OLEA UROPHYLLA: A DESCRIPTION
Olea urophylla, also known as African olive, is a flowering tree species that belongs to the family Oleaceae. It is native to tropical and subtropical Africa, particularly in Angola, Cameroon, Gabon, and Nigeria.
COMMON NAMES
Along with African olive, the tree has several other common names such as Eweke (in Nigeria), Nzanso (in Cameroon), and Nkolikoko (in Gabon).
APPEARANCE
African olive grows up to a height of 15-20 meters and has a trunk diameter of about 40 cm. Its leaves are leathery, oblong, and dark green in color, measuring up to 20 cm in length. The tree produces small, white flowers that are arranged in clusters, followed by round or oval-shaped fruits that are green when young and turn black when ripe. Its bark is also a distinguishing feature, with a smooth and pale gray appearance when young and later becoming rough and grayish-brown with deep fissures.
USES
African olive has several uses, particularly in traditional African medicine. The tree's bark, leaves, and fruit contain various phytochemicals such as oleuropein, andrographolide, and flavonoids, all of which have medicinal properties. The bark decoction is used to treat fever, malaria, and gastrointestinal disorders, while the leaves and fruit extracts are used for wound healing, skin disorders, diabetes, and hypertension. The wood of African olive is also utilized as fuel and for carving.
In conclusion, Olea urophylla is a versatile plant species that possesses numerous health and commercial benefits.
Growth Conditions of Olea urophylla
Olea urophylla is a tropical evergreen tree that can grow up to 10 meters in height in optimal conditions. It is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly found in rainforests and lowland forests.
Light Requirements
The plant prefers partial to full sun exposure and can tolerate some shade. However, excessive shade can lead to leggy growth and reduced flower and fruit production. Therefore, it is recommended to provide at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Olea urophylla thrives in warm and humid climates with temperature ranges of 24-30°C (75-86°F). It is sensitive to frost and cannot withstand temperatures below 5°C (41°F). In cooler regions, the plant can be grown in a greenhouse or indoors as a houseplant.
Soil Requirements
The plant grows best in a well-draining, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. However, it is sensitive to waterlogged soils, and therefore, good drainage is essential to prevent root rot. Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer can help maintain optimal growth.
Cultivation methods for Olea urophylla (Gilg) Gilg & Schellenb.
Olea urophylla is a tropical evergreen tree that requires certain cultivation methods for optimal growth. It can be grown as a container plant or planted in the ground. The plant prefers full sun, well-draining soil, and a warm and humid environment.
When growing Olea urophylla in a container, make sure the pot is large enough to accommodate the plant's roots. Use a high-quality potting mix with good drainage and regularly fertilize the plant. If planting in the ground, ensure the soil is well-draining and slightly acidic.
Watering needs for Olea urophylla (Gilg) Gilg & Schellenb.
Proper watering is crucial for the health of Olea urophylla. The soil should remain moist but not waterlogged, as this can cause the roots to rot. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During winter months, reduce the frequency of watering to prevent over-watering and root rot.
Fertilization for Olea urophylla (Gilg) Gilg & Schellenb.
Fertilization is important to ensure the growth and development of Olea urophylla. When growing the plant in a container, use a slow-release fertilizer every three months to provide nutrients to the plant. In the ground, use a general-purpose fertilizer during the growing season and supplement with organic matter, such as compost, to improve soil quality. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when growth slows.
Pruning Olea urophylla (Gilg) Gilg & Schellenb.
Pruning Olea urophylla is essential to maintain the desired shape and size of the plant. Prune the tree in late winter or early spring before new growth appears to remove any dead or diseased branches. Additionally, remove any crossed or rubbing branches to prevent damage. If growing the plant in a container, regular pruning will be required to keep the size under control.
Propagation methods for Olea urophylla
Olea urophylla (Gilg) Gilg & Schellenb., commonly known as African olive, is a tree species native to tropical Africa. It can grow up to 15 meters tall and has a spreading, dense crown. Propagation of Olea urophylla can be done through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, grafting, and layering.
Propagation by seeds
The most common method of propagating Olea urophylla is through seeds. Seeds should be collected from ripe, fresh fruits and should be sown as soon as possible. The seeds need to be scarified or treated with hot water to break down the hard seed coat and promote germination. Seeds can be sown directly into the soil or in containers filled with a well-draining soil mix. After sowing, the containers should be kept moist and warm until the seeds germinate. Seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the field when they are established.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another method for Olea urophylla. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free branches during the dormant season. Hardwood cuttings, about 30cm long, are best for rooting. The bottom of the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone and inserted into a well-draining soil mix. Cuttings should be kept warm and moist until they develop roots and can be transplanted.
Propagation by grafting
Grafting is a method used to propagate Olea urophylla when seeds or cuttings do not produce plants with the desired characteristics. The scion, which is the top part of the plant with the desired characteristics, is cut from a mature tree and grafted onto a rootstock of a closely related Olea species. The rootstock should be healthy and disease-free. Grafting should be done during the dormant season and the graft union should be wrapped with grafting tape to hold it in place until it has healed.
Propagation by layering
Propagation by layering is another method used for Olea urophylla. This method involves bending a lower branch of a mature plant to the ground and pegging it in place. The branch should be wounded, and rooting hormone should be applied before covering it with soil. The branch will send out roots in the soil and once established, can be cut away from the mother plant and transplanted.
Disease and Pest Management for Olea urophylla
Olea urophylla (Gilg) Gilg & Schellenb. is a plant species that is relatively resistant to diseases and pests. However, it is still important to manage the diseases and pests that may affect its growth in order to maintain its health and maximize its potential yield.
Common Diseases
There are several diseases that can affect the growth of Olea urophylla. One of the most common diseases is leaf spot, which is caused by the fungus Mycosphaerella oleae. This disease typically appears as small, circular spots on the leaves, and can lead to defoliation if left untreated. To manage this disease, affected leaves should be removed and destroyed, and a fungicide may be applied to prevent further spread.
Anoher disease that may affect Olea urophylla is anthracnose, caused by the fungus Colletotrichum spp. This disease can cause dark spots on the leaves, and can also affect the fruits. To manage this disease, infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed, and a fungicide may be applied to prevent further spread.
Common Pests
Olea urophylla is relatively resistant to pests. However, there are still some pests that may affect its growth. One of the most common pests that may infest Olea urophylla is the olive fruit fly (Bactrocera oleae), which can damage the fruits and reduce the yield. To manage this pest, the use of insecticides may be necessary, along with proper sanitation practices like removing fallen fruits and pruning branches that have visible damage.
Another pest that may affect Olea urophylla is the olive psyllid (Euphyllura olivina), which can cause significant damage to the leaves and buds. This pest can be managed through the use of insecticides and proper sanitation practices, such as removing affected plant parts and controlling weeds.
Overall, proper disease and pest management practices are essential in maintaining the health and yield of Olea urophylla. Regular monitoring and timely intervention are key to avoiding the spread or development of diseases and pests in the plant.
