Origin
Rothmannia lateriflora (K.Schum.) Keay, commonly known as the green fruit tree, is a tropical tree native to West and Central Africa. It can be found in countries such as Benin, Cameroon, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, and Togo.
Common Names
Rothmannia lateriflora is commonly referred to as the green fruit tree due to the green color of its fruit. It is also known by other names like African gardenia, wild gardenia, and wild coffee.
Uses
The green fruit tree has a variety of uses in traditional medicine. The bark and leaves are used to treat ailments such as fever, headache, and stomachache. The bark is also used as an astringent, and the fruit is used to treat diarrhea and dysentery. In addition to its medicinal uses, the fruit is also used to make a tangy, refreshing drink.
General Appearance
Rothmannia lateriflora is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall. Its bark is grayish-brown, and its branches are covered in fine hairs. The leaves are leathery, ovate, and dark green in color, with a glossy surface. The tree produces small, fragrant flowers that are white or cream-colored and have long protruding stamens. The fruit is green when young, maturing to a yellow or orange color as it ripens. The fruit is about 3-4 cm in diameter, and contains a central seed.
Light requirements
Rothmannia lateriflora requires partial to full sunlight to thrive. It can tolerate some shade, but extended periods of low light can stunt its growth and affect flowering. Therefore, it's best to plant it in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature requirements
The plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions, so it requires warm temperatures to grow. Ideally, the temperature should range between 18 to 30 degrees Celsius to promote optimal growth and flowering. Temperatures below 14 degrees Celsius can damage the plant.
Soil requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that's rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH, but slightly acidic to neutral soils are ideal. To ensure proper drainage, it's recommended to plant the Rothmannia lateriflora in raised beds or mounds.
Additionally, the plant is sensitive to waterlogging, so it's important to avoid planting it in areas prone to flooding. It's also recommended to mulch around the plant to help regulate soil moisture and suppress weed growth.
Cultivation
Rothmannia lateriflora is a slow-growing plant that requires well-drained soil and a shaded area to thrive. It is best to plant the seeds or saplings in fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 20-25°C.
Watering Needs
Watering is an essential aspect of caring for Rothmannia lateriflora. The plant requires regular watering during the growing season, especially during the hot and dry months. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant, as it can cause the roots to rot. Instead, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Rothmannia lateriflora requires regular fertilization to maintain its health and promote growth. Organic fertilizers such as compost, manure, or bone meal are excellent options. These fertilizers can be applied during the growing season to ensure the plant receives the necessary nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning is an important aspect of caring for Rothmannia lateriflora. It is essential to remove dead or diseased branches regularly. Additionally, pruning the plant can help control its size and shape. It is best to prune the plant after the flowering season to encourage new growth and improve the plant's overall health.
Propagation of Rothmannia lateriflora
Rothmannia lateriflora (K.Schum.) Keay is commonly propagated through seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds are the easiest and most common way to propagate Rothmannia lateriflora. The seeds of the plant are collected when the fruits turn yellow and open, which generally happens from December to January. The seeds are rinsed and aired for a day before being sown in a well-draining, weed-free soil mixture. A shaded nursery area is preferred, and the seedlings should be watered regularly. The seeds will generally germinate within four weeks.
Propagation through Cuttings
Rothmannia lateriflora can also be propagated through cuttings taken from semi-hardwood in the rainy season. The cuttings should be around 15-20 cm long and should be treated with rooting hormone. The cuttings are then planted in a well-draining medium and kept moist and shaded. The cuttings will generally root within six to eight weeks, and after the roots have developed, they can be transferred to individual bags.
Propagation through Grafting
Grafting is another alternative for propagating Rothmannia lateriflora. Grafting the plant onto another rootstock can help improve its performance, particularly in terms of disease, nutrient availability, and environmental stress tolerance. The best time for grafting is in the rainy season, and the scion should be taken from a healthy and vigorous plant.
Disease Management
Rothmannia lateriflora is prone to different diseases, ranging from fungal to bacterial infections. Here are the common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that creates brown spots on the leaves. It occurs when the plant is exposed to moisture for an extended period. To manage leaf spot, trim infected leaves and dispose of them correctly. Prune the plant to improve air circulation.
- Root Rot: This is a fungal infection that decomposes the plant's roots, leading to wilted and discolored leaves. Root rot occurs due to poor drainage, overwatering, or contaminated soil. To manage it, remove infected parts of the plant and avoid overwatering.
- Bacterial Wilt: This is a bacterial infection that attacks the plant's vascular system, preventing water and nutrients from moving through the tissues. Bacterial wilt symptoms include wilting and stunted growth. To manage it, prune infected parts of the plant and ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Pest Management
Rothmannia lateriflora can also attract insect pests that can damage the plant. Here are a few pests to look out for:
- Mealybugs: These pests appear like white cottony masses on leaves and stems, sucking sap from the plants. To manage mealybugs, wipe off the insects with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or insecticide soap.
- Whitefly: These are small insects that fly around when disturbed and suck sap from leaves. To manage whiteflies, spray the plant with neem oil, insecticidal soap, or a solution of water and dish soap.
- Scale insects: Like mealybugs, scale insects also suck sap from the plant, forming hard, shell-like bumps on the stem. To manage scale insects, scrub the plant with a soft brush and alcohol to remove the shells or spray with insecticidal soap.
In conclusion, regular monitoring and proper sanitation practices are the most effective ways to manage pest and disease problems in Rothmannia lateriflora. Take immediate action when you notice any symptoms of pests or diseases to prevent further damage.
