Overview
Irvingia gabonensis var. excelsa is a plant that belongs to the Irvingiaceae family, which are known for their large fruits. This variety is native to Western and Central Africa, including Cameroon, Congo, and Gabon. It is notable for its large, edible fruit, which is valued for its nutritional benefits.Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the African mango or bush mango. In some regions, it is also referred to as ogbono, dika, or odika.Uses
The seeds of Irvingia gabonensis var. excelsa are rich in oil, protein, and dietary fiber, making them a valuable food source. The fruit is consumed both fresh and cooked, with the seeds typically being boiled or roasted before eating. The plant also has a long tradition of medicinal use, with various parts of the plant being used to treat ailments such as diarrhea, constipation, and fever. In recent years, the extract of Irvingia gabonensis var. excelsa has gained popularity as a weight loss supplement. Studies suggest that the extract can suppress appetite, reduce fat cell growth, and improve cholesterol levels. It is marketed under various names, including African Mango, Irvingia extract, and IGOB131.Appearance
Irvingia gabonensis var. excelsa is a large, evergreen tree that can grow up to 40 meters tall. The tree is characterized by its dark green, glossy leaves, which are clustered at the top of the tree. The fruit is an oblong drupe, which can measure up to 18 cm long and 10 cm wide. When ripe, the fruit turns from green to orange or yellow, and the pulp becomes soft and juicy. The seeds are large, brown, and covered in a white, fibrous coating.Growth Conditions for Irvingia Gabonensis var. Excelsa
Irvingia Gabonensis var. Excelsa, also known as wild mango or bush mango, is a fruit tree native to the humid rainforests of West and Central Africa. This species requires specific growth conditions to thrive successfully.
Light Requirements
The tree prefers full sunlight exposure but can also tolerate partial shade. A minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight is essential for the fruit tree's growth, flowering, and fruiting. Inadequate exposure to sunlight can result in the production of sparse foliage and poor fruiting.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Irvingia Gabonensis var. Excelsa growth is between 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). It is a tropical plant and cannot withstand temperatures below 10°C (50°F). Young plants may not survive extreme temperatures and may require some protection until they mature. Commonly found in West Africa, the tree grows at elevations from sea level up to 900m (3000ft).
Soil Requirements
The plant thrives in deep, well-drained, and fertile soils that have a slightly acidic pH between 5.5 to 6.5. The soils in the natural habitat of Irvingia Gabonensis var. Excelsa are generally sandy loams rich in organic matter. The tree is commonly found growing along riverbanks and in well-draining soils, and can thus withstand occasional waterlogging.
Additionally, the tree requires regular fertilization with organic and inorganic fertilizers to maintain optimum growth and production. Fertilization also helps maintain soil fertility and improves the fruit's quality and size.
Cultivation Methods
Irvingia gabonensis var. excelsa is a tropical rainforest tree that is commonly found in West and Central Africa. It thrives well in humid and warm environments and grows up to 40m tall. The plant is propagated by seed or grafting. When planting, select an area with well-drained soil, full sun exposure, and adequate shade from wind and direct sunlight, as the plant is susceptible to sunscald. Ensure the soil pH ranges from 6.0-7.5 by adding lime or sulfur depending on the pH level.
Watering Needs
Irvingia gabonensis var. excelsa requires moist soil throughout the year, with the soil remaining slightly damp but not waterlogged. Irrigate young plants every three days for the first three months and gradually reduce the frequency to every 14 days. For mature trees, irrigate once a week during the dry seasons and reduce watering frequency during heavy rainfall. Monitor the plant's leaves; if they start to droop, increase watering frequency.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the proper growth and development of Irvingia gabonensis var. excelsa. Apply nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) fertilizer, or organic matter, to the soil before planting. For mature trees, apply NPK fertilizer in two equal splits (June and October) during each growing season. The plant requires a balanced fertilizer that contains all the essential nutrients required for growth. However, the frequency and amounts of fertilization will vary depending on soil type, plant age, and rainfall patterns in the area.
Pruning
Irvingia gabonensis var. excelsa requires minimal pruning to maintain its health and productivity. The plant naturally grows with a single stem, with most branching occurring above 3m. Pruning should focus on removing diseased, broken, or dead branches. To maintain a uniform shape, remove unwanted branches and tips that sprout from the base. Also, prune the branches that grow towards the center of the canopy to facilitate sunlight penetration and improve fruiting. Prune after the fruiting season to avoid interfering with next year's fruiting cycle.
Propagation of Irvingia Gabonensis Var. Excelsa
Irvingia gabonensis var. excelsa, commonly known as African wild mango, is a tropical fruit tree native to West and Central Africa. Propagation of this plant involves several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common and easiest method of propagating Irvingia gabonensis var. excelsa. The seeds can be collected from ripe fruits, cleaned, and dried for a few days. Once dried, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix or directly into the ground. It is important to germinate the seeds in a warm and humid environment for optimal results.
Grafting
Grafting is another effective method of propagating Irvingia gabonensis var. excelsa, especially when trying to maintain a specific variety. The scion (a branch from a desired tree) is grafted onto a rootstock (a young tree with a strong root system) to create a new plant. This method allows the propagation of superior cultivars and also provides plants that are tolerant to environmental stresses.
Air Layering
Air layering is a propagation method that involves encouraging roots to grow on a stem while it is still attached to the mother plant. This method is ideal for plants that do not root easily from cuttings. In Irvingia gabonensis var. excelsa, air layering can be done by removing a strip of bark around a stem and applying a rooting hormone or a moist sphagnum moss. Roots will form on the stem within a few months, and the new plant can be separated from the mother plant.
Each of these propagation methods has its advantages and disadvantages. However, with proper care and maintenance, any of these methods can result in successful propagation of Irvingia gabonensis var. excelsa plants.
Disease Management
Irvingia gabonensis is susceptible to various diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant and hinder its growth. Some of the common diseases that affect the plant include:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes leaves to turn yellow and die prematurely, leading to defoliation. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant parts and avoid planting in areas that are prone to waterlogging.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal infection appears as white patches on the leaves, which can cause them to wilt and turn yellow. To manage powdery mildew, improve air circulation by pruning the plant, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides.
- Rust: This fungal disease appears as orange, yellow, or brown spots on the leaves, which can cause them to wither and die. To manage rust, remove and destroy infected plant parts and apply fungicides when necessary.
Pest Management
Irvingia gabonensis is also vulnerable to pests that can cause damage to the plant and reduce its productivity. Some of the common pests that affect the plant include:
- Termites: These pests can cause significant damage to the roots, stems, and leaves of the plant. To manage termites, apply insecticides and remove any termite colonies near the plant.
- Fruit flies: These pests can lay eggs on the fruits, leading to the development of maggots, which can cause the fruits to rot. To manage fruit flies, use pheromone traps or apply insecticides.
- Caterpillars: These pests can cause damage to the leaves, leading to defoliation and reduced productivity. To manage caterpillars, remove and destroy any infected plant parts and use insecticides when necessary.
