Origin and Common Names
Manihot davisiae Croizat, also known as Davis' Cassava, is a species of perennial shrub in the Euphorbiaceae family. This plant is native to Colombia and can be found in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountain range.Appearance
Davis' Cassava is a shrub that can grow up to 2 meters in height. It has large, palmately-lobed leaves that are green in color and can measure up to 30 cm in diameter. The plant also produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are green in color and arranged in clusters.Uses
Manihot davisiae is not commonly grown or utilized for its root, unlike other species of cassava. However, it is recognized for its ornamental value due to its attractive foliage, making it a popular choice among gardeners. In addition, the leaves of Davis' Cassava are edible and used as a vegetable in traditional Colombian cuisine because they are rich in nutrition, including vitamins and minerals. The plant is also said to possess medicinal properties and is used for treating skin conditions and other ailments. In summary, Manihot davisiae Croizat is an attractive and nutrient-rich plant that is native to Colombia. It has ornamental value and its leaves are used as a vegetable in traditional cuisine, and for medicinal purposes.Growth Conditions of Manihot davisiae Croizat
Manihot davisiae Croizat, commonly known as Davis's cassava, is a perennial shrub that grows up to six meters tall. This plant species is native to the Northwestern Democratic Republic of the Congo and is mostly found in tropical forests and sometimes in open land. The plant's growth conditions include:
Light
The plant requires full sunlight for optimal growth. Therefore, it should be grown in areas that receive intense sunlight for at least six hours each day. Lack of enough sunlight can cause stunted growth and poor yield.
Temperature
Manihot davisiae Croizat requires temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius, which is typical of tropical climates. It cannot survive in temperatures below 20 degrees or above 40 degrees Celsius.
Soil Requirements
Manihot davisiae Croizat prefers loamy soils that are well-drained and deep. The soil should have a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant is very sensitive to waterlogging, so the soil's drainage should be good. The plant is also sensitive to saline soils, so it is vital to avoid planting in such areas to ensure optimal growth.
It is also essential to provide the plant with sufficient nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, which are vital for its growth. Proper soil preparation before planting, including clearing of bushes and weeds, is also essential in ensuring a conducive growth environment for Manihot davisiae Croizat.
Cultivation Methods for Manihot davisiae Croizat
Manihot davisiae Croizat is a tropical plant that requires a warm and humid environment to thrive. It is a small shrub that can grow up to 1-2 meters tall and prefers well-drained soil. This plant cannot tolerate frost, and temperatures below 50°F can damage or kill the plant.
The best time to plant Manihot davisiae Croizat is during the spring and summer months when the temperatures are high. The plant can be grown from seed or cuttings. If starting from seed, it is best to soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before planting to improve germination.
Watering Needs for Manihot davisiae Croizat
Manihot davisiae Croizat requires regular watering to maintain its growth and health. It is important to avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot and other diseases. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
The frequency of watering depends on the climate, humidity, and soil drainage. During hot and dry weather, the plant may require more frequent watering. It is recommended to water the plant deeply, allowing the water to penetrate the soil and reach the roots.
Fertilization for Manihot davisiae Croizat
Manihot davisiae Croizat responds well to regular fertilization. Fertilizers should be applied during the growing season, spring to fall. Organic fertilizers are recommended, such as compost, manure, or worm castings.
Commercial fertilizers with balanced NPK ratios can also be used. It is important not to over-fertilize, which can harm the plant. The amount and frequency of fertilizer application depend on the maturity of the plant and the quality of the soil.
Pruning for Manihot davisiae Croizat
Pruning is an essential part of Manihot davisiae Croizat care. It helps to shape the plant and promote bushiness. Pruning should be done during the growing season to encourage new growth.
For younger plants, pruning involves removing the tip of the main stem to promote branching. For older plants, pruning involves removing any dead or diseased branches or stems, as well as cutting back any overgrown branches to maintain the desired shape. Pruning should be done with clean, sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Manihot davisiae Croizat
Manihot davisiae Croizat, commonly known as Davis' cassava, is a popular perennial shrub whose propagation can be achieved in several ways, including:
Seed propagation
This method involves collecting ripe seeds from healthy plants then planting them in a well-prepared bed. The seeds should be sown at a depth of one to two inches deep. After sowing, water the bed regularly to keep the soil moist. The seedlings will germinate within two weeks and should be transplanted to individual pots when they are at least six inches tall.
Stem cuttings propagation
The stem cutting propagation method involves taking stem cuttings from healthy, mature plants. After cutting a six-inch stem, remove the leaves from one end and plant it in a pot filled with moist soil. Water the pot regularly to keep the soil moist, and the cutting will begin taking root within two to three weeks. Once the roots are established, transplant the cutting to a new pot or garden bed.
Air layering propagation
This method involves making a small cut around a healthy, mature stem, then wrapping a moist moss around the cut. After covering the moss with a plastic wrap, secure the plastic with a string or rubber band. Within three to four weeks, the stem will develop roots, and once the roots are well established, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to a pot or garden bed.
Division propagation
Division is another propagation method where you dig up an established plant and divide the roots into smaller portions, each with a healthy stem. Each new division can then be transplanted into a prepared bed or pot and will establish itself as a new plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Manihot davisiae Croizat
Manihot davisiae Croizat, commonly known as Davis' cassava, is generally hardy and resistant to many pests and diseases. Nevertheless, there are certain potential diseases and pests that can affect the plant, and it is good to be aware of them and their management strategies.
Common Diseases
One common disease affecting Manihot davisiae is the Cassava mosaic virus (CMV), which is a highly contagious and prevalent disease in cassava plants. The symptoms of CMV include yellowing and curling of leaves, stunted growth, and fewer yields. The virus is transmitted through infected planting material, whiteflies, and cassava green mites. To manage CMV, farmers ought to use virus-free planting materials, apply insecticides to control the whiteflies and mites, and practice good farm hygiene.
Bacterial blight is another disease that affects Manihot davisiae. It is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas axonopodis. Symptoms include watery ooze on the leaf surfaces, wilting, and leaf drop. The disease is mainly spread through damp conditions and contaminated planting materials. To control bacterial blight, farmers should uproot and burn infected plants and avoid creating a humid environment around the crops.
Common Pests
The cassava mealybug is the most destructive pest that can affect Manihot davisiae. It feeds on the plant's sap, causing curling of the leaves, stunted growth, and reduced yields. The pest is usually transferred from one cassava plant to another through the movement of planting materials or wind-blown individuals. To manage the mealybug, farmers can spray regular insecticides or release parasitic wasps that feed on the pests.
The caterpillar of the African armyworm is another pest that can damage Manihot davisiae crops. The larvae feed on the plant's leaves and stem, causing defoliation and stunted growth. The African armyworm can travel long distances on the wind, so management of this pest requires early detection and swift action through spraying or the use of biological controls.
Conclusion
Manihot davisiae has proven to be hardy and resistant to many pests and diseases, but farmers should still take measures to manage any potential issues. Practicing good farm hygiene, using virus-free planting material, spraying insecticides, and releasing biological pest control agents can help prevent or contain any infestations that may occur.
