Memecylon macrodendron Gilg ex Engl.
Memecylon macrodendron Gilg ex Engl. is a species of flowering plant in the Melastomataceae family. It is native to tropical Africa, specifically found in countries such as Angola, Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Akasa" or "Ekasa" in some African countries.
Uses
The plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes. Different parts of the plant have been used to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and stomachache. The bark has been used to treat snake bites, while the roots are used to reduce inflammation and pain. The plant is also known for its astringent properties and has been used to clean wounds and sores.
Additionally, the plant is also used for ornamental purposes. Its beautiful, glossy leaves and purple flowers make it a popular choice for landscaping and garden decoration in some African countries.
General Appearance
Memecylon macrodendron Gilg ex Engl. is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall. It has a straight trunk, with a smooth bark that is pale grey in color. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oval-shaped, with a glossy dark green color that can grow up to 20 cm in length. The flowers are small, purple, and clustered together in inflorescences. The fruit is a small, round, and purplish-black berry containing numerous seeds.
Light Requirements
Memecylon macrodendron Gilg ex Engl. thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily to remain healthy. Insufficient light may result in stunted growth and a lack of flowering.
Temperature Preferences
Memecylon macrodendron Gilg ex Engl. prefers warm and humid environments with an optimal temperature range of 22-30°C (72-86°F). It cannot tolerate extreme temperatures and may experience leaf drop and other symptoms in temperatures below 10°C (50°F) or above 35°C (95°F).
Soil Requirements
Memecylon macrodendron Gilg ex Engl. prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. It thrives in soil that is rich in organic matter and retains moisture. It is recommended to add organic compost or other organic matter to the soil to ensure optimal growth.
Cultivation
Memecylon macrodendron Gilg ex Engl. is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity conditions.
It prefers well-draining soils that retain moisture but do not become waterlogged.
The plant can be grown in full sun or partial shade, but it is recommended to protect it from strong winds to avoid damaging its delicate leaves and branches.
Watering Needs
The Memecylon macrodendron Gilg ex Engl. is a thirsty plant that requires regular watering, especially during the hot and dry season.
It is recommended to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. Overwatering can also lead to the development of fungal diseases.
If grown in a container, it is essential to ensure proper drainage to prevent water from accumulating in the bottom of the pot.
Fertilization
Fertilization is important for the growth and development of Memecylon macrodendron Gilg ex Engl.
It is recommended to fertilize the plant every 2-3 months using a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of the Memecylon macrodendron Gilg ex Engl. plant.
The best time to prune is during the dormant season when the plant is not actively growing.
Dead or damaged branches and leaves should be removed promptly to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
Regular pruning can also help improve air circulation and sunlight penetration, leading to healthy growth and blooming.
Propagation methods of Memecylon macrodendron Gilg ex Engl.
Memecylon macrodendron Gilg ex Engl., also known as Bully Tree or Large-podded Memecylon, is a tropical plant that can be propagated by both sexual and asexual methods.
Propagation by seeds
The plant produces small, black, and shiny seeds that can be collected from ripe fruits during the rainy season. The seeds must be extracted, cleaned, and sown in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, and keep them moist by regularly watering them. The seeds will germinate in 2-4 weeks, depending on the temperature and humidity of the environment.
Propagation by cuttings
Memecylon macrodendron can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken from a healthy and mature plant. The cuttings must be gathered during the rainy season and treated with rooting hormone powder to increase the chances of success. The cuttings should be approximately 15-20 cm long, with several nodes and leaves. Remove the leaves from the lower part of the stem, leaving only a few on the top. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil mix, and keep them moist by covering them with a plastic bag or misting them. The cuttings will develop roots in 4-8 weeks, after which they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Propagation by air layering
Air layering is another effective method for propagating Memecylon macrodendron. Select a healthy branch that is at least one-year-old and still flexible. Make a ring-shaped cut on the bark, approximately 2 cm wide, and remove the bark and the cambium layer. Cover the area with a handful of sphagnum moss, and wrap it with a plastic sheet or aluminum foil, making sure to seal the ends tightly. Keep the moss moist by spraying it with water daily. After 8-12 weeks, roots will develop from the ringed area. Cut the branch below the rooted area and plant it in a well-draining soil mix.
Disease Management
Memecylon macrodendron is susceptible to various fungal diseases, including leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust. To manage these diseases, proper sanitation is essential. You should remove and destroy any infected plant material, such as leaves, branches, and fruits, to prevent the spread of the disease.
Preventive management involves regular inspection of plants to detect symptoms of diseases, such as leaf spots, blotches, and discolorations. You should also avoid overhead irrigation, which can spread the spores of fungal diseases. You should use fungicides when necessary, following manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions.
Pest Management
Memecylon macrodendron is prone to infestations by several pests, including thrips, mealybugs, and scales. These pests suck sap from plants, causing leaf discoloration, wilting, and distorted growth.
You can manage these pests using several methods. Firstly, you should prevent their entry by regularly inspecting plants for any signs of pest infestations, such as yellowing, curling, and stunted growth of leaves. You can also use mechanical or physical controls, such as handpicking, washing the plants with soapy water, or using sticky traps. Biological controls, such as predatory insects, mites, and nematodes, can be used, either alone or in combination with cultural and chemical controls.
Chemical controls, such as insecticides and miticides, can also be effective in managing pests, but should only be used as a last resort. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions when using them, and avoid spraying during hot and dry weather conditions.
