Overview
Momordica diplotrimera Harms is a plant species belonging to the family Cucurbitaceae. It is known for its unique fruit, which belongs to the group of bitter melons and commonly known as “African horned cucumber”.
Origin
The plant is native to the tropical regions of Africa, including Angola, Gabon, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia.
Common Names
The plant is known by various names, depending on the region. Some of the most common names include:
- African horned cucumber
- Wild cucumber
- Makuwa
- Onyangu
- Lumbi
Uses
Momordica diplotrimera Harms is valued for its medicinal and nutritional properties. The fruit is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and minerals like calcium and potassium. It is also used to treat various ailments, including fever, stomach problems, malaria, and diabetes. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat snakebites, skin diseases, and respiratory infections. In addition, the seeds of the plant are used to prepare cooking oil.
General Appearance
The Momordica diplotrimera Harms plant is a vigorous climber and can grow up to 6 meters long. The leaves are large and heart-shaped, and the flowers are greenish-yellow and unisexual. The fruit of the plant is oblong or cylindrical, with a warty surface and length of up to 15 cm. The fruit’s pulp is orange, juicy, and contains numerous seeds. When ripe, the fruit has a sweet aroma and taste, but when unripe, it is bitter.
Light Requirements
Momordica diplotrimera Harms typically grows in full sun or partial shade. In its native habitat, the plant grows in areas with high levels of sunlight. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to thrive. The plant will not do well in areas with low light intensity or areas that are shaded for most of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in a range of temperatures, although it prefers a warm and humid environment. Optimal temperatures for growth are between 20-32°C (68-90°F). Temperatures lower than 10°C (50°F) can affect growth and, in some cases, may cause the plant to die. High humidity is also essential for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in well-drained soils with a pH range of 6.5-7.5. The soil should be fertile and rich in organic matter. Sandy loam soil is suitable for planting, and the plant's roots require good aeration. Waterlogging should be avoided by planting in raised beds or mounds. The plant is sensitive to saline soils, so they should be avoided.
Cultivation Methods
Momordica diplotrimera Harms, commonly known as African star apple, is a tropical fruit tree native to West Africa. To cultivate this plant successfully, you will need a warm and humid environment with well-draining soil. It is best grown in the tropical regions where temperatures range between 20-30°C. The plant is sensitive to frost and cannot tolerate low temperatures.
For successful cultivation, plant the seeds in a well-prepared planting hole in the field, during the rainy season when the soil is moist. Alternatively, you may plant the seeds in pots and transplant later once they reach the desired height.
Watering Needs
Momordica diplotrimera Harms requires adequate watering for successful growth. During the dry season, water the plant regularly in the morning and evening to prevent wilting, which may lead to poor growth. Additionally, ensure that the soil remains moist, but not waterlogged, as this may lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The African star apple plant requires a balanced fertilizer to enhance its growth and fruit production. Apply a 2:1:1 or 3:1:2 NPK fertilizer three times a year, during the rainy or wet periods, to supply the plant with the necessary nutrients. Additionally, apply organic fertilizers such as cow manure or compost to improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Momordica diplotrimera Harms requires minimal pruning, but it is essential to remove dead or diseased branches to promote healthy growth. You may also prune to remove crowded branches to open up space for light penetration. Ensure to use clean pruning tools to prevent the spread of infections.
Propagation of Momordica diplotrimera Harms
Momordica diplotrimera Harms, commonly known as "Ogiri" in Nigeria, is a perennial climber of the Cucurbitaceae family. Propagation of this plant is mainly done using seeds and cuttings.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Momordica diplotrimera Harms are collected from mature fruits that have turned yellow or orange in color. The collected seeds are then dried under shade and stored in a dry place away from moisture until they are ready for planting. The planting is usually done at the beginning of the rainy season when soil moisture is high.
Before planting, the seeds are soaked in a bowl of water for about 24 hours. Soaking helps to soften the seed coat and increase its chances of germination. After soaking, the seeds are planted in a seedbed or directly to the field. The seedbed or field must be well-prepared by loosening the soil and removing any debris that may hinder germination.
The seeds are planted at a depth of 1-2 cm with a spacing of 30-40 cm between rows and 15-20 cm between plants within the row. The seeds start germinating after 5-10 days, and the seedlings are ready for transplanting after 3-4 weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation of Momordica diplotrimera Harms is done using stem cuttings taken from mature and healthy plants. The cuttings should be about 20-25 cm long, with 2-3 nodes each. The bottom leaves of the cuttings are removed, leaving only the top two to three leaves.
The cuttings are then soaked in water for about 24 hours before they are planted in a rooting medium. The rooting medium can be a mixture of sand and soil or a mixture of river sand and compost. The cuttings should be planted at a depth of 5-6 cm, and the medium should be kept moist until rooting occurs.
The cuttings take about 2-3 weeks to root, and they are ready for transplanting to the field after 4-6 weeks. After transplanting, the plants should be watered regularly and supported with trellises or stakes as they grow.
Disease Management
Momordica diplotrimera Harms can be subject to fungal and bacterial diseases.
In order to prevent fungal diseases, it is important to keep the plant dry and well-ventilated. Fungal infections can often occur as a result of damp leaves, so avoid watering the plant excessively and ensure it has adequate drainage. If you do spot signs of fungal disease, you may need to apply a fungicide.
Bacterial diseases can be quite serious and may require the use of antibiotics to treat the plant. To prevent bacterial diseases, it is important to keep the plant clean and free of debris, as bacteria can often thrive in damp and dirty environments.
Pest Management
Momordica diplotrimera Harms can be affected by a variety of pests, including aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs.
Aphids can often be controlled by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water, or by using an insecticidal soap. Spider mites may require a miticide to eliminate, while mealybugs can be controlled using insecticidal soap or horticultural oils.
It is important to monitor the plant regularly for signs of pest infestation, and to take action quickly to prevent the problem from getting out of control.
