Overview of Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. lacera (Baker) Aubrév.
Manikara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. lacera (Baker) Aubrév. is commonly known as "mule's fat" or "bastard bulletwood." This tree is native to the tropical forest regions of West and Central Africa and is widely distributed throughout Cameroon, Congo, Gabon, and Ivory Coast.
Appearance
The tree can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a trunk that can reach 50 to 130 centimeters in diameter. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and are simple and alternate. The flowers are small and yellowish-white and occur in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a berry-like drupe that is 2 to 3 centimeters in diameter and orange-yellow when ripe.
Uses
The wood of Manilkara multinervis is prized for its hardness, durability, and resistance to decay. It is used for heavy construction, flooring, and furniture-making. The bark and leaves of the tree have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including malaria, yellow fever, and indigestion. The fruit is edible and is consumed by locals.
Furthermore, the resin of the tree is used for making chewing gum and toothpaste, and the latex sap can be used as a glue or as a source for the production of natural rubber. The wood also produces high-quality charcoal, which is used as a fuel for cooking and heating.
Manilkara multinervis is also popular for landscape purposes as an ornamental tree in large gardens and parks.
Light Requirements
Manilkara multinervis subsp. lacera thrives best in full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate some shade but not for extended periods as this may cause reduced growth rates and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm tropical temperatures of between 20°C to 30°C. It can also tolerate temperatures as low as 13°C but prolonged exposure to such low temperatures can slow down growth and cause damage to the leaves and stems.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires a well-drained soil that has good moisture retention capabilities. It grows best in soils with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant can tolerate sandy soils, but it must be rich in organic matter so as to retain moisture. The plant does not do well in waterlogged soils as it is susceptible to root rot.
Cultivation
Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. lacera (Baker) Aubrév. prefers warm humid climates, and can only grow in areas that provide a minimum temperature above 15°C. The plant tolerates partial shade, with direct sunlight being limited to the early morning or late afternoon. Preferred soil types are sandy or loamy soil with well-drained properties. It is possible to cultivate Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. lacera (Baker) Aubrév. in pots, but it is essential to ensure adequate drainage within the container. In tropical regions, Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. lacera (Baker) Aubrév. can grow all year round and reach up to 40 meters in height.
Watering Needs
Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. lacera (Baker) Aubrév. is intolerant to drought, therefore consistent moisture should be maintained for proper growth. Watering should be frequent, especially during dry seasons. However, over-watering should be avoided, as this can lead to root rot. The application of mulch can improve the retention of moisture and reduce the frequency of watering needed. During the rainy season, it is best not to water the plant unless the rainfall amounts are not sufficient.
Fertilization
Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. lacera (Baker) Aubrév. benefits significantly from the application of fertilizers. The recommended period of application is during the early stages of growth. Organic or inorganic fertilizers can be used, with NPK being the primary components in inorganic fertilizer. The ratio of NPK should be 2:1:1.5 or 3:1:2. Application of fertilizers should be done at least twice a year, with a two-month interval between applications. Excessive application of fertilizers should be avoided.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to the cultivation of Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. lacera (Baker) Aubrév. The process involves removing damaged, diseased, or dead branches. Additionally, pruning can be done to thin out the canopy, improving air circulation and allowing sunlight into the inner parts of the plant. Pruning should be done during the dry season when the plant is dormant. It is essential to make clean cuts, as any damage to the bark can lead to infection or pest infestation. Care should be taken during pruning to avoid the removal of essential branches that contribute to the plant's overall shape and health.
Propagation methods
Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. lacera (Baker) Aubrév. can be propagated through various methods:
Seed propagation
Seeds are the primary method of propagation for Manilkara multinervis. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits, washed, and dried in the shade before sowing them. The seeds are sown in a compost mixture containing sand and peat moss in a plastic pot. The pots are kept in a shady and humid place with a temperature range of 25-30°C. Germination can take anywhere from 1 to 2 months. Once they have developed 2-3 leaves, they can be moved to individual pots. The seedlings are then gradually acclimatized to the outdoor environment.
Cuttings Propagation
Manilkara multinervis can also be propagated by cuttings using young, semi-hardwood material from the stem. The rooting hormone can be applied to the cuttings, which are then stuck into a potting mix of sand and perlite. The pot is misted regularly, and the cuttings are kept in a shaded and humid location. Roots are expected to appear after six weeks, indicating that it is time to transplant the cuttings into individual pots and keep them under suitable conditions until they grow to a substantial size.
Disease Management
Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. lacera (Baker) Aubrév. may be susceptible to various diseases that can threaten its growth and development. Some of the common diseases of this plant include:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can affect the leaves and branches of the plant. The infected portions of the plant may become discolored, and the leaves may fall off prematurely. To manage this problem, you should prune and destroy the infected parts of the plant. Fungicides may be used as a preventative measure.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne pathogens that affect the roots of the plant. Affected plants may show stunted growth and may wilt easily. To prevent root rot, you should plant the seedlings in well-drained soil. Avoid over-watering, and remove any weeds or debris from around the base of the plant.
Pest Management
Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. lacera (Baker) Aubrév. may also be attacked by various pests that can cause damage to the plant. Some common pests of this plant include:
- Mealybugs: These soft-bodied insects suck the sap from the plant and can cause wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To manage mealybugs, you can use insecticidal soap or insecticides. Neem oil can also be effective at preventing mealybugs.
- Spider mites: These tiny arachnids feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing and dryness of the leaves. To manage spider mites, you can use a strong blast of water to wash them off the plant. Insecticides and miticides may also be used.
Regular monitoring of the plant and proper cultural practices such as adequate watering, fertilization, and pruning can also help prevent the onset of diseases and pest infestations in Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. lacera (Baker) Aubrév..
