Overview
Strychnos edulis Schweinf. is a plant belonging to the family Loganiaceae and genus Strychnos. It is a fruit-bearing tree that is native to tropical Africa, mostly found in the savannah and rainforest regions of central and western Africa.
Common Names
The plant is popularly known by different common names, including "Omutabe," "Azom," "Gome," and "Muthovu" in the East African region, particularly in Tanzania and Kenya. In Cameroon, it is known as "Koute," while in the Congo, it is known as "Omubana."
Appearance
The Strychnos edulis Schweinf. grows up to about 20 meters tall and has a dense, rounded canopy. The tree's bark is dark-grey or brown, which is thick and heavily furrowed. The leaves are simple and alternate with a shiny dark green color and oval shape. The plant bears small, fragrant, and white flowers with a trumpet-shaped corolla that are pollinated by insects. The fruit is usually a round berry with a thin, bright orange to red skin and a fleshy pulp inside that is sweet to sour. The ripe fruit usually contains 2-4 seeds that are white, hard, and flattened.
Uses
The fruit of Strychnos edulis Schweinf. is edible and is commonly consumed fresh or used to make a local beverage, juice, or jam. Apart from the fruit, the bark and seeds of the plant are used for various purposes. The bark is used to make baskets, ropes, and fiber for weaving, while the seeds are used for medicinal purposes. The seeds contain the toxic alkaloid strychnine, which is used in small doses to stimulate the central nervous system, treat digestive tract problems, and fight off fatigue. However, the high toxicity of strychnine limits its use in medicine.
Light Requirements
Strychnos edulis Schweinf. plants require bright, direct sunlight to thrive. They do well in full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade. When grown indoor, place them near a south or west-facing window to get the best light exposure.
Temperature Requirements
These plants grow well in temperatures that range from 60-85 degrees Fahrenheit. They prefer warm temperatures but can tolerate cooler temperatures, as well. It is essential to maintain moderate humidity levels to keep Stryhcnos edulis Schweinf. plants healthy.
Soil Requirements
Strychnos edulis Schweinf. plants prefer well-draining soil that can retain moisture. The ideal pH range is 5.5-6.5, which is slightly acidic. It is crucial to ensure the soil's quality because these plants are susceptible to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Strychnos edulis Schweinf., commonly known as the African orange, can be cultivated through two main methods: seeds or vegetative propagation using suckers or stem cuttings.
If using seeds, it is essential to soak them in warm water for 24 hours before planting in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist, and germination should happen within two to four weeks.
If using suckers or stem cuttings, ensure the parent plant is healthy and disease-free. Cuttings should be taken from the base of the plant and dipped in rooting hormone before planting in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and warm to encourage root development.
Watering Needs
The African orange requires regular watering, especially during its growing season. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
During the dry season, it is essential to water the plant more frequently, at least twice a week. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the soil has proper drainage to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
The African orange plant is a heavy feeder and requires regular fertilization to thrive. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer that has equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
During the fruiting season, switch to a fertilizer with higher potassium content to encourage fruit development. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid over-fertilization.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for the African orange plant as it helps to maintain its shape and promote growth. Prune the plant during the dormant season, and remove any dead, diseased or damaged branches.
The plant can also be pruned to control its size, bearing in mind that it can grow up to 15 meters tall. Always use clean and sharp tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation Methods for Strychnos edulis Schweinf.
Strychnos edulis Schweinf. is a dioecious tree species that is native to tropical Africa. This plant can be propagated using seeds, stem cuttings, and suckers.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the easiest method of propagating Strychnos edulis Schweinf. Seeds are collected in fall or early winter. The seeds are then sown in a well-draining potting mix in a warm and moist environment. Germination occurs within 2-3 weeks. Seedlings are transplanted into individual containers when they have developed two or three leaves. The seedlings are then grown in a well-lit environment until they are ready for transplanting into their permanent position.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is another method of propagating Strychnos edulis Schweinf. Stem cuttings are collected from well-developed branches during the rainy season. The cuttings should be taken from the current year's growth and should have a minimum of three nodes. The cuttings are then planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm and moist environment. Rooting occurs within 6-8 weeks, and the plant can be transplanted into its permanent position.
Propagation by Suckers
Propagation by suckers is a reliable method of propagating Strychnos edulis Schweinf. Suckers are small shoots that develop from the base of the tree. The suckers can be separated from the parent tree using a sharp knife during the rainy season. The suckers are then planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm and moist environment. The plant can be transplanted into its permanent position after it has developed a strong root system.
Overall, Strychnos edulis Schweinf. can be propagated using seeds, stem cuttings, and suckers. Each propagation method has its advantages and disadvantages. Propagation by seeds is the easiest and most common method of propagation. Propagation by stem cuttings requires more effort but produces plants that are genetically identical to the parent plant. Propagation by suckers is reliable and produces plants that are physiologically adapted to the environment in which the parent tree is growing.
Disease Management
Several diseases can affect Strychnos edulis Schweinf. Some of the common ones include:
- Anthracnose: It's a fungal disease that can cause black spots on the plant's leaves and fruits. To manage, prune the affected parts and apply copper-based fungicides.
- Root rot: Overwatering, poor drainage, and high humidity can cause root rot. To prevent this, ensure that the plant has adequate drainage, avoid overwatering, and use well-draining soil. If the disease has already affected the plant, it's recommendable to remove the infected plant and replant the area.
- Leaf spot: It's another fungal disease that causes yellow or brown spots on the plant's leaves. To manage, prune the affected parts and apply copper-based fungicides.
- Powdery mildew: It's a fungal disease that causes a white powdery substance on the plant's leaves and fruits. To manage, ensure that the plant has proper spacing, good air circulation, and apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Several pests can affect Strychnos edulis Schweinf, some of the most common ones include:
- Fruit fly: It can cause damage to the ripening fruits. To manage, apply insecticides and remove any infected fruits.
- Scale insects: They can cause yellowing and stunted growth on the plant. To manage, wash the plant with soapy water or apply oil-based insecticides.
- Mites: They can cause yellow and distorted leaves. To manage, wash the plant with soapy water or apply insecticides.
- Caterpillars: They can cause defoliation on the plant. To manage, handpick them or apply bacillus thuringiensis-based insecticides.
It's essential to monitor the plant regularly and take immediate action when a pest or disease is detected. Also, use organic management approaches as much as possible to prevent harm to beneficial organisms.
