Overview
Memecylon diluviorum Exell is a plant species in the family Melastomataceae. It is a shrub or small tree that is native to western Africa.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "banuri" or "banure" in Sierra Leone and "efinrin" in Nigeria.
Uses
Memecylon diluviorum Exell is not commonly used in traditional medicine, but the leaves and stem bark have been found to contain compounds with antifungal and antibacterial properties. The plant is also used for ornamental purposes.
Appearance
The plant can grow up to 6 meters tall and has a trunk that is 10 to 15 centimeters in diameter. The leaves are elliptic in shape and measure about 5 to 15 centimeters long and 2 to 5 centimeters wide. The flowers are small and white, and appear in clusters at the tips of branches. The fruit is a berry that is about 1 centimeter in diameter and contains many small seeds.
Light Requirements
Memecylon diluviorum Exell grows well under moderate to bright indirect light. It can also tolerate partial shade. Direct sunlight should be avoided as it can scorch the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures between 18-28°C (64-82°F). It cannot tolerate frost or extreme cold. It is essential to keep the plant away from drafts and cold air conditioning.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in well-draining soil with good organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic, between 5.5 to 6.5. It is recommended to add perlite or coarse sand to the soil to increase drainage.
Cultivation of Memecylon diluviorum Exell
Memecylon diluviorum Exell is a species that requires tropical conditions to thrive. It can be grown in gardens or in large pots as a houseplant.
The plant prefers rich, well-drained soil. It will grow best with organic matter amended soil or a mixture of equal parts compost, perlite, and peat moss. A pH level of 6.5 to 7.5 is ideal for the plant.
During the growing season, the plant requires temperatures between 20°C to 35°C and high humidity to thrive.
Watering Needs
Memecylon diluviorum Exell requires regular watering to keep the soil damp. However, waterlogging the soil can lead to root rot. You should water the plant deeply and frequently, and avoid allowing the soil to dry out completely. The frequency of watering will depend on factors such as air temperature, humidity, and soil type.
It is best to avoid overhead watering and instead directs water towards the base of the plant to avoid causing any damage to leaves or blooms.
Fertilization
To encourage healthy growth, it is essential to fertilize the plant regularly. The best time to fertilize is during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer, such as 6-6-6, will work best to promote healthy foliage, blooms, and root growth.
You can use organic compost or slow-release fertilizers, which can be applied every six months. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant as this can lead to stunted growth and root damage.
Pruning
Memecylon diluviorum Exell requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and keep it from becoming too leggy. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins to leave enough time for recovery and growth.
You can remove any damaged, yellowed or dead leaves and stems. Aim to remove no more than one-third of the plant each season, as this can cause stress to the plant. With regular pruning, the plant should maintain a healthy shape and be aesthetically pleasing.
Propagation of Memecylon diluviorum Exell
Memecylon diluviorum Exell plants can be propagated by three methods - seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation by seeds
Seeds of Memecylon diluviorum Exell should be collected from mature fruits and sown in a mixture of sand, soil, and organic matter. It is important to keep the soil moist and warm (25-30°C) for optimal germination rates, which can take up to a few weeks. Once the seedlings have reached a sufficient size and have developed roots, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by cuttings
Softwood cuttings of Memecylon diluviorum Exell can be taken from the tip of a branch in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be approximately 10-15 cm long and have at least three nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. The cutting can then be planted in a mixture of sand and soil and kept moist. Rooting can take up to a few months, and once the cuttings have developed roots, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by air layering
Air layering is a propagation method that is best done in spring or early summer. Select a healthy branch that is flexible and without any damages, and make a small wound on the bark about 10-15 cm from the tip. Apply rooting hormone to the wound and wrap it with moist sphagnum moss or peat moss, followed by plastic wrap to keep the moisture in. Roots will begin to grow from the wound in a few weeks, and once they are visible, the stem can be cut just below the rooted section and planted in a separate pot with well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Memecylon diluviorum Exell
Memecylon diluviorum Exell is a relatively less studied species of plant, and not much information is available about the disease and pest management aspects of this plant. However, some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant are discussed below along with some tips on how to manage them.
Common diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Memecylon diluviorum Exell is root rot. This disease is caused by fungi and is most prevalent in wet conditions. The disease can be prevented by avoiding overwatering the plant and ensuring good drainage of the soil. Another common disease that can affect this plant is leaf spot, which is characterized by brown or yellow spots on the leaves. This disease can be managed by removing the affected leaves and ensuring good air circulation around the plant.
Common pests
One of the most common pests that can affect Memecylon diluviorum Exell is the mealybug. Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. These pests can be managed by removing them manually or by using insecticidal soap. Another common pest that can affect this plant is the spider mite. Spider mites can cause yellowing of leaves and webbing on the plant. These pests can be managed by using a miticide or by wiping the leaves regularly with a damp cloth.
It is important to note that prevention is better than cure when it comes to disease and pest management. Regularly checking the plant for any signs of disease or pests and providing appropriate care and maintenance can help prevent the occurrence of these problems. Additionally, using organic and natural methods for pest management can help reduce the impact on the environment and maintain the health of the plant in the long run.
