Plant Description
Manilkara welwitschii (Engl.) Dubard is a perennial, evergreen tree species that belongs to the Sapotaceae family. It is native to the African continent and can be found in countries such as Angola, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. The plant is also known by various common names depending on the region where it is growing. Some of its most popular names include African milkwood, umgwenya, mopane, mopani, and mophane.
General Appearance
The African milkwood tree can grow up to 20 meters tall and has a dense, spreading crown. The bark of the tree is grey to brown and can be rough to touch. The leaves are simple, alternate and elliptic in shape, with a glossy green surface and a smooth texture. The flowers are greenish-white, small, and compact, and are arranged in axillary clusters. The fruits are ovoid to nearly spherical and smooth, and measure around 2.5-4 cm in diameter. When ripe, the fruits turn yellow or orange, and their flesh is edible.
Uses
The African milkwood tree has various uses, both traditional and modern. The tree's bark, leaves, and fruit are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as coughs, colds, and respiratory infections. The bark is also used to make a traditional tonic that is believed to improve appetite and boost energy levels. The leaves and fruits are edible and are a source of food for humans and wildlife. The seeds of the African milkwood are rich in oil and can be pressed to produce a high-quality edible oil that is rich in essential fatty acids. Additionally, the wood of the plant can be used to make furniture, as well as a source of fuel and charcoal.
Cultivation
The African milkwood tree is relatively easy to cultivate and can grow in various types of soil. The tree prefers well-drained soils and is drought-resistant once established. The plant is propagated by seeds, which should be planted in spring or summer. The seeds germinate in about two to four weeks. The African milkwood can be grown as a standalone tree, as a hedge, or in a mixed planting with other native species. The tree does well in both full sun and partial shade, and the growth rate is slow to moderate.
Light Requirements
The Manilkara welwitschii plant requires bright, indirect sunlight to thrive. It prefers to be placed in a location where it can receive four to six hours of sunlight per day. Direct sunlight can burn the leaves of the plant, so it is best to place it in a partially shaded area.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm temperatures between 68 and 77°F (20 and 25°C). It can also survive in slightly cooler temperatures but will not grow as quickly. Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can harm the plant, so be sure to keep it in a location with a stable temperature.
Soil Requirements
The Manilkara welwitschii plant thrives in well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. It requires soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5, which is slightly acidic. The plant prefers soil that is consistently moist but not waterlogged. To ensure proper drainage, add perlite or sand to the soil mix.
Cultivation of Manilkara welwitschii
Manilkara welwitschii, also known as African Bulletwood or Kaura, is a slow-growing evergreen tree that is native to Western Africa. It can grow up to 30 meters tall and requires specific growing conditions to thrive. Here are some tips for cultivating Manilkara welwitschii:
Watering needs for Manilkara welwitschii
The African Bulletwood is a drought-resistant plant that does not require much water. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate dry weather conditions. However, it is essential to water the tree frequently during the first year of growth to help establish its root system. After the first year, you can cut back on watering but ensure that the soil stays slightly moist.
Fertilizing Manilkara welwitschii
African Bulletwood is a slow-growing tree and does not require frequent fertilization. However, you can add a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to help boost its growth. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers as they may affect the tree's flowering and fruiting.
Pruning Manilkara welwitschii
Manilkara welwitschii does not require pruning as it grows with a naturally attractive shape. However, you can remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to keep the tree healthy and improve its appearance. It is recommended to prune the tree during the dormant season to minimize stress on the tree.
Propagation of Manilkara welwitschii
Manilkara welwitschii, commonly known as mabuia, is a tropical tree species native to Central and Southern Africa. The tree is known for its valuable timber and medicinal properties.
Propagation by seed
Propagation of Manilkara welwitschii can be achieved by using seeds, which is the most common method. Seeds should be collected from mature fruits that have naturally fallen from the tree. The seeds should be soaked in lukewarm water for 24 hours before sowing to aid germination. The seeds are usually sown in individual pots and placed in shaded areas.
Propagation by cuttings
Another propagation method used for Manilkara welwitschii is by taking cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from mature trees during the dormant season. Semi-hardwood cuttings are recommended and should be 12-15 cm long with 2-3 nodes. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and placed in a rooting medium. To maintain high humidity, the cuttings should be covered with a plastic bag and kept in a shaded area. The rooting process takes 2-3 months, and the rooted cuttings should be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the soil.
Propagation by grafting
Grafting is a propagation method commonly used for Manilkara welwitschii because it provides an opportunity to combine the desirable traits of rootstock and scion. In general, it is not recommended for amateur gardeners. The best time to do grafting is during the growth season when the plants are actively growing. The rootstock should be healthy and young, around the same size as scion. The scion should be collected from mature trees. After grafting, the plants should be placed in a highly humid environment until they become established.
Regardless of the propagation method used, young Manilkara welwitschii plants should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly until they become established. At this point, they can be transplanted into their designated planting sites.
Disease Management
Manilkara welwitschii, also known as African cherry or mubaba, is relatively resistant to diseases. However, in some cases, it can be affected by fungal and bacterial pathogens.
Leaf spot disease: Leaf spot disease is caused by the fungus Phyllosticta manilkarae. Symptoms of leaf spot disease include the appearance of small water-soaked lesions that later turn brown or black, causing defoliation. To manage leaf spot disease, remove and destroy all fallen leaves and plant debris regularly. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. It creates large red to black lesions on fruit and can cause defoliation in severe cases. To control anthracnose, prune susceptible plant parts, remove and destroy fallen debris regularly, and use fungicides when necessary.
Pest Management
Manilkara welwitschii is also relatively pest-resistant. However, in some cases, some pests can cause damage to the plant.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, and fluffy insects that feed on the plant's sap. They excrete a sticky substance known as honeydew, which attracts ants that can spread the mealybugs to other plants. To manage mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Prune heavily infested plant parts and use yellow sticky traps to control and monitor adult populations.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny creatures that typically appear in hot and dry conditions. They cause yellow speckling on leaves and can cause defoliation in severe cases. To manage spider mites, use neem oil or insecticidal soap and keep the plant adequately hydrated.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies. They feed on leaves and can cause extensive damage in severe cases. To control caterpillars, remove and destroy infested plant parts, use biological controls such as Bacillus thuringiensis, or use insecticides when necessary.
