Memecylon microphyllum Gilg
Memecylon microphyllum Gilg, commonly known as Memecylon, is a small tree belonging to the family Melastomataceae. It is native to tropical regions of Africa, specifically Zimbabwe and Mozambique.
Common Names
Memecylon microphyllum Gilg is commonly known as Memecylon in English and Umcece in the local language of Zimbabwe. It is also called Congonhas, Lerdeiro, and Mutagiti in other African regions.
Appearance
Memecylon microphyllum Gilg grows up to 15 meters in height and has a rounded canopy. Its bark is brown and slightly rough, and its leaves are evergreen, glossy, and simple, measuring 2-3 cm long and 1-1.5 cm wide. The small pink or white flowers are arranged in spikes, and the fruit is a drupe that turns from green to reddish-brown when ripe.
Uses
Various parts of Memecylon microphyllum Gilg have medicinal properties and are used in traditional African medicine to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and fever. The bark and leaves of the plant contain tannins and flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The fruit can be eaten raw or used in the preparation of sauces and jams. The wood of the tree is hard and durable, making it suitable for making tool handles and furniture.
Light Requirements
Memecylon microphyllum Gilg thrives in an environment that receives bright to partial sunlight. However, it is not tolerant of direct sunlight, which may damage the plant. It is advisable to place it in a location where it can receive filtered or dappled shade to avoid scorching or drying out of the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for growing Memecylon microphyllum Gilg is between 20°C and 30°C. It is a tropical plant that cannot tolerate extreme heat or cold. Ensure that the plant is kept away from temperature fluctuations and drafts, which may cause damage to the foliage.
Soil Requirements
Memecylon microphyllum Gilg grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for this plant is between 5.5 and 7.5. It can tolerate moderately acidic to slightly alkaline soil conditions. It is advisable to amend the soil with compost or aged manure to enhance fertility, drainage, and aeration.
Cultivation of Memecylon microphyllum Gilg
Memecylon microphyllum Gilg is a plant that grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. The best time to plant it is during the rainy season, which ensures a good supply of water for the plant to establish itself. The soil preferred for cultivation should be a mixture of sand, clay, and organic matter that is well-draining and rich in nutrients.
It is also essential to ensure that the plant is grown in an area with partial shade, as it does not tolerate direct sunlight well.
Watering Needs
Since Memecylon microphyllum Gilg is a tropical plant, it requires regular watering. It is essential to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, as too much water can lead to root rot. Therefore, watering once or twice a week, depending on the weather condition, is ideal.
Fertilization
Fertilizers are essential to improve the growth and development of the plant. For best results, a balanced, slow-release fertilizer should be applied once every three months during the growing season. To prevent fertilizer burn, make sure to water the plant after applying the fertilizer.
Pruning
Pruning is essential in maintaining the shape and the health of the plant. Memecylon microphyllum Gilg should be pruned after the blooming season, between autumn and late winter. The process involves removing any dead wood, diseased or damaged leaves and stems. The plant should be pruned lightly to promote bushy growth.
Propagation Methods for Memecylon Microphyllum Gilg
Memecylon microphyllum Gilg is propagated through a variety of methods, including seed propagation, cutting, layering and grafting.
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Memecylon microphyllum Gilg is by seed. Once the fruit is mature, it splits open and the seeds can be collected. The seeds should be soaked in water for a few hours, and then sown in a mixture of sand and compost. Germination usually takes 2 to 3 weeks and the seedlings should be kept in a humid area with partial shade. After a few months, the seedlings can be transplanted to a larger pot and then gradually acclimatized to outdoor growing conditions.
Cutting
Another propagation method is through cutting. Softwood cuttings can be taken from the plant’s new growth in spring or summer. The bottom part of the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a pot filled with perlite and peat moss. The cutting should be kept in a high-humidity environment with partial shade until it roots. After the roots are mature enough, the new plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or outdoor growing site.
Layering
Memecylon microphyllum Gilg can also be propagated by layering. In this method, a branch of the plant is bent down and planted in the soil, leaving the tip exposed. Roots will eventually develop where the branch meets the soil. After the roots are large enough, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to a larger pot or outdoor growing site.
Grafting
Grafting can also be used to propagate Memecylon microphyllum Gilg. In this method, a stem of the plant is cut and then grafted onto a rootstock of a related plant with a proven track record of thriving in the same growing conditions. After the graft heals, the new plant can be transplanted to a larger pot or outdoor growing site.
Disease and Pest Management for Memecylon microphyllum Gilg
Memecylon microphyllum Gilg is a highly valued plant species grown for its beautiful flowers and foliage. However, like any other plant, it is susceptible to pests and diseases. Proper management techniques are essential to keep this plant healthy and thriving.
Common Pests
Here are some of the common pests that may affect Memecylon microphyllum Gilg:
- Mealybugs: These are soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage them, wash them off with a stream of water or apply insecticidal soap.
- Thrips: These tiny insects feed on the leaves, buds and flowers of the plant and cause silvering or bronzing of the leaves. Regular watering and fertilization can prevent thrips infestation.
- Spider Mites: These are difficult to see small red or black insects that create a web-like coating on the plant. This causes leaves to turn pale or yellowed. Again, regular watering and fertilization can prevent spider mites infestation.
- Scale insects: These are hard-shelled insects that form clusters on leaves and shoots of the plant. They suck sap from the plant, leading to yellowing and dropping of leaves. To control them, remove them by hand or apply insecticides.
Common Diseases
Here are some common diseases that may affect Memecylon microphyllum Gilg:
- Leaf spots: Leaf spots appear as circular, brownish lesions on the leaves. They are caused by fungal or bacterial infections. Fungi thrive in wet conditions and may spread quickly. Therefore, limit overhead irrigation and keep the surrounding soil clean and well-drained.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that manifests as a white powdery substance on the leaves. It causes the plant to look unattractive and hinders photosynthesis. Treat powdery mildew by spraying fungicides and keeping the area around the plant clean and dry.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by a fungal infection that affects the root system of plants. Overwatering or poorly drained soil promotes the growth of the fungus. To prevent root rot, allow the soil to dry out before watering the plant and avoid waterlogging.
- Bacterial leaf blight: Bacterial leaf blight causes lesions on leaves, stems, and flowers. It spreads quickly in humid conditions. To control it, remove all infected parts and apply copper fungicide.
Applying preventive measures, such as proper watering and fertilization, regular pruning and cleaning up, and proper plant spacing, can help prevent diseases and pest infestations in Memecylon microphyllum Gilg.
