Overview
Keetia multiflora (Schumach. & Thonn.) Bridson, also known as the bush mango, is an evergreen tree that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. This plant is native to West and Central Africa and can be found in countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, and Cameroon.
Description
The bush mango is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 15 meters in height. The leaves are dark green and glossy, and are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. The plant produces small white flowers that form clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruits of the bush mango are green when young, but turn yellowish-orange when ripe. They are about the size of a small avocado and contain a fibrous yellow pulp with a sweet and sour taste.
Common Names
Keetia multiflora is commonly known as the bush mango, wild mango, African mango, and ogbono in Nigeria.
Uses
The fruits of the bush mango are edible and are commonly used in West and Central African cuisine. The pulp is used to make a sauce for soups, stews, and other dishes. The seeds of the fruit are also used to make a thickening agent for soups, known as ogbono soup in Nigeria. Additionally, the bark and leaves of the bush mango tree have medicinal properties and are used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and stomach problems.
hereLight Requirements
Keetia multiflora is a shade-loving plant and typically grows under the canopy of trees in its natural habitat. It requires dappled light or partial shade to thrive, and exposure to direct sunlight can damage its foliage and stunt its growth.
Temperature Requirements
Although Keetia multiflora is native to West Africa, it can be grown in a range of temperatures. The plant prefers warm and humid conditions and can tolerate temperatures between 18°C to 25°C. In cooler climates, it is best to grow the plant indoors or in a greenhouse to prevent damage during frost or extreme cold.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level (around 6.0 to 7.0). Soil should be rich in nutrients and organic matter. Keetia multiflora prefers moist soil, but not waterlogged conditions. Adding organic compost or aged manure to the soil before planting can help improve its structure and fertility.
Cultivation
The Keetia multiflora (Schumach. & Thonn.) Bridson, also known as the Bitter Leaf or Akuamma, is a fast-growing tree that thrives well in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers a well-drained and fertile soil with a pH of 6.5 to 7.0. The best time to plant is in early spring or summer when temperatures range from 20 to 30°C. It can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or grafting.
Watering Needs
Regular watering is essential for the healthy growth of Keetia multiflora. It requires moist soil, but drainage is crucial to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. The frequency of watering should be adjusted according to the climate and soil moisture. In areas with high rainfall or humidity, less watering may be needed compared to dry regions.
Fertilization
Keetia multiflora requires regular fertilization to maintain its optimal growth and fruiting. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 can be applied every 2-3 months during the growing season. Organic fertilizers like compost, cow manure, or chicken manure are also useful in providing essential nutrients and improving soil fertility. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can cause burning of roots or foliage.
Pruning
Pruning is vital for shaping Keetia multiflora into a desired form and maintaining its size. It should be done in late winter or early spring when the plant is still dormant. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and cut back any overgrown or crossing branches. This process will encourage the growth of new shoots and maintain the plant's vigor.
Propagation of Keetia multiflora
Keetia multiflora (Schumach. & Thonn.) Bridson is a relatively easy plant to propagate. The plant can be propagated by seed, stem cuttings, or air layering. Proper propagation methods ensure that the plant produces healthy, vigorous growth. Here are the propagation methods for Keetia multiflora:
Propagation by Seed
The easiest and most common method of propagating Keetia multiflora is by seed. The seeds can be collected from mature plants and sown in soil or a seedling mix. The seeds should be kept in a warm, humid area until they sprout. It usually takes around 2-3 weeks for the seeds to germinate. After germination, the seedlings can be transplanted into small pots or containers and grown under bright, filtered light.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Keetia multiflora can also be propagated by stem cuttings. The best time to take the cuttings is during the plant's active growth period. The cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy growth and should be around 10-15cm long. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, then dip the cutting in rooting hormone and insert it into a well-draining, damp rooting mix. Cover the cuttings with plastic or a cloche to retain moisture and keep them in bright, indirect light until they form roots. The cuttings usually root within 6-8 weeks.
Propagation by Air Layering
Another method used to propagate Keetia multiflora is air layering. This method involves making a small incision on the stem of the plant and then placing a damp moss or peat mixture around it. The moss or peat must be kept moist throughout the process. After a few months, the stem will have produced enough roots to be separated from the parent plant. Once the plant is well-established, it can be transplanted into a pot or container.
Disease management for Keetia multiflora
Keetia multiflora is relatively resistant to diseases. However, there are still some common diseases that can affect this plant, including:
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as white, powdery spots on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, use a fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions, and ensure the plant has good air circulation.
- Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes circular, brown spots on the leaves. Remove any affected leaves and ensure the plant has good air circulation to manage this disease. Consider using a fungicide for severe cases.
- Root rot: This is a disease caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. To manage root rot, ensure the soil is well-draining and avoid watering the plant too frequently. If the roots are severely affected, the plant may need to be replanted in fresh soil.
Pest management for Keetia multiflora
There are several pests that can affect Keetia multiflora. These include:
- Spider mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to spot. They cause webbing on the leaves and can stunt the plant's growth. To manage spider mites, remove any affected leaves and use a miticide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Mealybugs: These insects look like small, white cotton balls and can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. You can also use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Scale insects: These pests look like small, brown or red bumps on the leaves and stems. They can be difficult to manage once they have infested a plant. To manage scale insects, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. You can also use a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap according to the manufacturer's instructions.
