Introduction
Rytigynia lichenoxenos (K.Schum.) Robyns subsp. glabrituba Verdc. commonly known as African walnut or Arbre à noix d’Afrique is a tree that belongs to the Meliaceae family.
Origin
The African walnut tree is native to tropical Africa and is found in countries like Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Côte d'Ivoire, Nigeria, Cameroon, Central African Republic, and Congo.
Common Names
The African walnut tree is commonly known by a variety of different names including Camwood, Mogano and Arbre à noix d’Afrique.
Appearance
The African walnut is a tall and erect tree that grows up to 40m in height. The crown of the tree is wide and is composed of dense foliage that is dark green in color. The bark of the African walnut tree is gray-brown and is rough in texture. The leaves are pinnate and are made up of 6 to 9 pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are dark green and are spear-shaped.
Uses
The African walnut tree has a variety of uses. The wood of the tree is sturdy and is used in the construction of buildings, furniture, and musical instruments. The seeds of the tree are also edible and are used in cooking as a substitute for traditional walnuts. The tree is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments including malaria, fever, and respiratory illnesses.
Light requirements
Rytigynia lichenoxenos (K.Schum.) Robyns subsp. glabrituba Verdc. requires a lot of sunlight to grow properly. It is recommended to place this plant in a location where it can receive direct sunlight for at least 6 hours each day.
Temperature requirements
This plant prefers a warm and humid environment. It can grow well in temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below 15 degrees Celsius can cause the plant to wilt and eventually die.
Soil requirements
Rytigynia lichenoxenos (K.Schum.) Robyns subsp. glabrituba Verdc. thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It requires a pH range of 5 to 6.5. It is recommended to use a mix of peat moss and compost to enhance the growth of this plant.
Cultivation methods for Rytigynia lichenoxenos (K.Schum.) Robyns subsp. glabrituba Verdc.
Rytigynia lichenoxenos (K.Schum.) Robyns subsp. glabrituba Verdc., commonly known as the African cherry, is a plant species that can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors. It is best suited for tropical and subtropical regions, where the temperature is between 60 to 85°F (15 to 29°C).
When cultivating the plant indoors, provide it ample sunlight by placing it in a bright and airy location. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil, with a pH between 5.5 to 6.5. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and has a good mix of sand, peat moss, and perlite.
Watering needs for Rytigynia lichenoxenos (K.Schum.) Robyns subsp. glabrituba Verdc.
Rytigynia lichenoxenos requires moderate watering. When planting in pots, ensure that they have a draining hole, as it helps to prevent overwatering. Water the plant when the topsoil feels slightly dry to the touch, making sure not to leave the plant in standing water as it can cause root rot.
During the winter months, reduce the watering frequency, as the plant does not require as much water as it does in the warmer months. It is essential to monitor the soil's moisture levels to avoid over or underwatering the plant, which can lead to the yellowing of leaves.
Fertilization for Rytigynia lichenoxenos (K.Schum.) Robyns subsp. glabrituba Verdc.
The African cherry plant should be fertilized during the growing season, which is typically between late winter and early fall. Fertilize the plant with an all-purpose liquid fertilizer, diluted to half the strength recommended on the label. Apply the fertilizer every two weeks to ensure optimal growth.
Care should be taken when applying fertilizer as it is easy to overfeed the plant. Over-fertilization can lead to burning of the leaves and even death of the plant. In addition, avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months, as its growth slows down and may cause fertilizer buildup in the soil.
Pruning Rytigynia lichenoxenos (K.Schum.) Robyns subsp. glabrituba Verdc.
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and size of the African cherry plant. Prune the plant regularly by pinching off dead leaves and branches. It helps to encourage new growth and give the plant a fuller appearance.
When pruning, use clean and sharp cutting tools to prevent the transmission of plant diseases. Cut the branches just above the leaf node to prevent leaving stubs that can harbor diseases. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant at a time, as it leads to stunted plant growth.
Propagation of Rytigynia lichenoxenos subsp. glabrituba
Rytigynia lichenoxenos subsp. glabrituba can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. However, propagation through seeds is the most recommended method as it ensures genetic diversity and adaptability.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds of Rytigynia lichenoxenos subsp. glabrituba can be sown in a well-draining soil medium. The soil medium should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The seeds will take approximately 2-4 weeks to germinate. Once the seedlings have developed two to three leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden bed.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Rytigynia lichenoxenos subsp. glabrituba can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from a healthy parent plant during the active growth period, which is usually in the spring. Cuttings should be 5-8cm in length and should have a few leaves attached to them.
The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil medium and kept moist. It is recommended to use a rooting hormone to enhance root development. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment until the roots have developed. Once the roots have developed, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the garden bed.
Disease Management
There are various diseases that can affect Rytigynia lichenoxenos subsp. glabrituba Verdc., including:
- Leaf Spot Diseases: Leaf spot diseases are common in Rytigynia lichenoxenos subsp. glabrituba Verdc. These diseases usually manifest as brown or black spots on the leaves. The best way to manage leaf spot diseases is to prune and dispose of the affected leaves immediately they are observed and avoid getting water on the leaves during watering.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is also a common disease that can affect Rytigynia lichenoxenos subsp. glabrituba Verdc. The disease manifests as white powdery patches on leaves, flowers, and stems. To manage powdery mildew, always ensure proper air circulation by spacing plants appropriately and applying the appropriate fungicides.
- Root Rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering, poor drainage, and fungal infections, which lead to the roots rotting, turning black or brown. To manage this disease, ensure good drainage, do not overwater the plant, and remove and destroy infected plants as soon as they are observed.
Pest Management
Several pests can infest Rytigynia lichenoxenos subsp. glabrituba Verdc., including:
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs are common sap-sucking pests that leave white, cottony masses on plants. To manage mealybugs, control ants as they help in spreading them, remove and destroy infested plants, and apply the appropriate insecticides.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that also suck sap from plants, causing them to wilt and dry out. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soaps or miticides, keep the plant well-watered and increase humidity around the plant.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, hard-shelled pests that suck sap from the plant, weakening it. To manage scale insects, remove and destroy infested plants, prune affected branches, and spray the appropriate insecticides or horticultural oil.
