Overview
Synsepalum aubrevillei is a rare and remarkable plant species that belongs to the family of Sapotaceae. This plant is native to the rainforests of central and western Africa. It is a small evergreen tree that can grow up to 15 meters in height. The plant is also known by several other names, including the Gabon chocolate tree, Imbonga, and Owala.
Description
The Synsepalum aubrevillei tree has a slender trunk with a deeply fissured bark. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and are up to 10 cm long and 5 cm wide. The plant produces small flowers that are white or greenish-white and are followed by small, fleshy, green fruits that eventually turn chocolate brown when they ripen. The fruit is about the size of a marble and contains a single seed that is surrounded by a sweet, edible pulp.
Uses
The Synsepalum aubrevillei tree is primarily valued for its sweet and chocolatey flavored fruit. The ripe fruit is consumed fresh or is used to make juices, sweet preserves, and desserts. The plant's wood is also used for making furniture and tool handles. In Gabon, the bark, leaves, and roots extracts are used for medicinal purposes such as treating stomach problems, diarrhea, and skin infections.
Cultivation
The Synsepalum aubrevillei tree grows in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers a warm, humid climate and is not cold-tolerant. It requires regular watering and occasional fertilization to grow well. Propagation can be done by seed or by vegetative cuttings. Due to the plant's slow growth rate and its rarity, it is considered a vulnerable species in its natural habitat and measures are being put in place to conserve it.
Growth Conditions for Synsepalum Aubrevillei Plant
Synsepalum Aubrevillei, also known as African Cherry, is a fruit-bearing plant that is native to the tropical regions of Africa. It requires specific growth conditions to thrive. Here are some of the essential growth conditions that the plant requires:
Light Requirements
The plant thrives in direct sunlight and partial shade. It is recommended to place the plant in an area that receives six hours of direct sunlight daily. However, excessive exposure to direct sunlight may cause the plant to wither. Partial shade is, therefore, necessary to regulate the amount of sunlight that the plant receives.
Temperature Requirements
The optimum temperature range for the plant is between 18°C to 25°C. The plant requires a consistent temperature level, and thus it is sensitive to temperature fluctuations. In areas where temperatures fall below 18°C, it may be necessary to grow the plants indoors or under a greenhouse.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires a well-drained soil that is rich in nutrients. The soil must be moist, but it should not be waterlogged. It is recommended to mulch the plant to ensure that the soil retains moisture. The plant requires acidic soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. Loamy soils are ideal for this plant. The application of organic fertilizers will significantly improve the plant's growth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, to ensure that Synsepalum Aubrevillei thrives, there must be a careful balance of light, temperature, and soil conditions. Although it is relatively easy to grow, the plant requires monitoring to avoid over-exposure to direct light and fluctuations in temperature levels. The application of organic fertilizers will significantly improve the plant's growth, and the soil must be moist and well-drained. Regular mulching is also necessary to ensure soil moisture retention.
Cultivation methods
Synsepalum aubrevillei, also known as the Miracle fruit, is a tropical evergreen tree that requires specific growing conditions for optimum growth. The plant thrives in a warm climate with well-draining, acidic soil. It is best to grow Synsepalum aubrevillei indoors in a container, which can be moved outdoors during summer. The plant requires consistent humidity, so placing a humidifier nearby or placing a tray of water near the plant can help.Watering needs
The watering needs of Synsepalum aubrevillei depend on the temperature and the humidity of the environment in which it is grown. The soil should always be moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. During winter, reduce watering as the plant enters its dormant phase.Fertilization
Synsepalum aubrevillei requires regular fertilization to ensure optimal growth. During the growing season, apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and use half the recommended strength. Avoid fertilizing during winter, as the plant is dormant and does not require as many nutrients.Pruning
Pruning of Synsepalum aubrevillei is necessary to encourage bushy growth and maintain the shape of the plant. Regularly remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches with sterile pruning shears. The best time to prune is during spring or early summer when new growth appears. You can also trim the tips of young branches to encourage bushy growth. Avoid pruning during winter when the plant is dormant.Propagation of Synsepalum aubrevillei
Synsepalum aubrevillei, commonly known as the African mango, is a fruit-bearing plant species native to Africa. It is a slow-growing plant and can take up to 15 years to fruit. However, the plant can be propagated through several methods.
Propagation by seed
The easiest and most common way to propagate Synsepalum aubrevillei is through seed. The plant produces a large seed which can be removed from the fruit and planted directly in soil. The soil must be well-draining and rich in organic matter. The seed should be planted about 2 cm deep and watered regularly. The seedlings will emerge in 4-6 weeks and should be kept in a warm and moist environment. Once the seedling reaches a height of 15-20 cm, it can be transplanted to its final location.
Propagation by cuttings
An alternative method of propagating Synsepalum aubrevillei is through stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood in the early fall. About 10-15 cm of the stem should be cut just below a node. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and planted in soil. The soil should be kept moist and the cuttings should be covered with a plastic bag to retain moisture. The cuttings will likely take a few months to root and should be kept in a warm and bright spot. Once roots have formed, the plant can be transferred to a bigger pot or planted in soil.
Air-layering
Air-layering is another way to propagate Synsepalum aubrevillei. This method involves cutting a section of bark off the stem, applying rooting hormone, and then wrapping it in moist sphagnum moss, before wrapping it in plastic and sealing it. Roots will eventually form in the moist moss and once they have established, the new plant can be cut and planted in soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Synsepalum Aubrevillei
Synsepalum aubrevillei, commonly known as the African star apple, can be susceptible to a range of diseases and pests. Effective disease and pest management strategies are crucial to maintaining the health and productivity of the plant. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect Synsepalum aubrevillei and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a common fungal disease that affects many fruit trees, including Synsepalum aubrevillei. Symptoms include black spots on the leaves, stems, and fruit, which can lead to defoliation and poor fruit quality. To manage anthracnose, it is recommended to remove and dispose of infected plant material, avoid overhead irrigation, and apply a fungicide spray in early spring and fall before the onset of rainy periods.
Bacterial Blight: Bacterial blight is a bacterial disease that can cause leaf drop, stem dieback, and fruit rot in Synsepalum aubrevillei. The disease is spread by water and infected plant material. To manage bacterial blight, it is recommended to remove and destroy infected plant material, practice good sanitation, and apply a copper-based fungicide spray in the early stages of the disease.
Common Pests
Fruit Flies: Fruit flies are a common pest that can cause damage to the fruit of Synsepalum aubrevillei. Adult fruit flies lay their eggs in the fruit, and the larvae feed on the fruit flesh, causing it to rot and drop prematurely. To manage fruit flies, it is recommended to remove and destroy damaged fruit, dispose of fallen fruit, and apply insecticidal sprays or baits containing spinosad or phloxine B, which are effective against fruit flies.
Mites: Mites are a common pest that can cause damage to the leaves and fruit of Synsepalum aubrevillei. Symptoms include yellowing and curling of leaves, and small, discolored spots on the fruit. To manage mites, it is recommended to remove and dispose of infected plant material, apply insecticidal sprays containing miticides, and maintain proper irrigation to prevent drought stress, which can worsen mite infestations.
By following these disease and pest management strategies for Synsepalum aubrevillei, growers can help ensure the health and productivity of their plants, and optimize fruit quality and yield.
