Overview
Manihot dichotoma Ule, commonly known as Cassava Capixaba, is a plant species that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. This perennial plant is native to Brazil and can be found growing in the Amazon basin region, specifically in the states of Espirito Santo and Bahia.
General Appearance
Manihot dichotoma Ule is a small tree that grows up to 10 meters tall. Its stem is covered in a smooth grey bark, and its branches are thin and delicate. Its leaves are shiny, deep green in color, and have a pointed shape. The plant produces flowers in clusters that are small and white in color. The fruit produced by the Cassava Capixaba is small and contains black seeds.
Common Names
In addition to Cassava Capixaba, Manihot dichotoma Ule is also commonly known as Capixaba, Capixaba-Mansa, Mandupé, Mandupé-Mansa, and Mandupé-Miúdo in Brazil.
Uses
The Cassava Capixaba has several uses, many of which are medicinal. The plant's roots and leaves are used for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and have been traditionally used to treat skin conditions, infections, and even cancer. Its leaves are also used to make a tea that is believed to have a calming effect on the body. Additionally, the plant's roots are eaten after being cooked to eliminate toxic compounds such as cyanide. The Cassava Capixaba is also used as an ingredient in various dishes in Brazil, such as fish stews and soups.
Light Requirements
Manihot dichotoma Ule thrives in full sunlight exposure. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to grow optimally. Therefore, it is advisable to plant the species in an area with open exposure to sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature for the growth of Manihot dichotoma Ule is between 20 and 30°C. The species cannot withstand frost or freezing temperatures, so it is best planted in areas with warm temperatures. Additionally, the plant requires well-drained soil to prevent root rot, which can be caused by excessively moist soil.
Soil Requirements
Manihot dichotoma Ule requires well-drained, loose, and fertile soil. Acidic soil is not suitable for the plant's growth. The soil should be amended with organic matter to increase its fertility and moisture-holding capacity. Before planting, it is recommended to prepare the soil by removing weeds and incorporating organic matter. The plant can also tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils.
Cultivation Methods
Manihot dichotoma Ule, commonly known as the Mountain Cassava, is a hardy and drought-tolerant plant. It grows well in tropical, subtropical, and arid regions. The plant is propagated through stem cuttings or by sowing seeds. It is essential to select a well-draining soil for cultivation. The ideal soil pH ranges from 5.5 to 6.5. It can be grown in containers or directly in the ground.
Watering Needs
The Mountain Cassava plant can withstand drought, but it requires regular watering for optimal growth. When planting in the ground, water the plant generously once every two weeks during the dry season. In areas with high rainfall, the plant can do well with minimal watering. When planting in containers, water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not excessively wet. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The Mountain Cassava plant requires regular fertilization to provide the necessary nutrients for optimal growth. Fertilize the plant every three months using a balanced fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. It is also essential to apply organic fertilizers such as compost, cow manure, or chicken manure to boost soil fertility and improve soil structure.
Pruning
Pruning the Mountain Cassava plant helps to promote bushier growth and improve the quality and quantity of the harvest. Prune the plant after it has reached a height of 1.5 meters. Cut off the top of the stem to encourage lateral growth. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches regularly. It is essential to use sharp and sterilized pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Manihot dichotoma Ule
Manihot dichotoma Ule can be propagated through either seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Manihot dichotoma Ule are best sown in a prepared seedbed. The seeds should be planted at a depth of about 1 cm and covered with fine soil. The soil should be kept moist until germination, which usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks.
Seedlings of Manihot dichotoma Ule can be transplanted to a larger pot or into the ground once they have developed a few true leaves.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings of Manihot dichotoma Ule can be taken from the upper part of the stem. Cuttings should be about 15 to 20 cm long and should include two to three nodes.
The cuttings should be allowed to dry for a few hours before planting in a pot filled with potting mix. The cuttings should be planted at a depth of about 5 cm and kept moist. Roots should form in about 2 to 3 weeks.
Once the cuttings have developed roots, they can be transplanted into the ground or into a larger pot.
Disease and Pest Management for Manihot dichotoma Ule
Manihot dichotoma Ule, also known as the Dichotomous Cassava, is a plant native to Brazil and commonly found in tropical regions. Like any other plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can cause damage and reduce yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Cassava Bacterial Blight: This disease is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas axonopodis and can cause significant yield loss. Symptoms include water-soaked lesions on leaves and stems that can eventually turn brown and cause the plant to wilt. To manage this disease, it is recommended to plant disease-free cuttings, remove and destroy infected plants, and practice crop rotation.
Cassava Mosaic Disease: This viral disease is transmitted by whiteflies and can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and reduced yield. To manage this disease, it is recommended to use resistant varieties, remove and destroy infected plants, and control whiteflies through the use of insecticides or biological control.
Pests
Cassava Green Mite: This pest can cause significant yield loss by feeding on the leaves and sucking sap from the plant. Symptoms include yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To manage this pest, it is recommended to use insecticides or biological control and practice crop rotation.
Cassava Whitefly: This pest can transmit viral diseases and cause reduced yield. Symptoms include yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To manage this pest, it is recommended to use insecticides or biological control and remove and destroy infected plants.
Overall, disease and pest management for Manihot dichotoma Ule involves a combination of practices, including planting disease-free cuttings and resistant varieties, practicing crop rotation, and using insecticides or biological control to manage pests. By implementing these measures, farmers can minimize the damage caused by diseases and pests and improve their crop yield.
