Origin
Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius, commonly known as the African pear, originates from the forests of West and Central Africa. It is found in countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana, and Gabon.
Common Names
The African pear has several common names depending on the region. In Nigeria, it is called "Ukpa" by the Igbo people and "Ube" by the Yoruba people. In Ghana, it is known as "Kyenkyen" or "Semecarpus". In Cameroon, it is referred to as "Njansang" and "Moambe" in Gabon.
Uses
The African pear is widely used for culinary purposes. The seeds are either eaten fresh or roasted, and they can be used as a soup thickener. The pulp of the fruit is also edible, and it can be used to prepare jams and sauces. The leaves and bark of the tree have medicinal properties used for treating fever, coughs, and diarrhea. The oil extracted from the seeds is used in the cosmetic industry for making soaps, lotions, and moisturizers.
General Appearance
The African pear tree is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. It has a broad crown and a thick trunk with a greyish-brown bark. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical in shape, with a dark green color and a leathery texture. The flowers are small, inconspicuous, and greenish-white. The fruit is a drupe, green when unripe, and reddish-brown when ripe, with a hard, woody shell enclosing the edible pulp and seeds.
Growth Conditions for Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius
Light: This plant grows well in full sun to partial shade. Although it tolerates partial shade, it prefers bright sunlight for at least six hours daily. In areas with excessive sunlight, it is suitable to plant it under taller trees as it withstands some amount of shading.
Temperature: Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius can tolerate a wide range of temperatures from 0°C to 40°C. However, it prefers temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C. During winter, in areas where temperatures are below 0°C, the plant may shed its leaves, but new shoots will regenerate after winter.
Soil: The plant grows best in well-drained soils but can still grow in poorly drained soils. In areas with poorly drained soils, it is advisable to improve soil drainage by adding organic matter, which also increases soil fertility. Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius can tolerate acidic to slightly alkaline soils, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation Methods
Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius, commonly known as the Forest Corkwood, is a tropical plant that is native to the African continent. It grows well in warm and humid climates with well-draining soil. The best way to cultivate this plant is through direct sowing of seeds or stem cuttings.
The ideal planting time is during the rainy season, allowing the plant to establish well in the soil. Ensure that the planting holes are large enough to accommodate the root ball of the seedling or cutting.
Watering Needs
Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius requires adequate water to thrive, particularly during prolonged dry periods. The plant thrives well in moist soil, so ensure that you water it regularly. You can water the plant once a week or more frequently during the dry season.
It is essential not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases. It is best to water the plant early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not too hot.
Fertilization
Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius needs adequate fertilization for optimum growth. You can apply fertilizer to the plant two to three times a year. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal NPK ratios.
The best way to fertilize the plant is by broadcasting the fertilizer around the plant's base and gently working it into the topsoil.
Pruning
Pruning Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius can help control its size and shape and encourage bushier plant growth. You can prune the plant once a year or more, depending on your desired shape and size.
The best time to prune the plant is during the dry season when the plant is not actively growing. Use sterilized pruning shears or secateurs to avoid damaging the plant when pruning. It is best to remove dead or diseased branches and any crossing branches.
When pruning, ensure that you do not remove more than one-third of the plant's overall growth, as this can stunt its growth and negatively affect its overall health.
Propagation of Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius
Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius can be propagated through several methods including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius from seed is the most common method. Seeds should be collected from mature fruits and sowed immediately. Before sowing, remove the pulp and soak the seeds for 48 hours in water to increase germination rates. Seeds can be sown in germination trays or directly in the field. Seedlings should be transplanted to their final location after 6-12 months.
Cuttings Propagation
Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius can also be propagated through cuttings. Use a sharp, sterilized knife to take a 15-20 cm cutting from a healthy plant. Remove all the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, dip the cut end into rooting hormone and plant it in a rooting medium. Keep the cutting moist and in a warm, well-lit area. Once roots have developed, the new plant can be transplanted to its final location. This method can be used to propagate the plant throughout the year.
Air-layering Propagation
Air-layering can also be used to propagate Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius. Select a young but mature branch and remove a ring of bark, leaving the white cambium layer exposed. Cover the wound with moss and plastic wrap, keeping it moist. After roots have formed, cut the branch below the new roots and plant the new plant in a well drained soil mix.
Regardless of the propagation method, it is important to maintain a humid environment around the new plants until they have become established.
Disease Management
Like any other plant, Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius is susceptible to certain diseases. The common diseases that may affect this plant include:
- Leaf spot disease: This is a fungal disease that causes yellow or brownish spots on the leaves. In severe cases, the leaves may fall off. To manage this disease, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungus and causes the plant to wilt and eventually die. To prevent this disease, ensure proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering. If the disease occurs, remove and destroy infected plants and improve soil drainage.
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes a white powder-like substance on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To control this disease, affected plants should be sprayed with fungicides regularly, and proper ventilation should be maintained to avoid humidity.
Pest Management
Several pests can also attack Lecaniodiscus fraxinifolius Baker subsp. fraxinifolius. These pests include:
- Mealybugs: These pests suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To control this pest, remove and destroy infected plants and introduce natural predators like ladybugs.
- Aphids: These pests also suck sap, causing curling of the leaves and stunted growth. They can be controlled by introducing natural predators like ladybugs or using insecticides if the infestation is severe.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests suck sap, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves. Regularly spraying the plant with water and introducing natural predators like predatory mites can help control the infestation.
However, it is important to use pesticides and fungicides only when absolutely necessary as they may harm beneficial insects and pollinators and contribute to environmental pollution.
