Origin
Randia acarophyta De Wild., also known as the African cherry or mkilifi cherry, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Rubiaceae family with origins in East Africa. It is commonly found in Kenya, Tanzania, and Mozambique.
Common Names
Aside from being called the African cherry or mkilifi cherry, Randia acarophyta De Wild. is also known by other common names such as kitengela, muhoro, and mkombero.
Uses
Randia acarophyta De Wild. has a variety of uses in traditional medicine. Its fruit is believed to have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and is used in cough syrups and to treat skin conditions. The bark of the plant is used as an analgesic to relieve pain and discomfort, and the leaves are made into tea to treat stomach ailments.
The wood of the plant is also used in construction, while the fruits are used for making juice and jams.
General Appearance
Randia acarophyta De Wild. is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 60 cm. Its leaves are oval-shaped, with a length of up to 10 cm and a width of up to 4 cm. The tree produces small, black, berry-like fruits that contain several seeds encased in a thin layer of pulp. The bark of the tree is grey and rough with visible scars and fissures.
The African cherry is a hardy plant that can survive in dry conditions and is often found in savannas and coastal areas.
Light Requirements
Randia acarophyta De Wild. prefers full sunlight to partial shade to facilitate vigorous growth and flowering. The plant needs about 6-8 hours of direct sunlight for healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Randia acarophyta De Wild. is between 20°C and 30°C. The plant can tolerate a minimum temperature of 5°C and a maximum of 40°C, respectively. The optimum growth is observed between 25°C and 30°C.
Soil Requirements
Randia acarophyta De Wild. can grow in a wide range of soils, but it prefers well-drained, fertile loam soils rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.0 to 7.5. The plant cannot thrive in waterlogged or compacted soils, as it may result in root rots and stunting of growth.
Cultivation Methods
Randia acarophyta De Wild. is a beautiful, slow-growing plant that requires a specific environment to thrive. The plant can be cultivated in a wide range of soils, as long as the soil is fertile, well-drained, and slightly acidic to neutral. This plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. However, it is essential to note that the success of propagating from seeds is low, and cuttings offer a more reliable means of propagation. Propagation should be done during the growing season, which is from early spring to late summer.Watering Needs
Randia acarophyta De Wild. requires moist soil to grow optimally. During the growing season, the plant should be kept consistently moist but never waterlogged. The plant should be watered deeply at least once a week, and watering should be adjusted based on the weather conditions and soil moisture. When the plant goes dormant in winter, it should be watered less often, but soil moisture should not be allowed to dry out completely.Fertilization
Proper fertilization is essential for the healthy growth of Randia acarophyta De Wild. The plant needs an evenly balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, as well as trace minerals. Fertilizer application should be done during the growing season, and the frequency should be adjusted based on the plant's growth rate. However, too much fertilizer should be avoided as it can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.Pruning
Randia acarophyta De Wild. does not require regular pruning. However, it's important to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches as soon as possible to prevent the spread of infection. Pruning should be done during the plant's dormant season, mainly in winter, and it should be avoided during the growing season. Pruning should be carried out using sharp, clean tools, and cuts should be made just above the node to promote healthy plant growth.Propagation of Randia acarophyta De Wild.
Randia acarophyta De Wild. can be propagated either by seed or vegetative methods such as cuttings. Each method has its advantages and drawbacks, and it is best to choose the one that suits you the most based on your preferences and the available resources.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the most common method for Randia acarophyta De Wild. The plant produces fruit that looks much like a small tomato, which turns yellowish when ripe. Collect the fruit when it is fully developed but not overripe, as overripe fruit may not yield viable seeds. The fruit should be washed in water, then dried with a towel. Cut the fruit in half and extract the seeds. The seeds must be cleaned and disinfected before planting. Sow the seeds in a sterile soil mixture or germination tray and cover them with a thin layer of sand or vermiculite. Place the tray in a warm, bright location, and keep the soil moist. Germination takes place anywhere from 15 to 90 days.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a faster and easier method than propagation by seed. Unlike seed propagation, cuttings can be taken at any time of the year, but it may be best to do so in the spring. Take a 10 to 15 cm long cutting from the parent plant, preferably a semi-ripe or hardwood cutting. Remove all the lower leaves, leaving only two or three leaves at the top. Dip the cuttings' base in rooting hormone powder and place them in a hole with moist, well-drained soil. Cover the cuttings with plastic, keeping the soil moist. After a few weeks, new growth indicates that it has rooted.
Overall, Randia acarophyta De Wild. can be propagated from either seed or cuttings, so you have the option to choose the method that is best for your needs. With proper attention and care, the plant can be propagated successfully.
Disease and Pest Management for Randia acarophyta De Wild.
Randia acarophyta De Wild., commonly known as the African cherry, is a small tree that is native to central and western Africa. It is an important economic plant because of its medicinal and edible properties. The tree has a tough, shiny, and smooth bark surface which makes it resistant to insect and disease attacks. However, the plant is still susceptible to some diseases and pests that can affect its growth and productivity.
Common Diseases
The most common disease of Randia acarophyta is leaf spot caused by a fungus called Cercospora randiae. The symptoms of this disease include small reddish-brown spots that turn black as they age. Over time, the leaves may die, and the tree may lose its vigor. Another fungal disease that affects the tree is powdery mildew caused by Phyllactinia guttata. This disease appears as a powdery white substance on leaf surfaces and can result in leaf distortion and stunted growth.
Disease Management
The best way to prevent fungal diseases in Randia acarophyta is by proper tree care and maintenance. Keep the growing area clean and remove any fallen leaves or debris that may harbor fungal spores. Ensure that the tree is well-watered and fertilized to maintain its vigor. In case of an infection, apply a copper-based fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Common Pests
The most common pests that attack Randia acarophyta are mites and scale insects. The eriophyid mites feed on leaf tissues and cause distortion and curling of leaves. The scale insects, on the other hand, suck sap from the tree, leaving it weak and prone to disease.
Pest Management
To control mites on Randia acarophyta, spray the tree with a miticide according to the manufacturer's instructions. Scale insects can be managed by physically removing them from the tree or using an insecticide that targets scale insects.
In conclusion, disease and pest management is crucial to maintain healthy and productive Randia acarophyta trees. Proper tree care and maintenance, coupled with timely application of pesticides as needed, can help prevent and control disease and pest infestations effectively.
