Overview of Maerua exasperata Chiov.
Maerua exasperata Chiov. is a flowering shrub that belongs to the Capparaceae family. It is a medicinal and edible plant that is widely distributed in tropical regions of Africa, particularly in Ghana, Nigeria, and Congo.
Common Names
Maerua exasperata is known by various common names across Africa, including:
- Ohe in Igbo
- Ochu in Efik
- Gargare in Hausa
- Akata in Yoruba
- Ntchire in Ghana
Appearance
Maerua exasperata is a dense, spiny shrub that can grow up to three meters tall. It has a woody stem and small leaves that are arranged spirally. The plant produces clusters of fragrant white flowers that mature into round, green fruits when pollinated. Its roots are tuberous and can grow up to a meter deep in the soil to tap into water sources.
Uses of Maerua exasperata
Maerua exasperata is a popular plant in traditional medicine across Africa. Its various parts have been used to relieve various ailments such as asthma, meningitis, fever, and coughs. The plant is a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and its tender leaves are eaten in salads or as a vegetable. The seeds of the plant are also roasted and consumed as a coffee substitute.
Furthermore, the stem of the plant is used for fencing and making livestock kraals, while the bark is used for dyeing clothes and ropes.
Light Requirements
Maerua exasperata Chiov. commonly known as African desert apple has moderate light requirements. The plant grows well in full sun as well as partial shade conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Maerua exasperata Chiov. thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 20-30°C. However, it can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C. Frost should be avoided as it can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained soils. It thrives in sandy and loamy soil types rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic between 6.0- 7.5.
Cultivation methods
Maerua exasperata Chiov. is a hardy, drought-resistant shrub that can grow to a height of 2-5 meters. It prefers sandy soils with good drainage and can tolerate a wide range of pH levels. The plant requires full sunlight exposure to thrive, and it is advisable to plant it in an open space that receives plenty of sunlight.
Propagation of the plant can be done using seeds, cuttings or suckers. The best time to plant is during the rainy season, and seeds should be sown in well-prepared soil at a depth of 1-2 cm. Cuttings or suckers should be planted in a hole measuring approximately 30 cm deep and filled with topsoil mixed with well-rotted manure compost.
Watering Needs
Maerua exasperata Chiov. can survive in areas with low rainfall, but it should receive regular watering during long dry spells. Irrigation of the plant should be done during the early morning or late evening to minimize water loss through evaporation. It is best to avoid overwatering the plant as this can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
The shrub can benefit from regular fertilizing. A balanced fertilizer high in nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous should be applied every three months during the growing season. The amount of fertilizer required depends on the soil nutrient content and the size of the plant. A soil test can help determine the appropriate amount of fertilizer to apply.
Pruning
Maerua exasperata Chiov. requires minimal pruning, but it is advisable to remove dead or diseased branches to promote new growth. Pruning should be done during the early spring, just before the rainy season starts. Young plants should be pruned to encourage bushy growth, and mature plants should be pruned to open up the center to enhance air circulation and light penetration.
Propagation of Maerua exasperata Chiov.
Maerua exasperata Chiov. can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
Seeds of Maerua exasperata Chiov. can be collected from matured fruits. These seeds should be sown in a prepared bed of loosened soil and mulched with organic matter.
The bed should be kept moist and well-drained. Germination occurs within 2 weeks to 2 months.
The seedlings can be transplanted to a nursery bed and grown to a size suitable for transplanting to the field or garden.
Asexual Propagation
Maerua exasperata Chiov. can be propagated through stem cuttings taken from mature plants. Cuttings of about 20 cm long can be prepared and dipped in rooting hormones before planting in a potting mix.
These pots can be placed in a mist chamber or covered with transparent polythene bags to create a humid environment for rapid rooting.
Rooting occurs within 4 weeks and the rooted plants can be transplanted to the field or garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Maerua exasperata Chiov.
Maerua exasperata Chiov. is an important medicinal plant with several health benefits. To ensure healthy growth and increased yield, it is essential to manage common diseases and pests that affect this plant.
Common Diseases
Maerua exasperata Chiov. is prone to a few diseases that can affect its growth and yield. They include:
- Root Rot: This is caused by Phytophthora sp. and Fusarium spp. The symptoms include root discoloration and wilting of the plant. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Also, use disease-free seedlings and maintain good plant hygiene.
- Leaf Spots: This is caused by Septoria sp. and Cercospora spp. The symptoms include the appearance of yellow or brown spots on the leaves, which may lead to defoliation and reduced plant growth. To manage this disease, use fungicides and maintain good plant hygiene.
- Powdery Mildew: This is caused by Erysiphe spp. The symptoms include the appearance of white, powdery growth on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage this disease, use fungicides, maintain good plant hygiene, and avoid overcrowding the plants.
Common Pests
Maerua exasperata Chiov. is also prone to a few pests that can affect its growth and yield. They include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and curling. To manage these pests, use insecticides, introduce natural predators, such as ladybugs, or, if possible, use companion plants, such as marigold.
- Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that can cause deformed leaves and flowers. They also transmit viral diseases. To manage these pests, use insecticides, prune the affected areas, and maintain good plant hygiene.
- Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, flying insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing yellowing, drying, and defoliation. To manage these pests, use insecticides, introduce natural predators, such as parasitic wasps, or use insecticidal soap.
While it is essential to manage pests and diseases on Maerua exasperata Chiov., it is also crucial to prevent infestations by maintaining good plant hygiene, using disease-free seeds, and preventing overcrowding. By following these simple practices, you can protect your plants from common pests and diseases.
