Origin
Ouratea elongata (Oliv.) Engl. ex Gilg is a plant species that belongs to the family Ochnaceae. This plant is native to the tropical regions of western and central Africa.
Common Names
Ouratea elongata is commonly known as African wild olive or Bongwe in various African countries. In Angola, it is known as Mpupu or Mupwepwe, while in Cameroun, it is called Tchoum or Wura. The plant also has various local names, depending on the region it grows in.
Uses
The African wild olive is widely used in traditional medicine across Africa. The leaves and bark of the plant contain various chemical compounds that are used to treat a range of ailments such as fever, malaria, diarrhea, and stomach ache. The plant is also used for its antifungal and antibacterial properties. In addition to its medicinal uses, the plant is also used for firewood, charcoal production, and artisanal activities such as weaving and carving.
General Appearance
The African wild olive is a small to medium-sized tree with an average height of 5-10 meters. The tree has a straight trunk, a roundish canopy, and a dense crown of evergreen leaves. The leaves are simple, alternate, and elliptical in shape, with a glossy dark green surface and smooth edges. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that are followed by fleshy, olive-like fruits that contain seeds. The bark of the tree is gray-brown, with deep furrows and ridges.
Light Requirements
Ouratea elongata requires full sun to partial shade to grow and flourish. As a native to tropical regions, it prefers bright and indirect sunlight. In regions with strong sunlight, planting in partial shade is recommended as full sun can cause leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can grow in a wide temperature range, from 10°C to 35°C. However, its optimal temperature for growth ranges between 20°C to 30°C. Ouratea elongata is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures and requires protection or relocation to a warmer area during the winter season.
Soil Requirements
Ouratea elongata can grow in a variety of soil types but prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil pH (pH 5.5 to 7.5). It is important to maintain moist soil conditions for optimal growth, but waterlogged or heavy clay soils should be avoided as this can cause root rot.
Cultivation methods
Ouratea elongata (Oliv.) Engl. ex Gilg is a medium-sized shrub that is common in tropical and subtropical regions. It is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of soil types, including sandy soils, loamy soils, and clay soils. The plant grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. When planting, it is important to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
The plant can grow in full sun or partial shade, but it is recommended to give it some shade during the hottest part of the day. Ouratea elongata (Oliv.) Engl. ex Gilg requires regular water, but it can tolerate some drought. It is important to not overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot.
Watering needs
Ouratea elongata (Oliv.) Engl. ex Gilg requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining. The plant can tolerate some drought, but it is best to water it regularly to ensure that it continues to grow and thrive.
Fertilization
Ouratea elongata (Oliv.) Engl. ex Gilg requires regular fertilization to ensure that it has adequate nutrients to grow and develop. A balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended. Fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, and the frequency of application will depend on the type of fertilizer used and the plant's growth rate. It is important to follow the instructions on the fertilizer label to avoid over-fertilization, which can harm the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Ouratea elongata (Oliv.) Engl. ex Gilg, but it can be done to control its shape and promote bushier growth. Pruning should be done during the dormant season as this will minimize stress on the plant. When pruning, it is important to use sharp tools and to make clean cuts to avoid damaging the plant. It is also important to avoid removing more than one-third of the plant's foliage as this can harm the plant.
Propagation of Ouratea elongata
Ouratea elongata, also known as the "monkey ear" tree, can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation through seeds
Seeds of Ouratea elongata can be collected from mature fruits. The seeds should be cleaned and soaked in water for a few hours to soften the hard outer seed coat. After soaking, the seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. Germination can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks and requires warm temperatures and consistent moisture.
Propagation through cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from Ouratea elongata in the summer months. Semi-hardwood cuttings that are 10-15 cm in length with 2-3 nodes are ideal. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, and the cuttings should be kept in a humid environment until the roots have developed, which can take 4-8 weeks.
Propagation through air layering
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Ouratea elongata. In this method, a branch of the plant is selected, and a section of bark is removed. The exposed area is then covered with rooting hormone and wrapped in moist sphagnum moss and plastic wrap. After a few weeks, roots should begin to develop in the moss, and the branch can be cut off from the parent plant and potted in a well-draining soil mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Ouratea elongata
Ouratea elongata is a tree native to Africa that is popular for its ornamental value. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that could jeopardize its health. Here, we will discuss common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggest ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease caused by Cercospora fungus that causes brown to black spots on the leaves. This disease can weaken the plant, reduce growth, and crop yield. To manage leaf spot, avoid overhead watering, remove and destroy infected leaves, and apply copper-based fungicide.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease caused by Colletotrichum fungus that causes brown to black patches on tissues, leading to defoliation. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected tissue, maintain appropriate moisture levels, and use copper-based fungicides.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by the Phytophthora fungus, which causes yellowing and wilting of leaves and ultimately death of the plant. To manage root rot, avoid overwatering, ensure proper drainage, and apply fungicides with fosetyl-al.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the plant, causing curling and stunted growth of leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or oil, spray water on the leaves to remove them physically, or release natural predators like ladybugs.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, scale-like insects that feed on the sap of the plant and cause leaf yellowing and deformity. To manage mealybugs, physically remove them, use insecticidal soap or oil, or release natural predators like ladybugs.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are larvae that feed on leaves and fruits, leading to defoliation. To manage caterpillars, remove infested parts, use Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Btk) insecticide or spinosad, and release natural predators like birds or mantis.
Regular monitoring of the plant, timely identification of symptoms, and appropriate management practices can help prevent the disease and pest problems and ensure healthy growth of Ouratea elongata.
