Overview
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker, commonly known as the Monkey Orange tree, is a medium-sized evergreen tree in the Strychnos genus. It belongs to the Loganiaceae family and is native to sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
Description
The Monkey Orange tree grows up to 10 meters high and has a dense, spreading crown. The bark is relatively smooth and grey-brown in color. The leaves are simple, smooth, and shiny green, with a distinctive pointed tip. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. These flowers contain male and female reproductive organs that allow for self-pollination. After the flowers, small, rounded fruits grow in clusters on the branches. The fruit has a hard exterior shell and contains a soft, pulpy interior with large seeds.
Uses
Strychnos zizyphoides is a valuable tree for communities in sub-Saharan Africa due to its several uses. Firstly, the pulp of the fruit is edible and provides a good source of Vitamin C. Secondly, the seeds contain a high level of amygdalin, which is used to extract cyanide where the cyanide is used for fishing and insecticides. Additionally, the hard shell of the fruit is used for carving and crafting because of its durability. The tree also has medicinal uses, with the leaves used to alleviate stomach pains and the roots used to treat snake bites.
Growth Conditions for Strychnos zizyphoides Baker
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker is a plant species that is native to Southern Africa. It is a deciduous tree that can reach up to 6 meters in height and 4 meters in width. The tree typically grows in savannas, open woodlands and rocky areas, and can tolerate a range of climatic conditions.
Light
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker grows well in areas that receive full sunlight and partial shade. The plant can tolerate high levels of light, although excessive direct sunlight can cause leaf scorching. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the tree is not exposed to excessive sunlight during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. However, it requires warmer temperatures during the growing seasons and cool temperatures during the dormant seasons. Ideal temperatures for growth range between 18 and 35 degrees Celsius. Temperatures below 0 degrees Celsius can be detrimental to the growth and survival of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker thrives in well-draining soils. The plant requires soils that are rich in nutrients and have a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. The soil should also be moist, but not waterlogged. In areas with poor soil quality, the plant can be grown in raised beds or containers filled with quality soil mix.
In conclusion, Strychnos zizyphoides Baker is adaptable to a wide range of climatic and soil conditions. Proper attention to light, temperature, and soil requirements will ensure the successful growth and development of this plant species.
Cultivation Methods
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker is a small tree that grows in tropical climates. If you are planning to cultivate this plant, you need to consider the environmental conditions of your region. It thrives in warm temperatures and grows best in well-draining, sandy soil rich in organic matter.
Plant the seeds in a well-prepared bed with plenty of organic matter and compost. Ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged during germination.
After germination, select the most robust seedlings and transplant them to their permanent positions.
Watering Needs
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker requires regular watering during the dry season to maintain healthy growth and productivity. The best time to water is in the early morning or late evening when the temperatures are low.
Water the plant thoroughly and consistently but avoid waterlogging the soil as this can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering depends on the environmental conditions of your region.
Fertilization
Fertilizer application is essential to enhance the growth and productivity of Strychnos zizyphoides Baker.
Apply a balanced fertilizer during planting, and after every growing season to provide the necessary nutrients for the plant's growth.
Organic fertilizers are highly recommended as they also improve soil structure and provide long-lasting nutrients.
Pruning
Pruning Strychnos zizyphoides Baker is essential to promote healthy growth and remove damaged and diseased branches. Pruning should be done during the dormant period, preferably after harvesting the fruit.
Remove any dead or decaying branches and thin out the canopy to allow better air circulation and sunlight penetration within the tree's canopy.
Prune the tree sparingly as excessive pruning can lead to lower fruit yield, growth retardation, and even death.
Propagation of Strychnos zizyphoides Baker
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker, also known as the "Monkey Orange" plant, can be propagated by different methods including seeds, cuttings, and root division.
Propagation by Seeds
The Monkey Orange plant produces seeds that can be collected during the fruiting season. After collection, the seeds should be cleaned and kept in a warm and dry environment for a few days until they are ready for sowing. The seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix and should be covered with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil moist and provide the seeds with plenty of light. Germination should occur within 2 to 4 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
The Monkey Orange plant can also be propagated by cuttings. Take a cutting from a healthy stem, ensuring that it is at least 10cm in length and has a minimum of 2 nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist. Place the pot in a warm and bright location but avoid placing it in direct sunlight. Roots should develop within 4 to 6 weeks.
Propagation by Root Division
A mature Monkey Orange plant can be propagated by root division. Carefully uproot the plant and separate the crown from the roots. Plant the crown in a well-draining potting mix and ensure that the soil is kept moist. Provide the plant with plenty of light but avoid placing it in direct sunlight. The plant should establish well within a few weeks.
Disease and Pest Management of Strychnos zizyphoides Baker
Strychnos zizyphoides Baker is an evergreen plant that is found in most tropical regions in Africa. The plant is known for its medicinal properties, but it is also subject to diseases and pests that affect its growth and productivity. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and how to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal diseases: The most common fungal diseases that affect Strychnos zizyphoides Baker include leaf spot, root rot, and powdery mildew. These diseases can cause yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and death of the plant. To manage fungal diseases, it is important to ensure that the plant is well-watered, but not overwatered. The use of fungicides can also help protect the plant from fungal diseases.
Viral diseases: Strychnos zizyphoides Baker is also susceptible to viral diseases like mosaic virus and leaf curl virus. These diseases can cause distorted leaves and hinder the plant's growth. To prevent the spread of viral diseases, it is important to remove infected plants and destroy them immediately. Planting disease-resistant varieties can also help prevent the spread of viral diseases.
Pests
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can be a major pest on Strychnos zizyphoides Baker, causing damage to leaves and fruits. To manage caterpillar infestations, it is important to remove infected plants and destroy them immediately. The use of biological controls like Bacillus thuringiensis can also be helpful in managing caterpillar infestations.
Aphids: Aphids can also infest Strychnos zizyphoides Baker, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To manage aphid infestations, introduce biological controls like ladybugs that feed on aphids. Insecticidal soap can also be used to control aphid populations.
Spider mites: Spider mites can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth on Strychnos zizyphoides Baker. To manage spider mite infestations, it is important to provide adequate water and nutrients to the plant. Introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs can also be helpful in managing spider mites.
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests on Strychnos zizyphoides Baker requires a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical control methods. It is important to monitor the plant for any signs of infestation and take immediate action to prevent the spread of diseases and pests. With proper management, Strychnos zizyphoides Baker can thrive and provide its numerous benefits.
