Origin
Irvingia gabonensis (also known as African mango, wild mango, dika nut, or bush mango) is a native tree to West and Central Africa, specifically in countries such as Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, and Nigeria.
Common Names
The plant has several common names including African mango, wild mango, dika nut, or bush mango. The name "dika nut" is most commonly used in Nigeria.
Uses
Irvingia gabonensis is widely used for its edible fruit, which is said to have numerous health benefits. The fruit is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a highly nutritious food source. The dried and ground seeds are also used to make a popular thickening agent in African cuisine called "dika bread". In addition, various parts of the plant have been used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments such as diarrhea, fever, and hernias. Recent studies have also shown that the plant may have potential as a weight-loss supplement and a natural remedy for type 2 diabetes.
General Appearance
The Irvingia gabonensis tree can grow up to 40 meters tall, with a trunk that can be over a meter in diameter. The leaves are dark green, glossy and can grow up to 30 cm long and 10 cm wide. The fruit is an ovoid drupe that can grow up to 10 cm in length and weigh up to a kilogram. The pulp of the fruit is bright orange, juicy, and has a sweet-tangy taste. The seed is hard and woody, and when dried, it is a brownish-black color.
Light Requirements
Irvingia gabonensis requires full sun exposure to grow optimally. Therefore, it is best to plant the tree in an open area with access to direct sunlight. Lack of adequate sunlight may result in stunted growth, weak stems, and low yields of fruits.
Temperature Requirements
The tree thrives in warm, humid climates with temperatures ranging between 20°C and 35°C. It cannot withstand frost or temperatures below 10°C, which can cause damage to the tree and inhibit its growth. The tree is highly resistant to drought and can tolerate prolonged dry seasons, but it may require irrigation during prolonged periods of insufficient rainfall.
Soil Requirements
The tree prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-drained. The optimum soil pH range for Irvingia gabonensis is between 5.5 and 6.5. Additionally, the soil should have good water retention capacity, since the tree requires consistent moisture throughout the growing season.
Cultivation Methods
Irvingia gabonensis can be cultivated in tropical regions with humid and warm climates. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It should be planted in an area where it can receive partial to full sunlight. The plant can be propagated through seeds or grafting.
Watering Needs
The tree requires regular watering, especially during the first two years of growth, to establish a healthy root system. Afterward, the plant is somewhat drought-tolerant. Overwatering can cause root rot and other diseases, so make sure not to water more than what is required by the plant.
Fertilization
The tree needs regular fertilization to maintain its growth and productivity. You can use organic fertilizers such as compost, animal manure, or bone meal. You can also use chemical fertilizers, but in limited quantities. Apply fertilizers during the growing season, and make sure not to over-fertilize as it can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the tree's shape, control its size, and increase productivity. Prune the tree during the dormant season to remove dead wood, suckers, and water sprouts. You can also prune to maintain an open canopy that allows sunlight to penetrate into the tree's interior.
Propagation of Irvingia gabonensis
Irvingia gabonensis, also known as African mango, is a tropical plant that is native to West and Central Africa. It is a valuable fruit tree that produces nutritious and delicious fruits. Propagation is an essential aspect of growing Irvingia gabonensis in nurseries or home gardens. There are several methods of propagating this plant, such as seed propagation, grafting, and stem cutting propagation.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the easiest and most common way to propagate Irvingia gabonensis. Mature fruits should be collected from healthy parent trees. The fleshy part of the fruit should be removed, and the seed should be cleaned and dried. After drying, the seed should be stored in a cool and dry place. Soaking the seed in water for 24 hours before sowing is recommended, as it can improve germination. The seed should be sown in a well-drained potting medium and kept in a warm and humid environment. Germination of the seed takes about 2-4 weeks.
Grafting propagation
Grafting is a technique used for propagating Irvingia gabonensis, which involves joining a scion (a small branch) of the desired plant to a rootstock of another related plant. Grafting has the benefit of allowing for precise genetic replication of a high-quality Irvingia gabonensis tree. The best time to graft Irvingia gabonensis is during the wet season when the plant is actively growing. The grafted plant should be grown in a cool, moist environment until it establishes well.
Stem cutting propagation
Stem cutting propagation is another viable method of growing Irvingia gabonensis. The cutting should be taken during the beginning of the rainy season when the plant is growing actively. The cuttings should be made from mature and disease-free plants. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a well-drained potting medium. The cuttings should be watered and kept in a warm and humid environment. The roots will develop in a few weeks, and the plant can be transplanted to a larger container or directly to the field.
Disease Management
The Irvingia gabonensis plant has some common diseases that include bacterial and fungal infections. To manage bacterial infections, it is essential to apply copper-based fungicides. Fungicides are important in preventing fungal infections from infecting the plant. Applying a mixture of water and baking soda can also help control fungal diseases. Additionally, regular pruning of the plant can help remove the infected parts and prevent the spread of diseases.
Pest Management
The plant is also susceptible to attack by insects and pests, including termites, aphids, and caterpillars. Aphids are known to suck the plant’s sap, causing yellowing and wilting of leaves. To prevent aphid infestation, apply insecticides such as neem oil or soap sprays regularly. Termites, on the other hand, feed on the plant's roots, causing stunted growth and eventual death of the plant. Use chemical pesticides containing fipronil, chlorantraniliprole, or imidacloprid to manage termite infestations. Lastly, caterpillars feed on the leaves and stems, causing severe defoliation. Use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad sprays to manage caterpillar infestations.
