Plant Description
Sclerocarya caffra Sond. var. oblongifoliolata Engl. is a large deciduous tree belonging to the Anacardiaceae family. It can grow up to 20 meters tall and its bark is rough with a brown-grey color. The leaves of this plant are compound, with oblong leaflets that are upwardly curved at the edges, giving it a unique appearance.
Origin and Common Names
This plant is native to southern Africa, specifically in countries such as South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. It is commonly known by several names depending on the region, with "marula" being a popular one. Other common names include "elephant tree," "jelly plum," "Namibian marula," and "Cape plum."
Uses
Sclerocarya caffra Sond. var. oblongifoliolata Engl. has several uses, particularly in traditional medicine where it is believed to have antibacterial properties that can treat various ailments. The tree's bark, roots, and fruits are used to create different remedies. Additionally, the tree's fruit is edible and is popularly used to produce alcoholic drinks, such as beer and liquor. The marula fruit is also used to produce jams, jellies, and oils for cosmetic purposes. With regards to wildlife, the marula fruit is also a favored food source for African elephants, hence the tree's nickname "elephant tree."
Light Requirements
Sclerocarya caffra Sond. var. oblongifoliolata Engl. requires a lot of sunlight to grow as it is a heliophilic species. It is necessary to keep the plant in an area where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. Insufficient light may lead to stunted growth and weakened branches.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but the preferred range is between 20°C to 30°C. Sclerocarya caffra Sond. var. oblongifoliolata Engl. is a resilient plant that can adapt to different climatic conditions, but it is essential to protect it from frost and extreme cold temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. It requires soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients, and it is better to avoid poorly aerated soil, which can cause root rot and affect the healthy growth of the plant. It is advisable to add fertilizers that contain nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to the soil to provide adequate nutrients for the growth of the plant.
Cultivation methods:
The Sclerocarya caffra Sond. var. oblongifoliolata Engl., commonly known as the Marula tree, grows natively in the southern parts of Africa. The cultivation of this plant requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The tree can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It would be best to plant this tree in an open area with plenty of sunlight. Planting in a sheltered area may cause the tree to become lanky with weak limbs.
In areas with frosty winters, it would be best to plant the Marula tree in a warm area or under a shade cloth. The planting hole should be twice the width of the tree's root system. The tree should be planted at the same depth as the container in which it was grown. Once the tree has been planted, it should be staked for a year or two until it becomes stable enough to withstand windy weather.
Watering needs:
The Marula tree requires regular watering, especially during the establishment period. For the first two years, the tree should receive at least 20 liters of water per week. Mature trees require infrequent but deep watering. Watering frequency should be reduced during the dry season to minimize waterlogging and root rot. The tree's water requirements depend on the soil type, temperature, and humidity level in its environment. The tree should be watered during the early morning or late afternoon to minimize water loss through evaporation.
Fertilization:
The tree requires fertilization twice a year, during spring and summer. A balanced NPK fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 3:2:1 should be used. Fertilizer should be applied at the tree's dripline, and the application rate should be based on the tree's age and size. Too much fertilizer can cause leaf burn, stunted growth, and poor fruit quality.
Pruning:
Pruning is essential, especially in the early years of the tree's growth. Pruning should be done during late winter or early spring before the tree produces new growth. The tree requires minimal pruning, and only damaged, diseased, or dead wood should be removed. Pruning helps to shape the tree, promote air circulation, and improve fruit yield.
Propagation Methods for Sclerocarya caffra Sond. var. oblongifoliolata Engl.
Sclerocarya caffra Sond. var. oblongifoliolata Engl., commonly known as the Marula tree, can be propagated through various methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
The Marula tree produces edible fruit, and its seeds can be collected and used for propagation. To propagate from seeds, the seeds must be cleaned thoroughly, and then soaked in water overnight to soften the hard seed coat. After soaking, the seeds should be planted in well-draining soil and covered with a light layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist, and the seedlings should emerge in 2-3 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation can be done through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem, and cut a 10-15 cm length with a sharp knife. Remove any leaves from the bottom of the cutting and dip the end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in well-draining soil and keep it moist. The cutting should root in 4-6 weeks.
Grafting can also be used for vegetative propagation. A scion from a mature Marula tree is grafted onto a seedling rootstock. The scion should be chosen from a healthy tree and cut to include at least one bud and one leaf. The graft union should be wrapped with tape and kept moist until the graft takes hold. Grafted trees can be planted in the field after one year.
Disease and Pest Management for Sclerocarya caffra Sond. var. oblongifoliolata Engl.
Sclerocarya caffra Sond. var. oblongifoliolata Engl., commonly known as a Marula tree, is a valuable plant that has a wide range of applications. It is preferred due to its nutritional and medicinal properties. However, the plant is susceptible to various pest and disease attacks, which may affect its productivity. Effective management of these threats is essential for healthy and high yield production.
Common Diseases affecting Sclerocarya caffra Sond. var. oblongifoliolata Engl.
The most common diseases that infect the Marula tree include;
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes dark sunken lesions on leaves, flowers, and fruits. It can lead to early defoliation and poor fruit formation.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by various soil-borne fungi that affect the roots. Affected trees will exhibit slow growth, wilting, and yellowing of leaves. In severe cases, the tree may die.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew appears as white powdery spots on leaves and can reduce the plant's vigor and productivity.
Pest Management for Sclerocarya caffra Sond. var. oblongifoliolata Engl.
Marula trees are susceptible to pest damage which can impact their growth and yield. Some common pests that affect the plant include;
- Fruit Flies: Fruit flies are a significant threat to the Marula tree. They lay their eggs on the young fruits, causing maggots to develop within the fruit's flesh.
- Termites: Termites damage the tree by consuming the inner tissues of the stem, which can lead to wilting and death.
- Aphids: Aphids suck sap from the leaves and can cause them to wilt and eventually fall off. They also excrete honeydew that attracts sooty molds and reduces photosynthesis.
Ways to manage diseases and pests affecting the plant
Some effective ways to manage pests and diseases include;
- Pruning and Removal of diseased or Infected parts: Remove all diseased or infected parts of the plant and destroy them to prevent the spread of diseases.
- Sanitation: Keep the area around the plant clean and free from debris to reduce the pests' chances of finding hiding places.
- Biological Control: Use natural predators like ladybirds to control pests instead of chemical pesticides.
- Chemical Control: If natural control methods are ineffective, use chemical pesticides following the recommended instructions to avoid chemical poisoning and residue on the fruits.
Proper pest and disease management practices are vital to ensure the healthy growth and yield of Sclerocarya caffra Sond. var. oblongifoliolata Engl.
