Description of Manilkara longistyla
Manikara longistyla, also known as Mimusops longistyla, is a medium-sized evergreen tree that belongs to the Sapotaceae family. The plant is native to the western parts of Africa, including countries such as Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo.
Common Names for Manilkara longistyla
The plant has several common names depending on the region, including African locust bean, African chewing gum, and matakabra.
Uses of Manilkara longistyla
Manilkara longistyla is a valuable plant with various economic, medicinal, and ecological uses. The tree produces edible fruits that are rich in carbohydrates, protein, and minerals. The pods of the plant also have industrial potential used in making dyes, adhesives, and waterproofing agents. Additionally, Manilkara longistyla is used in traditional medicine to treat several ailments, including fever, diarrhea, and dysentery.
The tree plays an essential ecological role in providing habitat for wildlife, such as birds and bats that feed on the nectar and fruits.
General Appearance of Manilkara longistyla
The plant can reach a height of up to 30 meters, with a trunk diameter of up to 1 meter. The bark is grayish-brown, and the leaves are simple, dark green, and glossy with an elliptical shape. The plant produces fragrant flowers that are small and pale-yellow in color. The fruits of the plant are large, oval, and fleshy with a reddish-brown color.
Light Requirements
Manilkara longistyla requires full sun to partial shade for healthy growth. It can tolerate partial shade but full sun exposure is preferable as it promotes better flowering and fruiting. Inadequate sunlight may affect the plant's overall growth and development, resulting in weak stems, reduced flowering, and poor fruit yield.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Manilkara longistyla growth is between 20°C to 32°C (68°F to 90°F). It prefers warm and humid climates but can withstand moderate frost, although extended periods of cold weather may damage young plants. Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) should be avoided as it can harm the plant's growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Manilkara longistyla prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, but prefers slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant is moderately drought-tolerant but requires regular watering during the dry season to maintain optimal growth. Heavy soils with poor drainage should be avoided as it can cause root rot in the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Manilkara longistyla
Manilkara longistyla, also known as the African ebony tree, is a tropical tree species that requires warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive. It is best grown in areas with an annual average temperature of 20-30°C. The plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. Seedlings should be transplanted to their permanent position when they are 15-20 cm tall.
Watering Needs for Manilkara longistyla
Manilkara longistyla requires regular watering especially during the dry season. The plant prefers moist soil, but it can still survive in slightly dry soil conditions. Overwatering the plant can cause root rot, so it's essential to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. During the rainy season, reduce the frequency of watering to prevent waterlogging in the soil.
Fertilization for Manilkara longistyla
African ebony trees require regular fertilization to maintain their health and vigor. Nitrogen-rich fertilizers are recommended as they promote new growth. Fertilizers should be applied during the growing season, which is typically from spring to early autumn. Be careful not to over-fertilize the plant as this can cause excessive growth, which can weaken the tree structure.
Pruning for Manilkara longistyla
Pruning is an essential aspect of the care of Manilkara longistyla. It should be done to remove damaged or weak branches, improve air circulation, and maintain the desired shape. Pruning should be done during the dormant season or after flowering. Avoid pruning during the rainy season as the tree is susceptible to fungal infections at this time. It's essential to use sharp, clean pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Manilkara longistyla (De Wild.) C.M.Evrard
Propagation of Manilkara longistyla can be done through several methods, including seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Manilkara longistyla is by using its seeds. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits and sown immediately after collection. The seeds are cleaned, and the flesh is removed to prevent fungal infection. Ideally, a germination medium such as a mixture of sand and peat should be used to sow the seeds, but well-drained potting mix also works well. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1 cm, and the soil should remain moist until germination.
Vegetative Propagation
The plant can also be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings, air layering, and suckers. Stem cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy plants with a diameter of at least 1 cm. Cuttings should be taken during the rainy season, and approximately 15-20cm of stem should be cut. The bottom of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before planting it in a potting mix. The potting mix should be kept moist until the cutting establishes its roots. Air layering involves making a cut about 15-20 cm below the tip of a branch, removing the bark, applying rooting hormone, and wrapping it in a moist sphagnum moss bundle. When new roots appear, the rooted shoot can be cut and planted. Suckers are shoots that emerge from the base of the plant that can be separated and grown in their pots.
Grafting
Grafting may also be used to propagate the Manilkara longistyla. The scion, which is the top part, is taken from a mature, healthy plant, while the rootstock, which is the bottom part, is taken from a seedling. A cut is made at an angle on both the scion and the rootstock, and the two parts are joined together.
Disease and Pest Management for Manilkara longistyla (De Wild.) C.M.Evrard
Manilkara longistyla (De Wild.) C.M.Evrard, commonly known as African Pearwood or Ovangkol, is a tree species found in tropical Africa. Although it is a relatively hardy tree, it can be affected by a number of pests and diseases that can cause damage and reduce yields. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways you can manage them.
Leaf Spot Diseases
The most common fungal diseases that affect Manilkara longistyla are leaf spots. These diseases are typically caused by fungi such as Cercospora and Septoria. Symptoms of these diseases include spots on leaves, which can be yellow, brown, or black and can ultimately result in defoliation. To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain good hygiene and remove any infected leaves as soon as they appear. You can also use fungicides to control these diseases if they spread.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is another common fungal disease that can affect Manilkara longistyla. It is typically caused by the fungus Erysiphe and can result in stunted growth, leaf curling and discolouration. To control Powdery mildew, you can apply a fungicide or combine with cultural practices like pruning for enhanced air circulation and spacing of plants for better light penetration.
Termites
Another common pest that can attack Manilkara longistyla is termites. These pests are known to feed on the bark, resulting in structural damage or even death of the plant. To manage this pest, you can use chemical pesticides or employ cultural practices such as regular pruning and management of surrounding vegetation.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are another type of pests that can affect Manilkara longistyla. These insects can cause wilting, leaf yellowing, and even death of the plant if not controlled. To manage them, you can use a combination of methods such as spraying with insecticides or natural predator insects. Salts or oils as found in Neem based products also helps repel them.
Conclusion
By adopting the above-mentioned strategies, you can keep Manilkara longistyla healthy and productive, despite the possible attacks from pests and diseases. Regular inspection of the crops, especially during the wet season is an important part of pest and disease management.
