Overview
Synsepalum brevipes (Baker) T.D.Penn. is a plant species belonging to the family Sapotaceae and native to regions of Central Africa. The plant is known for its edible fruits and various medicinal uses.
Common Names
The plant is commonly referred to as African Miracle Berry, Bagla, Nkok, or Ndupa in different regions of its origin.
Appearance
Synsepalum brevipes is a small tree that can grow up to 6 meters in height. The plant has a glossy green oval-shaped leaves that are about 3-10 cm long. The shrub produces small, edible, round-shaped fruit, similar in appearance to cherry tomatoes, slightly harder in texture, with a sweet pulp and a slightly acid taste. The fruit ranges from 1.5 to 3.5 cm in diameter.
Uses
The harvested fruits of Synsepalum brevipes have a sweet and tangy flavor and are consumed raw or used to sweeten sour foods. The fruit is also used to make jams and jellies.
The African Miracle Berry also has several medicinal properties and is used to treat various diseases such as constipation, fever, and diabetes. The plant extracts are used in traditional medicine to treat hypertension and high blood sugar level.
In some regions, the leaves of the plant are used to treat snake bites. Indigenous people have also used it to treat stomach aches, diarrhea, and bacterial infections.
Growth Conditions of Synsepalum brevipes
Synsepalum brevipes, commonly known as African cherry, is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the Sapotaceae family. This fruit plant is native to Central and West Africa and is cultivated in several parts of the world. This plant typically thrives in subtropical to tropical regions with consistent rainfall distribution throughout the year.
Light Requirements
Synsepalum brevipes prefer partial to full sun exposure for optimal growth. The plant requires at least six hours of sunlight to produce fruits, but excessive exposure to direct sunlight may cause damage to the fruit skin. In high-intensity areas, it's ideal to provide shade to the tree or plant at a location where it benefits from a moderate amount of sunlight with proper shading.
Temperature Requirements
African cherry is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures to thrive. The optimal temperature range for Synsepalum brevipes lies between 25°C to 35°C. The plant cannot tolerate freezing temperatures and frost, and even a mild frost can harm the tree's fruit and leaves. Therefore, it's essential to choose a location with warm temperatures and avoid planting it in areas with icy conditions.
Soil Requirements
The African cherry tree prefers well-draining, loamy soil with neutral to slightly acidic pH (6.0-7.0). The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged conditions and may experience root rot if the soil does not allow adequate drainage. It's best to enrich the soil with organic matter to enhance soil fertility, and regular soil testing is recommended to ensure that soil requirements are met. Adding a layer of mulch around the tree will also help to retain moisture and nutrients in the soil.
Cultivation Methods for Synsepalum brevipes
Synsepalum brevipes (Baker) T.D.Penn. is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures to thrive. It can be grown in pots or planted directly in the ground. The ideal soil for this plant is well-draining, loamy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 6.5. It prefers partial shade to full sun and needs protection from strong winds.
Watering Needs for Synsepalum brevipes
The soil around Synsepalum brevipes should be kept moist but not wet. The plant should be watered when the topsoil is dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot and kill the plant. During the growing season, the plant may require more frequent watering, while in winter, it may need less water.
Fertilization of Synsepalum brevipes
Synsepalum brevipes requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth. Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Reduce the frequency of fertilization during winter. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which is harmful to the plant.
Pruning of Synsepalum brevipes
Synsepalum brevipes does not require rigorous pruning, but a light pruning can help maintain its shape and encourage bushier growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before the growing season. Remove any dead or diseased branches or leaves. Trim back any branches that are growing too long or out of shape. Use sharp pruning shears to prevent damaging the plant.
Propagation of Synsepalum brevipes
Synsepalum brevipes, commonly known as the short-stalked miracle berry, is a tropical shrub native to West and Central Africa. This fruit-bearing plant is valued for its medicinal properties and culinary use. Propagation of Synsepalum brevipes can be achieved through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are an excellent method for propagating Synsepalum brevipes. The seedlings take around four to six weeks to germinate, and they require warmth and a moist environment. The optimum temperature range for seed germination is between 25-35°C with a relative humidity of about 80%. After germination, the seedlings take nine to twelve months to reach transplanting size.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another method for propagating Synsepalum brevipes. This can be achieved either by using softwood, hardwood stem cuttings or removing suckers from the parent plant. Softwood cuttings should be taken during spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing, whereas hardwood cuttings should be taken in the fall or winter when the plant is dormant. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone before being planted in a suitable potting mix and kept moist.
Air-Layering Propagation
Air-layering is a propagation method that produces new plants while retaining the desirable characteristics of the parent plant. This method involves wounding the stem of the parent plant, covering it with wet sphagnum moss and wrapping it with plastic. The wounded area produces roots, and a new plant can be separated from the parent plant and potted up once enough roots have developed.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another propagation method that is widely used for Synsepalum brevipes. This technique involves fusing a small section of the desired plant, called the scion, onto the rootstock of another compatible plant. Grafting is usually done during the dormant season, with the scion typically taken from a highly-productive plant. The rootstock used must be healthy and preferably disease-resistant.
Propagation is an essential aspect of cultivating Synsepalum brevipes, and choosing the best propagation method depends on the grower's preference, expertise, and resources.
Disease Management
One of the common diseases that affect Synsepalum brevipes is leaf spot. This is usually caused by a fungal infection and is characterized by the appearance of small, circular spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and dispose of any infected plant material. Additionally, it may be necessary to use fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
Another disease that may affect this plant is powdery mildew. This is characterized by a white, powdery growth on the leaves and stems. In severe cases, it may cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage this disease, it is important to maintain good airflow around the plant and avoid overwatering. If necessary, fungicides may also be used.
Pest Management
One of the common pests that affect Synsepalum brevipes is mealybugs. These insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and leaf drop. To manage them, it is important to inspect the plant regularly and remove any visible insects with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Additionally, systemic insecticides may be used to control their population.
Another pest that may affect this plant is spider mites. These tiny pests suck the sap out of the leaves and can cause yellowing and spotting. To manage them, it is important to maintain good humidity around the plant and avoid overwatering. Additionally, insecticidal soaps or oils may be used to control their population.
