Manilkara angolensis (Engl.) Lecomte ex Pellegr. - Overview
Manilkara angolensis, also known as the African milk tree or bulletwood, is a tall evergreen tree species native to the tropical regions of Africa. The tree belongs to the family Sapotaceae, and it is primarily found in Angola, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. This plant is known for its medicinal properties and valuable timber, making it a significant plant in various African cultures.
Appearance
The African milk tree can grow up to 35 meters tall with a straight, cylindrical trunk and a round crown. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown with deep irregular vertical furrows running the length of the trunk. The leaves are simple and glossy with a dark green color and a leathery texture. The tree produces small white flowers that grow in clusters, and its fruit is a berry-like orange or yellow drupe.
Uses
The African milk tree is highly valued for its timber as it produces a hard and heavy wood that is resistant to rot and insect attacks. The wood is used for making furniture, construction, and as a firewood source in many African communities.
The tree is also known for its medicinal properties. African traditional healers often use the bark and leaves to treat various ailments, including fever, diarrhea, skin infections, and respiratory problems. The bark of the tree is boiled and drunk as a decoction to treat these ailments.
Additionally, the fruit of the African milk tree is edible, and it is used to make a beverage that is believed to have medicinal properties. The beverage is made by fermenting the ripe fruit in water, sugar, and yeast, creating an alcoholic drink known as utshwala in the Zulu language.
Overall, Manilkara angolensis plays a significant role in African economies, cultures, and medicine.
Light Requirements
Manilkara angolensis is a tropical tree that thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers bright, but indirect sunlight. Plants that are grown in partial shade tend to grow slower and produce fewer flowers and fruits than those grown in full sun.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Manilkara angolensis is between 20°C to 35°C. It cannot tolerate freezing or extremely cold temperatures. If the temperature drops below 10°C, the leaves may start to yellow and drop, or the tree may die.
Soil Requirements
Manilkara angolensis grows best in well-draining, deep soils that are high in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a range of 6.0 to 7.5 being ideal. It cannot tolerate waterlogged or poorly-drained soil. The tree can also tolerate some level of salinity.
Cultivation methods for Manilkara angolensis (Engl.) Lecomte ex Pellegr.
Manilkara angolensis, also known as the Cedar milkwood or mnondo, is a tropical tree that grows in moist, well-drained soils in full sunlight. It is commonly found in parts of southern Africa and Madagascar.
When cultivating this plant, you should start by choosing a suitable site that has fertile soil and receives full sunlight. The seed should then be sown in a pot or directly on the ground. Transplanting can be done once the seedling has grown to about 60cm in height.
Regular watering is important for the healthy growth of the tree.
Watering needs of Manilkara angolensis (Engl.) Lecomte ex Pellegr.
The Cedar milkwood thrives best when it receives ample moisture. During the first year of growth, it is advisable to water the plant at least two to three times per week, especially during the dry season.
After the plant has established strong roots, it can tolerate longer periods of drought, but regular watering is still necessary to avoid stressing the tree. Avoid overwatering as this may lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization of Manilkara angolensis (Engl.) Lecomte ex Pellegr.
Manilkara angolensis does not require frequent fertilizer applications. A balanced fertilizer should be applied during the initial stages of growth to encourage healthy root development. Apply the fertilizer every three to four months during the growing season.
Compost and mulch can also be added around the base of the tree to provide additional nutrients. It is important to note that over-fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of fruiting, so it should be avoided.
Pruning of Manilkara angolensis (Engl.) Lecomte ex Pellegr.)
Pruning is important for the health and productivity of Manilkara angolensis. This tree can grow up to 20 meters tall if left unpruned, which makes harvesting difficult.
Prune the tree during the early stages of growth to develop a strong framework. After the tree has established, prune it once a year to remove dead or diseased branches and shape the tree for optimum fruiting.
Harvesting should also be done frequently to avoid overcrowding of the branches, which can reduce fruit quality and yield.
Propagation of Manilkara angolensis (Engl.) Lecomte ex Pellegr.
Manilkara angolensis (Engl.) Lecomte ex Pellegr. is commonly known as the bulletwood tree or bulletwood milk tree. It is a tropical tree commonly found in coastal areas of eastern and southern Africa. The tree can grow up to 40 meters tall and is mainly propagated through seeds and vegetative propagation.
Propagation Methods
1. Seed propagation: The seeds of the bulletwood tree are collected from freshly fallen fruits. After air-drying for a few days, the seeds can be sown in trays or pots containing well-draining potting soil. The seeds can be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist by watering lightly. The seeds will germimate within 1-2 months, and the seedlings can be transplanted into larger pots or planted directly in the field.
2. Vegetative propagation: The bulletwood tree can also be propagated vegetatively by stem cuttings. The cuttings should be collected from mature trees, and the leaves should be removed from the bottom half of the cutting. The bottom end of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and then planted in a pot containing a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be watered lightly and kept in a warm, humid place. The cutting will root within 1-2 months, and it can be transplanted into a larger pot or planted directly in the field.
Disease and Pest Management for Manilkara angolensis (Engl.) Lecomte ex Pellegr.
Manilkara angolensis (Engl.) Lecomte ex Pellegr., commonly known as the bullet wood tree, is a tropical plant found in Africa. It is commonly grown for its durable wood, but it can also be grown as an ornamental plant. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can negatively impact its growth and health.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect the bullet wood tree is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as white, powdery spots on the leaves and can cause them to wither and drop prematurely. To manage this disease, it is important to keep the plant's foliage dry and to avoid overwatering. Fungicides can also be applied to the affected areas.
Another disease that can affect the bullet wood tree is leaf spot. This bacterial disease causes dark spots to appear on the leaves, which can eventually lead to the leaves falling off. To manage this disease, it is important to remove any affected leaves and to apply a copper-based fungicide.
Common Pests
The bullet wood tree is also susceptible to pest infestations. One common pest is the bullet wood borer. This insect lays its eggs in the bark of the tree, which can cause significant damage to the plant. To manage this pest, it is important to prune away any infected areas and to apply an insecticide specifically designed for borers.
Mealybugs are another common pest that can infest the bullet wood tree. These insects appear as small, white, cottony masses on the leaves and stems of the plant and can weaken the plant over time. To manage this pest, it is important to remove any infected leaves and to apply an insecticidal soap or oil to the affected areas.
Conclusion
While the bullet wood tree is a hardy plant, it is not immune to diseases and pests. By being aware of the common diseases and pests that can affect it and taking appropriate measures to manage them, you can help ensure that your plant grows and thrives for years to come.
