Overview: Leocus caillei (A.Chev. ex Hutch. & Dalziel) J.K.Morton
Leocus caillei, commonly known as African cherry, is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree belonging to the Fabaceae family. This plant is native to tropical Africa, including countries such as Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Cameroon. It is also found in neighboring countries like Gabon, Congo, and Angola.
Common names
Aside from African cherry, this plant is also known by other local names such as Essingang (Nigeria), Ngbagba (Cameroon), and Omo (Sierra Leone). It is also called African locust bean by some, which can be confusing as there is another plant, Parkia biglobosa, also known as African locust bean or dawa-dawa, that is often mistaken for Leocus caillei.
Uses
Leocus caillei has a number of uses ranging from medicinal to culinary. In traditional African medicine, the bark, leaves, and roots of the plant are used to treat a variety of ailments such as stomachache, fever, and diarrhea. The seeds are also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
In the culinary world, the African cherry fruit is consumed fresh or used to make jams, jellies, and drinks. The seeds are often fermented to produce a condiment known as iru in Nigeria or dawadawa in Ghana. The paste is used to flavor stews, soups, and other West African dishes.
General appearance
The African cherry tree grows up to 20 meters in height and has a crown of dense foliage. Its bark is smooth and gray while its leaves are compound and alternate, with 5 to 7 leaflets. The flowers are small and white or cream-colored, and the fruit is a pod that is about 10 cm long and 4 cm wide, containing several brown or black seeds.
Overall, Leocus caillei is a versatile and valuable plant that has been an important part of African culture and cuisine for centuries.
Light Requirements
The plant Leocus caillei thrives in bright, indirect sunlight. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of sunlight daily. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it's best to place it near a window that receives filtered sunlight or in a spot that is shaded for the majority of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the optimal growth of Leocus caillei is between 18°C and 27°C. The plant can withstand a slight drop in temperature at night, but it's important to keep it away from any cold drafts or air conditioning units. If the temperature falls below 10°C, the plant may suffer serious damage and may not recover.
Soil Requirements
Leocus caillei requires a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers a pH level of 6-7. It’s recommended to use a potting mix with peat, perlite, and sand. The plant is vulnerable to root rot, so it's important to avoid over-watering and make sure the soil is free-draining.
Cultivation Methods of Leocus caillei
Leocus caillei is a tropical plant native to West Africa. It thrives in humid conditions with temperatures ranging between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. This plant prefers partial shade to full sunlight and well-draining soil rich in organic matter. It can grow up to 10 feet (3 meters) tall if grown in ideal conditions.
To cultivate Leocus caillei, start by selecting a suitable growing location with partial shade and well-draining soil. The soil should have good water retention capacity to keep the plant hydrated. Plant the Leocus caillei seedlings 4 inches (10 cm) deep in the soil and water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Provide regular care, including watering, fertilizing, and pruning, to help the plant grow well and thrive. Avoid planting the Leocus caillei in areas with extreme temperatures, frost, or strong winds, as it will damage or kill the plant.
Watering Needs of Leocus caillei
Leocus caillei requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The soil should be damp to the touch and not dry or saturated with water. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can damage or kill the plant.
Water the plant every 3-4 days during the growing season and reduce watering frequency during the dormant season. Provide additional water during prolonged dry spells or hot weather to keep the plant hydrated.
Fertilization of Leocus caillei
Leocus caillei requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and development. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus to ensure optimal growth and development. Apply the fertilizer every two months during the growing season.
Avoid applying fertilizer during the dormant season as the plant is not actively growing. Over-fertilization can damage the roots and lead to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, or leaf drop.
Pruning of Leocus caillei
Leocus caillei requires regular pruning to keep it tidy and healthy. Remove any dead or diseased leaves, stems, or branches as soon as you notice them. This will prevent the spread of disease to other parts of the plant or nearby plants.
Prune the plant once a year during the dormant season to remove any unsightly growth, shape the plant, and promote new growth. Use sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant and remove no more than one-third of the plant's total growth.
With proper cultivation and care, the Leocus caillei plant will produce attractive blooms and foliage year-round, enhancing the beauty of your garden or indoor space.
Propagation of Leocus caillei
Leocus caillei is propagated through seed and stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seed
The seeds are collected from mature pods that have turned brown and dry. The seeds are soaked in hot water for 24 hours, followed by treatment with a fungicide, before sowing in a well-draining potting mix. Germination typically takes around 3 weeks. The seedlings are transplanted to individual pots when they are large enough to handle.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are taken from new growth during the rainy season. The cuttings should be about 10 cm long, with at least two nodes. The leaves on the lower half of the stem are removed, and the stem is dipped in rooting hormone powder before being planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings are kept in a shaded area and watered regularly. Rooting should take place within 3 weeks, after which the cuttings can be transplanted to individual pots.
Disease Management
Leocus caillei is a relatively hardy plant but can be susceptible to certain diseases. One common disease is powdery mildew, which appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to eliminate any infected plant material and ensure proper air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be used to prevent and manage powdery mildew.
Another disease that can affect Leocus caillei is root rot. This disease is caused by overwatering and can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is not sitting in water and the soil is well-draining. If root rot has already set in, it may be necessary to prune affected roots and repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Pest Management
Leocus caillei is also susceptible to certain pests, including spider mites and mealybugs. Spider mites are tiny, red pests that can cause leaf damage and webbing. Mealybugs, on the other hand, can appear as white, fluffy insects that feed on plant sap and can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves.
To manage spider mites and mealybugs, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be used to control these pests. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and avoid using excessive amounts of pesticide, as this can harm the plant.
In addition to these pests, Leocus caillei may also attract ants, which can protect and encourage the growth of other pests. To manage ants, it is important to eliminate their food sources and use ant baits or repellents.
Overall, proper care and regular monitoring are key to preventing and managing disease and pest issues in Leocus caillei. By following these guidelines, this plant can be enjoyed for many years to come.
