Origin
Polyalthia aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév. is a species of plant in the family Annonaceae. It is native to Madagascar, a large island located off the southeast coast of Africa known for its unique biodiversity.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as malanaky in Malagasy, the language spoken in Madagascar. It is also known as Aubreville's false ashoka, named after the French botanist André Aubréville who first described the species in 1957.
Uses
The bark of Polyalthia aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév. has been used traditionally by the Malagasy people to treat a variety of ailments, including bronchitis and intestinal problems. In modern medicine, extracts from the plant have been shown to have potential antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, and are being studied for their potential use in treating infectious diseases and cancer.
General Appearance
Polyalthia aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév. is a small to medium sized tree, growing up to 20 meters tall. It has smooth, gray bark and glossy leaves that are oval-shaped and up to 20 centimeters long. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that develop into woody, brown fruits about the size of a golf ball.
Light Requirements
Polyalthia aubrevillei thrives in full or partial sunlight exposure. It requires at least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily to initiate photosynthesis, and up to 6 hours for optimal growth. Insufficient amounts of sunlight can result in stunted growth and poor overall health.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in warm temperature conditions. The ideal temperature range for Polyalthia aubrevillei is between 22°C to 28°C during the day, and 16°C to 22°C during the night. Temperatures outside this range may affect growth rate and overall health. Extreme cold temperatures, below 10°C, can cause leaf drop or damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Polyalthia aubrevillei prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 5.5 and 7.5). It grows best in nutrient-rich soils, such as those that contain organic matter. The plant requires regular watering, and soil moisture should be maintained at all times. Overwatering may lead to root rot and fungal disease, while underwatering may cause wilting.
Cultivation methods for Polyalthia aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév.
Polyalthia aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév. plants grow well in full sun as well as partial shade. The plant prefers fertile, moist, well-drained soils that are slightly acidic. The plant thrives in a warm climate that has an average temperature of around 80°F and a minimum temperature of 60°F.
Watering needs for Polyalthia aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév.
Proper watering of the Polyalthia aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév. plant is essential for its growth and development. This plant prefers regular waterings but does not tolerate standing water. It is best to water the plant after the topsoil has dried out to a depth of 1 inch. Water the plant thoroughly and allow excess water to drain from the bottom of the pot.
Fertilization of Polyalthia aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév.
Polyalthia aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév. plants require regular fertilization for healthy growth. Fertilize young plants every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Mature plants can be fertilized once every month with a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the amount and frequency of fertilizer application.
Pruning of Polyalthia aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév.
Pruning of Polyalthia aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév. plants is important to promote healthy growth and maintain their desired shape. Prune the plants during their dormant period or immediately after flowering. Prune any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Cut back the tips of the branches to promote branching. Pinch back any unwanted growth to maintain the desired shape of the plant.
Propagation of Polyalthia Aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév.
Polyalthia Aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév. can be propagated through two primary methods: seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method for Polyalthia Aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév. Seeds should be collected when the fruit ripens, which is usually in late summer or early fall. The fleshy arils should be removed from the seeds, and then the seeds should be dried and stored in cool, dry conditions until the next spring.
In the spring, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix and covered with a thin layer of soil. They should be kept moist and warm until they germinate, which can take anywhere from one to three months. Once germinated, the seedlings should be kept in bright, indirect light and gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before they are transplanted into their permanent growing location.
Vegetative Propagation
Polyalthia Aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév. can also be propagated through vegetative means, such as cuttings or layering. Semi-hardwood cuttings should be taken from healthy, mature plants in the summer or fall. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. They should be kept in a warm, humid environment until they root, which can take several weeks. Once rooted, they can be transplanted into their permanent growing location.
Layering involves bending a low-hanging branch down to the ground and burying part of it in soil, leaving the tip exposed. The branch should be wounded where it will come into contact with the soil to encourage rooting. Once roots have developed, the branch can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted into its permanent growing location.
Disease and Pest Management for Polyalthia Aubrevillei Ghesq. Ex Aubrév.
Polyalthia aubrevillei Ghesq. ex Aubrév., commonly known as African Almond, is an evergreen tree known for its aesthetic and medicinal values. Like any other plant, African almond is susceptible to pests and diseases that cause damage to the plant, and in some instances, may lead to its death. Proper disease and pest management are crucial. The following are common diseases and pests that affect the African Almond and how to manage them:
Common Diseases:
Leaf Spot: This is a common disease that affects African almond plants. It is characterized by black or brown spots that appear on the leaves. The infected leaves eventually fall off, leading to defoliation. Fungicides can be used to manage this disease. Proper sanitation practices such as removing infected leaves and proper disposal can also go a long way in preventing its spread.
Powdery Mildew: This disease is caused by a fungus that appears on the leaves and stems of the African almond. It is identifiable by a white powder-like substance that appears on the leaves. To manage this, use neem oil or sulfur-based fungicides. Moreover, avoid overhead watering as this encourages fungus growth.
Black Mildew: This disease is caused by a plant pathogen that affects the leaves, stems, and twigs of the African almond. It is characterized by a black soot-like substance that forms on the leaves. Physically removing the affected parts can control its spread. Regular pruning to improve airflow and exposure to sunlight can also help reduce the risk of infestation.
Common Pests:
Spider Mites: These are pests that affect the African almond plant by feeding on its leaves. Infestation is characterized by yellow marks on the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to manage and prevent infestation. Alternatively, introducing a naturally occurring predator, such as ladybugs or spider mite predators, can also prove helpful.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are parasites that feed on the sap from the African almond plant. They appear as small bumps on the leaf or stem surfaces. Management involves removing the infected parts of the plant before the insects mature. Introducing predator insects like ladybugs and lacewings can help control their population.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common pests that damage the African almond plant by feeding on its leaves and stems. They appear as white cotton-like masses on the plant. Management involves removing the infected parts and using insecticidal soaps to spray the affected plant.
In conclusion, African almond, like any other plant, is susceptible to pests and diseases. Proper management, including good sanitation, use of appropriate fungicides and insecticides, and early detection, is critical in preventing significant damage to the plant.
