Overview
Melliniella micrantha Harms is a species of flowering plant in the family Melastomataceae. This shrub is native to Central and South America, particularly in Brazil, Peru, and Colombia.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as "cajón de gato", "uvito", and "uva de monte" in Spanish-speaking countries. In Brazil, it is known as "uvaia" and "pudim de macaco".
Appearance
The Melliniella micrantha Harms plant can reach a height of up to 5 meters. It has an upright habit, and its branches are thin and slightly angled. The leaves are alternate, oblong, and measure 4 to 11 cm in length by 2 to 5 cm in width. They are dark green on the upper side and pale green on the bottom. The flowers are small and white, arranged in terminal inflorescences of 4 to 23 cm in length. The fruit is a purple to reddish-black berry, with a diameter of 1 to 1.5 cm, and contains several small seeds.
Uses
The fruit of Melliniella micrantha Harms is edible and has a sweet and slightly acid flavor. It is used in jams, jellies, and desserts in traditional cuisine. The leaves of the plant are used in natural medicine to treat fever, inflammation, and pain. In some areas, the branches of the plant are used to make brooms.
Light requirements
The Melliniella micrantha plant requires full sunlight exposure for optimal growth. It cannot grow properly in shaded areas or indoors without a source of natural light. As a result, it should be grown in an open area where it can receive direct sunlight.
Temperature requirements
Melliniella micrantha plants can tolerate a range of temperatures. The ideal temperature range for these plants is between 18-25°C. They cannot tolerate extreme temperatures, especially frost. As a result, the plants should be kept indoors during cold weather or provided with a protective covering to ensure they do not die from frostbite.
Soil requirements
Melliniella micrantha plants grow well in well-drained soils. The soil must be maintained at a pH of 5.5 – 7.2. They can tolerate a range of soils, but it is recommended that the soil is rich in nutrients, especially organic matter. The ideal soil will have good drainage, adequate aeration, and moderate moisture retention. If planting in a pot, use a well-draining potting mix that contains peat or perlite.
Cultivation
Melliniella micrantha Harms can be propagated by stem cuttings, seeds, or grafting. It grows best in well-draining soil with ample organic matter and under partial shade with a temperature range of 20-30°C. It needs to be protected from strong winds and direct sunlight.
Watering
Proper watering is crucial for Melliniella micrantha. It requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. This plant is sensitive to drought. So, it needs to be watered frequently during the hot and dry season, but watering should be reduced during the winter or rainy season.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is necessary for Melliniella micrantha to thrive and bloom. Apply a balanced fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can stimulate leaf growth at the expense of flower development.
Pruning
Pruning Melliniella micrantha is essential to keep the bushy appearance and promote the growth of new shoots. It should be pruned after the flowering period or during the beginning of spring. Dead, damaged, or diseased branches should be removed, and the plant should be shaped to maintain its natural form.
Propagation of Melliniella micrantha Harms
Melliniella micrantha Harms, also known as the African pepper, is a perennial plant that can be propagated through different methods.
Seed propagation
One method of propagating Melliniella micrantha Harms is through seed propagation. The plant produces small, black seeds that can be harvested and sown in a well-draining potting mix. To increase germination rates, the seeds may require soaking in water for several hours before planting. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about a centimeter and kept moist until germination occurs, which usually takes one to two weeks.
Cutting propagation
Melliniella micrantha Harms can also be propagated through cuttings. To propagate through cuttings, choose a healthy stem, about 10-15 cm in length, and make a diagonal cut at the base of the stem. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the stem, leaving only a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end in a rooting hormone and insert it into a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cutting moist and in a warm, bright location, away from direct sunlight. After several weeks, the cutting should start to grow roots and new shoots.
Division propagation
Division propagation is another way to propagate Melliniella micrantha Harms. This method works best when the plant has become too large for its container or if it has started to produce multiple stems. Carefully remove the plant from its container or dig around the root system if it is planted in the ground. Gently pull the root mass apart into smaller sections, making sure that each section has enough roots and stems to establish itself. Replant each section into its new container or location and water it well.
Disease and Pest Management for Melliniella micrantha Harms Plant
Melliniella micrantha Harms, also known as the African umbrella tree, is a plant that is resistant to many pests and diseases. However, it is still vulnerable to some common diseases and pests that can cause significant harm if not properly managed. Here are some diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Leaf Spot Diseases
The African umbrella tree is susceptible to several leaf spot diseases, such as Cercospora spp., Phyllosticta spp., and Septoria spp. These diseases manifest as brown or black spots on the leaves. The leaves may also turn yellow and drop off. One way to manage leaf spot diseases is to remove the infected leaves and dispose of them properly to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be used to prevent and manage leaf spot diseases.
Root Rot
Root rot is a common problem for many plants, including Melliniella micrantha Harms. This disease occurs when the roots of the plant become infected with a fungus. The plant may start to wilt and the leaves may turn yellow or brown. To manage root rot, remove the affected plant from the soil and discard the infected plant parts. Allow the soil to dry out before replanting and avoid overwatering the plant in the future.
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can cause significant damage to the African umbrella tree. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing it to weaken and become stunted. Aphids also excrete a sticky substance that can attract other insects and promote the growth of mold. To manage aphids, wash the plant with water or spray it with insecticidal soap. Pruning off the heavily infested parts of the plant can also be effective.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny arachnids that cause damage to the plant by sucking the sap out of leaves. The leaves may become yellow or bronze, and small webs can be seen on the plant. To manage spider mites, wash the plant with water or spray it with insecticidal soap. Also, increase humidity around the plant to discourage spider mite growth.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the plant and suck out the sap. The plant may become stunted, wilted, and yellow as a result. To manage scale insects, prune off heavily infested parts of the plant, and wash the remaining parts with water or insecticidal soap. Repeated applications may be necessary.
In summary, while the African umbrella tree is a hardy plant, it can still be affected by diseases and pests. Proper management techniques, such as removing infected plant parts, using fungicides or insecticidal soaps, and increasing humidity, can help prevent and manage diseases and pests effectively.
