Origin of Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. sylvestris (Aubrév. & Pellegr.) Aubrév.
Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. sylvestris (Aubrév. & Pellegr.) Aubrév. is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Sapotaceae family. The plant is native to West and Central Africa, including countries such as Cameroon, Ghana, Gabon, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. The species thrives in tropical rainforests and moist lowland areas, often growing to heights of up to 50 meters.
Common Names
Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. sylvestris (Aubrév. & Pellegr.) Aubrév. is commonly known by several names across the African region. In Cameroon, it is called "Abang", while in Ghana, it is referred to as "Asie". In Sierra Leone, it is known as "Kambui", while in Gabon, it is called "Obang".
Uses
The plant has numerous uses in traditional medicine systems across Africa. The bark of Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. sylvestris (Aubrév. & Pellegr.) Aubrév. is used to treat various ailments such as fever, headache, and diarrhea. The sap from the tree's bark is also used to treat wounds and skin infections. Additionally, the plant's wood is highly valued in the construction industry due to its durability and strength.
General Appearance
Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. sylvestris (Aubrév. & Pellegr.) Aubrév. is a tall evergreen tree that can grow up to 50 meters tall. The plant has dark green, glossy leaves that are oblong in shape and about 10 cm long. The bark of the tree is greyish-brown and rough in texture. The plant produces small, white, fragrant flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The plant's fruit is a round berry that is about 2 cm in diameter and turns yellow when ripe.
Light Requirements:
Manilkara multinervis subsp. sylvestris requires a moderate amount of direct or indirect sunlight to grow healthily. They grow well in full sun to partial shade conditions.
Temperature Requirements:
The plant grows well in a warm tropical climate. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 20°C to 35°C. Cool temperatures or frost can damage the plant, and it cannot survive in temperatures below 0°C.
Soil Requirements:
The plant grows well in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range of 5.5-7.5. The plant is also tolerant of sandy or clay soils.
The soil should be moist but well-drained since this plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils. Stagnant water leads to root rot, so it's essential to avoid overwatering.
Cultivation
Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. sylvestris (Aubrév. & Pellegr.) Aubrév. is a tropical tree that thrives in warm and humid environments. It can be grown indoors or outdoors in areas with a minimum temperature of 60°F (15°C). If growing indoors, ensure that the plant receives adequate light and is not in a drafty area. When planting outdoors, choose a location where the tree will receive partial to full sun.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is essential for the growth and well-being of Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. sylvestris (Aubrév. & Pellegr.) Aubrév. During the growing season, the tree requires consistent moisture, but it is essential to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering will depend on the humidity levels, temperature, and soil type. Generally, the soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilizing Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. sylvestris (Aubrév. & Pellegr.) Aubrév. will promote growth and improve fruit production. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer during the growing season, following the manufacturer's instructions. Over-fertilization should be avoided as it can lead to excessive growth and reduce fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. sylvestris (Aubrév. & Pellegr.) Aubrév. is essential for maintaining the tree's shape, removing damaged or diseased branches, and promoting fruit production. Prune the tree during the dormant season, which is usually in winter. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce the tree's fruit production. It is also essential to sterilize pruning tools before and after use to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. sylvestris (Aubrév. & Pellegr.) Aubrév.
Manilkara multinervis (Baker) Dubard subsp. sylvestris (Aubrév. & Pellegr.) Aubrév., also known as "katira" or "gum karaya" tree, can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Manilkara multinervis should be collected when mature and fully developed, as immature seeds may not germinate. The seeds should be soaked in warm water for about 24 hours to soften the hard outer coating, making it easier for the embryonic shoot to emerge. After soaking, the seeds should be sown vertically in a pot or directly in the field, with the top portion of the seed barely covered by soil. Seedlings will emerge within 2-3 weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Manilkara multinervis can be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy trees during the dormant season. The cuttings should be about 15-20 cm long, with at least two nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone before being planted in a rooting medium. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid environment until root development is observed.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method of propagation for Manilkara multinervis. An incision should be made in the bark of a mature, healthy tree, and a rooting hormone should be applied to the wound. The wounded area should then be wrapped in damp sphagnum moss, and covered with plastic to retain moisture. Once roots have developed, the new plant can be detached and transplanted into a new container or directly into the field.
Disease Management
Manilkara multinervis subsp. sylvestris is susceptible to various diseases that can cause a significant reduction in plant growth and yield. The following are the most common diseases that affect the plant:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease causes leaf spots, defoliation, and cankers on stems and fruits. To manage anthracnose, use fungicides containing copper or chlorothalonil and remove and destroy infected plant parts.
- Phytophthora root rot: This fungal disease attacks the roots of the plant, causing wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. To manage phytophthora root rot, use fungicides containing mefenoxam or metalaxyl, improve soil drainage, and avoid over-watering and over-fertilization.
- Botryosphaeria canker: This fungal disease causes cankers on the plant's trunk and branches, leading to dieback of affected plant parts. To manage botryosphaeria canker, prune and destroy infected branches and apply fungicides containing thiophanate-methyl or propiconazole.
Pest Management
Manilkara multinervis subsp. sylvestris is also susceptible to various pests that can cause damage to the plant. The following are the most common pests that affect the plant:
- Mealybugs: These insects suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and stunting. To manage mealybugs, use insecticides containing imidacloprid, acetamiprid, or thiamethoxam and remove and destroy heavily infested plant parts.
- Spider mites: These small insects suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and webbing on the leaves. To manage spider mites, use insecticides containing abamectin or spiromesifen and increase humidity levels around the plant to discourage mite activity.
- Caterpillars: These larvae feed on the leaves and fruit of the plant, causing significant damage. To manage caterpillars, use insecticides containing Bacillus thuringiensis or spinosad and handpick and destroy the larvae.
