Origin
Grewia praecox K.Schum. subsp. latiovata C.Whitehouse is a subtropical plant that can be found in eastern and southern Africa. It grows in grasslands, woodlands, and bushy areas at an altitude of up to 2,400 meters.
Common Names
Grewia praecox K.Schum. subsp. latiovata is commonly known as the African Star Apple, False Medlar, or Crossberry. The plant has gained its common names due to the star-shaped appearance of its fruits and contrasting cross pattern at the base of its leaves.
Uses
Throughout Africa, the African Star Apple plays a significant role in traditional medicine, particularly due to its fruit's medicinal properties. Its leaves and bark are also used for medicinal purposes, treating respiratory and digestive illnesses. The fruit is also edible and is eaten either fresh or dried. The dried fruit is high in vitamin C and traditionally used in soups, stews, and sauces. The plant's wood is used for making tools, handles, and furniture, and the bark is used for making rope and baskets.
General Appearance
Grewia praecox K.Schum. subsp. latiovata is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 10 meters in height. The plant has a rounded crown covered with short, fine hairs. The leaves are oblong and alternate, with a glossy green surface and a pale green underside. The base of the leaf has a defined cross shape that distinguishes it from other plants. The plant's flowers are white or pink, and its fruit is small and star-shaped, with a yellowish-green skin when young and brownish when mature. Inside the fruit are tiny seeds surrounded by succulent, jelly-like flesh.
Light requirements:
Grewia praecox K.Schum. subsp. latiovata C.Whitehouse requires full sunlight to grow well. It is a sun-loving plant that thrives in bright light.
Temperature requirements:
This plant prefers warm temperatures and can't tolerate freezing conditions. The minimum temperature required for its growth is about 20°C. It can grow well in areas with a tropical or subtropical climate.
Soil requirements:
Grewia praecox K.Schum. subsp. latiovata C.Whitehouse needs well-drained soil to thrive. It is recommended to plant the seedlings in soils that are rich in organic matter and have a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5 for optimal growth.
Cultivation Methods
Grewia praecox K.Schum. subsp. latiovata C.Whitehouse, commonly known as the White Raisin, prefers to grow in well-drained soils with full sun exposure, but it can tolerate partial shade. The plant can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or layering. It is recommended to plant the seeds in a nursery or seedbed before transplanting them to the final location. The best time to plant the White Raisin is during the rainy season.
Watering Needs
Grewia praecox K.Schum. subsp. latiovata C.Whitehouse requires regular watering during the first year after transplanting to establish its roots. However, the plant can tolerate drought conditions once it is established. It is recommended to water the White Raisin deeply once or twice a week during the growing season. Make sure the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization
The White Raisin can benefit from fertilization in the spring or fall. Choose a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer around the drip line of the plant and water it well. Avoid using too much fertilizer, as it can cause excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruit production.
Pruning
Grewia praecox K.Schum. subsp. latiovata C.Whitehouse does not require regular pruning, but it can benefit from annual pruning to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. It is also recommended to prune the plant to shape it and control its size. Prune the White Raisin during the dormant season, before new growth appears. Use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Grewia praecox K.Schum. subsp. latiovata C.Whitehouse
Grewia praecox K.Schum. subsp. latiovata C.Whitehouse can be propagated by both seed and cuttings, although cuttings are the preferred method for propagation due to its faster rooting and growth rate.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds of Grewia praecox K.Schum. subsp. latiovata C.Whitehouse can be collected from ripe fruits, which are round, fleshy and dark purple when they are mature. The seeds have hard coats and need to be scarified before sowing to improve germination. Scarification can be done by soaking the seeds in hot water for a few minutes or nicking the seed coat with a sharp knife. Once scarified, seeds can be sown directly into the soil or in seed trays filled with well-draining soil mix. The ideal time to plant seeds is in spring, and they will germinate within 2-4 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
The best time to take cuttings of Grewia praecox K.Schum. subsp. latiovata C.Whitehouse is during early spring or autumn. Cuttings should be approximately 10-15cm long, with at least two nodes. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth, and then planted in soil that is well-draining and rich in organic matter. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment, with consistent moisture levels until they root, which should take approximately 6-8 weeks. Once they have rooted, they can be transplanted into larger containers or directly into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Grewia praecox subsp. latiovata
Grewia praecox K.Schum. subsp. latiovata C.Whitehouse is generally a disease-resistant plant that can resist most of the common diseases and pests. However, sometimes it can be affected by certain diseases and pests, and therefore proper disease and pest management practices are needed for its healthy growth.
Common Diseases
The plant may occasionally be affected by fungal diseases like leaf spots, anthracnose, and powdery mildew. Root rot can also be a problem, especially in poorly-drained soils with excessive moisture. The disease symptoms include leaf yellowing, wilting, and blackening of the roots.
To minimize the risk of fungal diseases, it is recommended to avoid excess watering and to keep the plant foliage dry. Removing the affected leaves and spraying the plant with an appropriate fungicide can also help in controlling the fungal diseases. If root rot is suspected, immediate corrective measures must be taken to avoid further damage. Transplanting the affected plant to a well-draining soil or promoting drainage around the plant can help in the recovery.
Common Pests
The most common pests that may affect Grewia praecox subsp. latiovata are the aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests feed on the plant sap, causing the leaves to deform and yellow.
The pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and insecticidal soap or neem oil. Alternatively, introducing natural predators like ladybugs can also help in keeping the pest populations under control. It is essential to inspect the plant regularly for any signs of infestation and to take necessary measures immediately to prevent the pests from spreading to the nearby plants.
Overall, proper care, such as providing adequate drainage, not overwatering and maintaining plant hygiene, plays an essential role in keeping the plant healthy and resilient.
