Origin and Common Names
Melastomastrum afzelii (Hook.f.) A.Fern. & R.Fern. var. dialonkeanum Jacq.-Fél. is a plant species native to the tropical rainforests of West and Central Africa. It is commonly known by several names, including "Dialonkea melastome" and "purple bell bush".
Appearance
The plant has a woody stem and grows up to 2 meters tall. The leaves are oval in shape, with a reddish-purple hue, and are arranged in an opposite pattern along the stem. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches and have a bright purple color, with a bell-shaped appearance. The fruit is a small, round, and dark purple berry, which is edible and often consumed by local communities.
Uses
Melastomastrum afzelii (Hook.f.) A.Fern. & R.Fern. var. dialonkeanum Jacq.-Fél. has several traditional uses in African medicine. The leaves and bark are used to treat a variety of illnesses, including malaria, fever, and diarrhea. The plant is also used as a natural dye, with the leaves and fruit used to create a deep purple color for textiles. In addition, the berries are consumed as a food source by both humans and wildlife, including birds and primates.
Growth Conditions of Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum
Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum is a tropical plant that grows naturally in the moist and shady areas of West Africa, particularly in Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia. The plant typically grows in the undergrowth of the forest and can reach a height of 1-2 meters.
Light Requirements
The plant prefers partial to complete shade and does not tolerate full sun exposure. It is adapted to growing under the shade of larger trees or in areas with a dense canopy cover. When grown in direct sunlight, the leaves may scorch, wilt, or turn yellow.
Temperature Requirements
Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum is a tropical plant that grows well in warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 16 degrees Celsius but may suffer damage if exposed to frost or freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. However, the soil must be able to retain moisture without becoming waterlogged. The ideal soil pH range for optimal growth is between 5.5 and 7.0.
Additionally, Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is suitable for this plant.
Cultivation
Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum is native to tropical regions of West Africa and can be cultivated in both indoor and outdoor conditions. When selecting a location, choose a spot that offers partial shade or full sun with well-draining soil.
Plant the Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum in soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be moist and rich in organic matter to promote healthy growth.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is essential for the growth of Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum. Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid allowing the plant to dry out as this can cause the leaves to wilt and fall off.
During the rainy season, reduce the amount of water given to the plant, as it will already be receiving plenty of moisture. In the dry season, increase watering slightly to compensate for the lack of rainfall.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization can help to promote healthy growth and vibrant flowers in Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every three months during the growing season (March to September).
Alternatively, you can use a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum, but it can help to promote bushier growth and more abundant flowering. Prune back any dead or damaged branches, and remove any old or faded flowers to encourage the growth of new blooms.
When pruning, use sharp, clean shears to minimize the risk of damage and infection. Prune in the early spring before new growth begins for best results.
Propagation of Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum
Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum is commonly propagated by seed, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds of Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum are generally collected directly from the plant when mature and dark in color. The seeds should be sown immediately after collection to maintain their viability. The seeds can be sown in trays or pots filled with well-draining soil mix. The trays or pots should be placed in a shaded area and watered regularly.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings of Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum can be taken during the growing season from the semi-hardened wood. The cuttings should be taken from the healthy plants, and the leaves should be removed from the lower half of the cutting. A rooting hormone can also be applied to the base of the cutting to promote rooting. The cuttings should be planted in soil mix and kept in a shaded area. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged until the cuttings have rooted.
Propagation by Layering
Layering is another method to propagate Melastomastrum afzelii var. dialonkeanum. In this method, a low-lying branch of the plant is bent down to the ground and covered with soil mix, leaving the growing tip exposed. The branch should be wounded or scraped gently to encourage the formation of adventitious roots. Once roots have formed, the branch can be separated from the parent plant and potted in a well-draining soil mix. The new plant should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly until it is established.
Disease Management
Melastomastrum afzelii (Hook.f.) A.Fern. & R.Fern. var. dialonkeanum Jacq.-Fél. is susceptible to various diseases. Here are some common diseases of the plant and how to manage them:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects Melastomastrum afzelii. It appears as circular or irregular brown or black spots on the leaves. The infected leaves eventually die and fall off. To manage this disease, remove and destroy all infected leaves. Avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant. Apply a fungicide labeled for use on Melastomastrum afzelii.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that can affect the plant. It appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems. Infected leaves may turn yellow and fall off. To manage this disease, remove and destroy all infected leaves. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Apply a fungicide labeled for use on Melastomastrum afzelii.
Pest Management
Melastomastrum afzelii (Hook.f.) A.Fern. & R.Fern. var. dialonkeanum Jacq.-Fél. is also susceptible to various pests. Here are some common pests of the plant and how to manage them:
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause damage to the leaves of the plant. They feed on the sap of the plant, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. You can also apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are another common pest of Melastomastrum afzelii. They appear as small white or gray insects that feed on the sap of the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove them manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. You can also apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant.
