Overview of Mangifera odorata Griffith
Mangifera odorata Griffith is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the mango family and is widely grown in Southeast Asia, especially in Indonesia, the Philippines, and Malaysia. It is commonly known as the "Kasturi mango" or "horse mango."
Appearance of Mangifera odorata Griffith
The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a dark-green, glossy, and leathery foliage that measures around 20 to 30 centimeters long, with an elliptical shape, and its width can range from 5 to 15 centimeters. The tree also has clusters of small, white, or cream-colored flowers that produce fruits. The fruit is small, measuring around 5-8 centimeters long, with a distinctive smell and a thick yellow-green skin.
Uses of Mangifera odorata Griffith
The fruit of Mangifera odorata Griffith is mostly used for culinary purposes and is favored because of its potent and intense aroma, which is different from other mangoes. The fruit's fragrance is described as spicy and musky, making it perfect for flavoring certain dishes.
In Indonesia and Malaysia, the tree's fruit is often used in various types of cuisine such as soups, curries, and salads. The pulp of the fruit can also be used to make a sweet and savory sauce for dipping or glazing, and it can also be used to make jams and syrup. Additionally, the fruit's essential oils are used in making perfumes or as a fragrance component in cosmetics, soaps, and candles.
Besides its culinary and aromatic uses, the tree bark and leaves are also used for medicinal purposes by traditional healers and are said to have anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic properties. Moreover, the wood of the tree is durable and used to make furniture, house beams, and tool handles.
Light requirements
Mangifera odorata Griffith prefers full sun exposure to grow optimally. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may negatively impact its growth and fruit production. Therefore, it is recommended to plant it in an area with direct sunlight for at least six hours a day.
Temperature requirements
This plant thrives in warm tropical to subtropical climates, with temperatures typically ranging from 20°C to 35°C. It can withstand short periods of temperatures slightly below this range, but it may struggle to survive frost or extended cold spells.
Soil requirements
Mangifera odorata Griffith prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter and have a pH between 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should also be able to retain moisture, but not to the point of waterlogging. Ideally, sandy loam or loamy soils are best suited for this plant.
Cultivation Methods for Mangifera odorata Griffith
Mangifera odorata Griffith, popularly known as the Philippine mango, is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia. For successful cultivation, the plant requires a warm and humid climate with an average temperature of 25°C to 30°C. The plant can grow in a variety of soils, but a deep, well-draining loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 is ideal. The plant can be propagated by seeds or grafting methods.
Watering Needs for Mangifera odorata Griffith
The plant prefers to grow in moist soil, so it is necessary to water it regularly. During the growing season, water the plant weekly or when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is important to ensure proper drainage. During the dormant season, reduce watering and only water when the soil is dry several inches deep.
Fertilization for Mangifera odorata Griffith
Mangifera odorata Griffith requires regular fertilization for healthy growth and fruit production. Apply balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 8:8:8 or 10:10:10 every 3 to 4 months during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilization, which may lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.
Pruning for Mangifera odorata Griffith
Pruning is essential to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant and to promote good air circulation and light penetration. Prune the plant during the dormant season to minimize stress. Remove any dead or diseased wood and prune lateral branches to promote a strong framework. Regular pruning is also necessary to control the plant's size and shape.
Propagation of Mangifera odorata Griffith Plant
Mangifera odorata Griffith, commonly known as the Kuweni mango or fragrant mango, is a tropical fruit tree that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. The tree is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly cultivated in Indonesia, Philippines, and Malaysia. The plant can be propagated by several methods, which include:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method used in propagating Mangifera odorata. The seeds are obtained from mature fruits, dried, and then sowed in the nursery in a substrate mix of sand and peat in a 1:1 ratio. The seeds should be planted vertically with the pointed end facing downwards and covered with a layer of soil. Germination occurs within 2 to 3 weeks, and the seedlings should be transplanted to their permanent site after 6 to 12 months.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Mangifera odorata can also be propagated using stem cuttings. The cuttings should be obtained from the current year's growth, with a length of about 30 cm and a diameter of 1 to 1.5 cm. A rooting hormone can be applied to the base of the cutting to stimulate root growth. The cuttings should be planted in a substrate mix of sand and peat, in a ratio of 1:1 and kept moist. The cuttings will normally develop roots within 4 to 6 weeks, and the plantlets can be transplanted to their permanent site after 6 to 12 months.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used in Mangifera odorata. In this method, a branch is selected, and a ring of bark is removed from the selected branch. A rooting hormone can be applied to the exposed area, and a moist substrate mix of sand and peat, in a ratio of 1:1, is wrapped around the cut area. The substrate should be wrapped with a plastic sheet, tied at both ends, and kept moist. After several weeks, roots will develop from the cut area, and the new plantlet can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to its permanent site.
In conclusion, Mangifera odorata plant can be propagated through various methods such as; seed propagation, stem cutting propagation, or air layering, depending on the availability of resources, environmental conditions, and preferences. Each of these methods is effective in producing new plants, and the choice of the method depends on various factors such as the purpose of propagation, availability of resources, and expertise.
Disease and Pest Management for Mangifera odorata Griffith
Mangifera odorata Griffith, commonly known as the Kuweni mango, is a tropical tree that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. Like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can harm its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Mangifera odorata and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose Disease
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can affect Mangifera odorata. Symptoms include the appearance of black, sunken spots on the surface of leaves, flowers, and fruits. The best way to manage anthracnose infection is to keep the leaves and fruits dry as much as possible by avoiding overwatering and providing good air circulation around the tree. Damaged parts of the tree should be removed and disposed of properly. Fungicides may also be applied to control the spread of anthracnose disease.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that can affect Mangifera odorata. Symptoms include the appearance of a white, powdery substance on the surface of leaves, flowers, and fruits. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to maintain good air circulation around the tree. You can also remove the affected parts of the tree and dispose of them properly. Fungicides are also available to manage powdery mildew in severe cases.
Bacterial Black Spot
Bacterial black spot is a bacterial disease that can cause damage to the fruits of Mangifera odorata. Symptoms include the appearance of black spots on the surface of the fruit. To manage bacterial black spot, it is essential to practice good sanitation in the orchard. Remove any fallen fruits from the ground, as they can harbor bacteria. Avoid injuring the fruit during harvest, and use clean tools when pruning. Copper-based fungicides may also be used to manage bacterial black spot.
Mango Fruit Fly
The mango fruit fly is an insect pest that can cause severe damage to the fruits of Mangifera odorata. The female fruit fly lays eggs in the fruit, and the larvae feed on the fruit, causing it to rot. To manage fruit fly infestation, farmers can use cultural practices such as sanitation, bagging, and baiting. Baiting involves the use of a protein-based insecticide that attracts and kills the fruit fly. Organic insecticides are also available to manage fruit fly infestation in an orchard.
Hopper Infestation
Hopper infestation is another pest problem that can affect Mangifera odorata. Symptoms include wilting and discoloration of leaves. To manage hopper infestation, farmers can use cultural practices such as pruning and sanitation. Removing weeds around the orchard can also help reduce hopper infestation. If the infestation is severe, insecticides may be used to control hoppers.
