Overview
Parinari polyandra Benth. subsp. floribunda (Baker) R.A.Graham, is a species of flowering plants in the Chrysobalanaceae family. It is commonly known as the "Cheese Tree", "Lemon Cheesecake" or "Wild Plum". This tree is native to the rainforests of Africa, and is also found in Madagascar and other regions of the Indian Ocean Islands.
General Appearance
The Cheese Tree is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 25 meters tall. It has a straight trunk, gray to brown bark, and a dense rounded crown. The leaves are elliptical with a slightly wavy edge; they are glossy green on top and have a pale green or yellowish underside. It produces small white flowers followed by clusters of small, plum-like fruit that are yellow to orange in color and about the size of a cherry or grape. The fruit is edible and has a slightly sour taste, but it is primarily used for making jam or jelly.
Uses
The Cheese Tree has some traditional medicinal uses including the treatment of coughs, bronchitis, and respiratory infections. The fruit contains significant amounts of vitamin C and potassium, which makes it nutritionally valuable. The bark is used in traditional African medicine to treat wounds and burns. The tree has also been used for timber and fuel. In recent times, the Cheese Tree has been subject to deforestation due to an increase in demand for its wood. However, efforts are now being made to conserve the tree.
Light Conditions
The Parinari polyandra subsp. floribunda plants require full sunlight exposure to grow properly. These plants grow in the tropical regions where they receive moderate to high sunlight throughout the year. Therefore, when planting these plants, it is important to ensure that they receive ample sunlight exposure.
Temperature Requirements
The plants require a warm tropical climate to grow. The temperature must remain within the range of 20°C to 30°C. The plant has been observed to survive short-term temperature fluctuations, but prolonged exposure to temperatures outside this range may slow down or stunt plant growth. The plant is sensitive to frost and extreme cold temperatures and may not survive in areas with such weather conditions.
Soil Requirements
The Parinari polyandra subsp. floribunda plants grow well in well-drained soils rich in organic matter. The pH range of the soil should be between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant can also grow in soils with poor fertility, but it is important to supplement the soil with fertilizers containing nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. The plant has moderate water requirements and can tolerate dry periods, although prolonged drought may be detrimental to growth.
Cultivation
Parinari polyandra Benth. subsp. floribunda (Baker) R.A.Graham grows well in loamy soils, with good drainage capacity. The ideal planting time is late winter to early spring, when the temperature is not less than 15 ?C. The plant needs partial to full sun exposure to grow properly.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering in the initial growth stages. For the first two years, water the young plants deeply for about two to three times a week. However, mature plants are relatively drought-tolerant, requiring watering about once a week.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is necessary for the proper growth of the plant. For young seedlings, apply a balanced fertilizer once every two months. After two years, apply organic fertilizer once every three months when the plant is in the growth phase. Nitrogen-rich fertilizer should be avoided because it promotes vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to encourage the plant to grow in a specific direction and help it maintain shape. The best time to prune is in late winter before the growing season. Remove dead or diseased wood and cut off branches that rub against each other. The height of the plant can be maintained by pruning the leading shoot.
Propagation of Parinari polyandra Benth. subsp. floribunda (Baker) R.A.Graham
Parinari polyandra Benth. subsp. floribunda (Baker) R.A.Graham, commonly known as the African walnut, has a high potential for agroforestry and reforestation programs due to its timber and non-timber forest products. It is essential to propagate this plant to increase its population and ensure its sustainability. The following are the propagation methods:
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Parinari polyandra. The seeds are collected from mature and healthy trees during the fruiting season. The fleshy part of the fruit is removed to obtain the seeds, which are then washed and air-dried to reduce their moisture content. The seeds are treated with a fungicide to protect them from diseases. They are then planted in a seedbed or directly in the field at a depth of 2-3 cm. The seedlings emerge within 2-3 weeks and are ready for transplanting after 4-6 months.
Cuttings propagation
Parinari polyandra can also be propagated through cuttings. Stem cuttings of 20-25 cm length and 1 cm diameter are collected from mature and healthy trees during the dormant season. The bottom end of the cutting is treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained rooting medium. The cuttings are kept under shade and misted regularly to maintain moisture levels. Rooting occurs within 6-8 weeks, and the rooted cuttings can be transplanted in the field during the rainy season.
Air layering propagation
Air layering is a propagation method suitable for Parinari polyandra, especially for larger trees. A branch of the tree is selected and a ring of bark of 2-3 cm width is removed from the middle portion. The exposed wood is covered with rooting hormone and wrapped with moist sphagnum moss and plastic to maintain humidity levels. Roots develop within 4-6 weeks, and the rooted branch is cut and planted in the field.
Overall, the propagation of Parinari polyandra is critical for its conservation and sustainable use. By using the appropriate propagation method, the plant's population can be increased, and its benefits to humans and wildlife can be enhanced.
Disease Management for Parinari polyandra Benth. subsp. floribunda
Parinari polyandra Benth. subsp. floribunda (Baker) R.A.Graham is affected by various diseases that cause damage to the plant. Here are some of the common diseases that can affect the plant and strategies for managing them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes wilting and death of the affected plant parts. To manage the disease, ensure that the soil is well-drained, practice good sanitation, and use fungicides to control the disease.
Root rot
Root rot is caused by soil-borne fungi that attack the roots of the plant. To manage root rot, maintain proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Additionally, use fungicides to control the disease.
Leaf spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes spots on the plant's leaves, leading to the development of yellow or brown spots and defoliation. To manage the disease, practice good sanitation, remove infected plant parts, and use fungicides.
Pest Management for Parinari polyandra Benth. subsp. floribunda
Several pests can also infest Parinari polyandra Benth. subsp. floribunda (Baker) R.A.Graham, causing damage to the plant. Here are some of the common pests that can affect the plant and ways of managing them:
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied, insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To control the pest, use insecticidal soap and neem oil. Additionally, clean the plant's foliage regularly to prevent infestations.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies. They chew leaves and cause defoliation. To control the pest, handpick the larvae, use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) or spinosad insecticides.
Mites
Mites are spider-like pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing leaf discoloration and deformation. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control the pest. Avoid using broad-spectrum insecticides that kill beneficial insects.
By implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage diseases and pests affecting Parinari polyandra Benth. subsp. floribunda (Baker) R.A.Graham, ensuring healthy plant growth.
