings should have at least 2-3 nodes and should be around 8-10 cm long. The lower leaves should be removed and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in well-drained soil and kept in a humid environment. The cuttings should be watered regularly and the roots usually develop in about 2-3 months.
Air Layering
Another method of propagation of Garcinia edeensis Engl. is air layering. This method involves making a small cut on the stem, and then wrapping that area in moist sphagnum moss and a plastic bag. Once roots have formed and developed, the layered stem can be cut and then planted in a new pot.
Overall, these are a few commonly used methods for the propagation of Garcinia edeensis Engl. Depending on the situation, certain methods may be more suitable than others.
Disease and Pest Management for Garcinia edeensis Engl.
Garcinia edeensis Engl., commonly known as the African mango, is a fruit-bearing plant that is valued for its edible fruit and medicinal properties. To ensure the plant's optimal growth and productivity, proper care must be taken in managing diseases and pests that may affect it. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggested ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Anthracnose - This fungal disease causes dark, sunken lesions on the fruit, which can cause premature fruit drop. To manage anthracnose, prune and dispose of any infected plant parts, and apply fungicides to protect the fruit.
Bacterial wilt - This bacterial disease causes wilting and yellowing of the leaves, and stunts the plant's growth. Infected plants cannot be cured, so it is best to remove and destroy them to prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery mildew - This fungal disease leaves a powdery, white coating on the plant's leaves and fruit, which can reduce photosynthesis and fruit quality. To manage powdery mildew, prune infected branches, apply fungicide, and maintain good air circulation around the plant.
Common Pests
Fruit flies - These pests damage the fruit of the African mango by laying their eggs inside, which can lead to premature fruit drop and reduced fruit quality. To manage fruit flies, use sticky traps and apply insecticides.
Leaf-eating caterpillars - These pests can defoliate the plant, causing a reduction in growth and fruit production. To manage caterpillars, handpick them off the plant or use insecticides.
Spider mites - These pests suck the sap out of the plant, causing leaves to yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, apply insecticidal soap or a miticide to the foliage regularly.
Proper disease and pest management is essential to ensure the health and productivity of the Garcinia edeensis Engl. plant. Regular monitoring of the plant and timely treatment of any problems can go a long way in maintaining a healthy plant.
