Maesobotrya dusenii (Pax) Hutch. - Overview
Maesobotrya dusenii (Pax) Hutch. is a shrub belonging to the family Myrtaceae. The plant is native to Southern Africa, particularly Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and South Africa, where it is found in dry savannas and woodlands.
Common Names
Maesobotrya dusenii is commonly known as African cherry, wild cherry, bushveld cherry, and umshishane in local African languages.
Appearance
Maesobotrya dusenii is a small to medium-sized deciduous shrub that grows up to 2-3 meters tall. The plant has a dense, rounded crown with small, shiny green leaves that are simple and elliptical in shape. The leaves are arranged alternately along the stems and have a smooth texture with a slightly serrated margin. The plant produces small, white to pinkish flowers that are fragrant and attract pollinators. The flowers develop into round, fleshy fruits that resemble cherries and turn from green to bright red as they ripen.
Uses
Maesobotrya dusenii has a variety of uses in traditional medicine, such as treating diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach problems. The bark and leaves of the plant are used to make a decoction that is used for oral administration. The fruits are edible and can be eaten raw or used to make jams and jellies. The plant is also used for landscaping and as an ornamental shrub in gardens due to its attractive flowers and fruits.
Light Requirements
Maesobotrya dusenii is a shade-loving plant that thrives in low to medium light conditions. Direct sunlight can result in leaf burn and stunted growth. It is best to place the plant in bright, indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 18°C to 25°C. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it must be protected from frost and extreme temperature fluctuations. Avoid placing the plant near cold drafts or air conditioning vents.
Soil Requirements
Maesobotrya dusenii grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH between 6.0 to 7.5 and be kept moist but not wet. It is important to avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can lead to wilting and ultimately, death of the plant.
Cultivation of Maesobotrya Dusenii
Maesobotrya dusenii is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures throughout the year. It can only be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9 and above. In colder regions, it must be grown indoors in a greenhouse or an area with plenty of sunlight. When planting, ensure you provide enough space for the plant to grow to its full size.
Watering Needs for Maesobotrya Dusenii
Maesobotrya dusenii needs frequent watering, especially during hot and dry weather conditions. However, the plant is highly sensitive to overwatering, so ensure the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging. It's best to water the plant in the morning to allow enough time for the foliage to dry before nightfall.
Fertilization of Maesobotrya Dusenii
Maesobotrya dusenii requires regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer. You can use an organic fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant. Too much fertilizer can cause the leaves to yellow, so ensure you follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning Maesobotrya Dusenii
Pruning Maesobotrya dusenii is necessary to maintain its size and shape. You can prune the plant after the blooming season or during the winter dormancy period. Remove any dead or diseased foliage, and cut back any overgrown branches to maintain a desirable shape. You can also pinch back the stem tips to encourage bushy growth.
Propagation of Maesobotrya dusenii (Pax) Hutch.
Maesobotrya dusenii (Pax) Hutch. can be propagated through various methods. The plant produces seeds, and it can also be propagated through stem cuttings and division.
Seed propagation
Propagation through seeds is the easiest and most common method of propagating Maesobotrya dusenii. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix in a warm, bright location. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil, misted with water, and kept moist until they germinate. Germination can take several weeks to a few months.
Stem cutting propagation
Stem cutting propagation is another method to propagate Maesobotrya dusenii. The stem cuttings should be taken from the tip of a healthy stem during the growing season. The cuttings should be around 10 cm long with a few leaves, and the lower leaves should be removed. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining potting mix, and the soil should be kept moist until the cuttings root. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Division propagation
The plant can also be propagated through division. The plant should be lifted from the soil, and the roots and stems should be carefully separated into smaller sections. Each section should have a few leaves and a healthy root system. The sections should be replanted in individual pots with fresh potting soil, and the soil should be kept moist until the plants are established.
Disease Management for Maesobotrya dusenii
Maesobotrya dusenii (Pax) Hutch., commonly known as the African violet tree, is prone to certain diseases that can hamper its growth and development. The following are some common diseases of Maesobotrya dusenii and ways to manage them:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spots are caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses that infect the plant leaves. Symptoms of leaf spot are circular spots on the leaves, which may be light or dark in color. To manage this disease, avoid overhead watering, keep the foliage dry, and remove infected leaves immediately. You can also apply fungicides or bactericides to control the spread of leaf spot.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots, causing them to rot and die. Symptoms of root rot include wilting, yellowed leaves, and stunted growth. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and make sure the soil has proper drainage. If the plant is infected, remove it from the soil and discard it. You can also apply fungicides to the soil to prevent further spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the plant's leaves and stems, causing a powdery white coating. Symptoms of powdery mildew include yellowed leaves and stunted growth. To manage this disease, avoid overhead watering, keep the foliage dry, and improve air circulation. You can also apply fungicides to control the spread of powdery mildew.
Pest Management for Maesobotrya dusenii
Maesobotrya dusenii is also susceptible to several pests that can cause damage to the plant. The following are some common pests of Maesobotrya dusenii and ways to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's leaves, causing them to turn yellow and dry out. To manage spider mites, rinse the plant with water to remove them, or apply insecticidal soap or oil to the affected areas. You can also introduce predatory mites or insects to control the spider mite population.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the plant's stems and leaves, causing them to turn yellow and wilt. To manage scale insects, prune off heavily infested leaves or use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove the insects. You can also apply horticultural oil to smother the insects and their eggs.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are white, cottony insects that feed on the plant's leaves and stems, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, remove them with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, or rinse the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap. You can also introduce natural enemies, such as ladybugs or lacewings, to control the mealybug population.
