Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild.
Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild., also known as the African cherry or bitter kola tree, is a plant endemic to West African countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, and Cameroon. The plant usually grows in the rainforest and savannah regions and reaches a height of up to 30 meters.
Appearance
The African cherry tree has a dark brown-greyish bark with a vertical furrow. The leaves are dark green and are about 7-20 cm long and 3-10 cm wide. The tree produces fruit that is about the size of a small apple, which contains 2-4 seeds surrounded by a reddish-pink skin.
Common names
The African cherry tree is known by several common names in the countries where it is found. In Nigeria, it is called "Agbilu" or "Akilu," while in Ghana, it is known as "Nsuro" or "Nsoroma." The tree is also referred to as "bitter kola," "false kola," or "garcinia kola."
Uses
The African cherry tree has been used traditionally in West African countries for various medicinal purposes. The seeds of the fruit are known to contain caffeine and other stimulants that can improve athletic performance, reduce fatigue, and increase mental alertness. They are also used to treat malaria, respiratory problems, and as an aphrodisiac. The bark and leaves of the plant are also used to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and toothache.
In addition to its medicinal uses, the African cherry tree has several commercial uses. The fruit is edible and is used in the production of soft drinks and other food products. The tree is also a source of timber, which is used for furniture, construction, and other purposes.
Due to the high demand for the seeds, the African cherry tree is now being cultivated in other parts of the world, including Asia and South America.
Light Conditions
Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. is a shade-loving plant species and prefers to grow in partial or full shade. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight as it may cause damage to leaves and retard its growth. In their natural habitats, these plants are found growing under the canopy of large trees which provide them with dappled light.
Temperature Requirements
Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. grows well in warm and humid temperatures. It is a tropical plant species that cannot withstand extreme cold weather conditions. The ideal temperature range for the growth of this plant is between 18°C to 25°C. Temperatures below 10°C and above 36°C should be avoided.
Soil Requirements
Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It grows well in soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be loose, aerated and have good water retention capacity. The addition of organic matter such as compost, peat moss or well-rotted manure helps to improve soil fertility and water-holding capacity.
It should be noted that Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. is a sensitive plant, and any changes in its growing conditions can impact growth and overall health. To ensure optimal growth and development, it is important to provide the appropriate growing conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. is a tropical plant native to Africa. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and requires well-drained soil to grow. The best way to cultivate this plant is to use a method called layering. This involves taking a small branch of the plant and burying it in the soil while it is still attached to the parent plant. After a few weeks, the new plant will start to grow roots and can then be separated from the parent plant.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. are moderate. It is important not to overwater the plant, as this can cause root rot. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is best to water the plant deeply once a week rather than giving it small amounts of water every day. This will encourage the roots to grow deeper into the soil and make the plant more drought-resistant.
Fertilization
Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. does not require a lot of fertilizer. It should be fertilized once every three months with a balanced fertilizer. It is important not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth and weak branches that are prone to breaking.
Pruning
Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. requires minimal pruning. When pruning this plant, it is important to use sharp, clean tools to avoid damaging the branches. Pruning should be done in the early spring, just before the growing season begins. The branches should be cut back to encourage new growth and to keep the plant from becoming too tall or leggy.
Propagation of Tricalysia aurantiodora
Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. is propagated by both seeds and cuttings.
Seed propagation
The seeds of Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. are small, oval-shaped, and dark brown in color. They should be collected from mature fruits and sown immediately after collection. The sowing medium should be a well-draining soil mix with added organic matter.
The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1 cm and kept in a warm and humid environment. Germination should occur within 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings should be transplanted into individual containers when they have developed 2-3 leaves.
Cutting propagation
Propagation of Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. through cuttings is also possible. The cuttings should be taken from mature plants during the growing season and should be about 7-10 cm long.
The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining soil mix with added organic matter. They should be kept in a warm and humid environment, with regular misting to maintain high humidity around the cuttings.
Rooting of the cuttings should occur within 3-4 weeks, and they should be transplanted into individual containers once they have developed a good root system.
Disease and Pest Management for Tricalysia Aurantiodora De Wild.
Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild., commonly known as African cherry, is susceptible to several diseases and pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. To ensure healthy growth and optimal yield, it is necessary to implement proper disease and pest management practices.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. is powdery mildew. This fungal infection produces a white, powdery substance on the plant's leaves, stems, and flowers, leading to stunted growth and poor fruit quality.
Another disease that can affect Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. is charcoal rot, caused by the fungus Macrophomina phaseolina. This disease causes wilting, yellowing of leaves, and poor growth, ultimately leading to plant death in severe cases.
Disease Management
To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to maintain proper hygiene and sanitation practices in the garden. Prune affected parts of the plant, remove fallen leaves, and dispose of them as soon as possible. Applying a sulfur-based fungicide can also help prevent the spread of the disease.
For the management of charcoal rot, it is necessary to implement crop rotation practices and avoid planting Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. in areas where the disease has been previously found. Maintaining adequate soil moisture level and avoiding over-fertilization can also help prevent the disease.
Common Pests
The most common pests that can affect Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild. are aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests feed on the plant's sap, leading to yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and poor fruit quality.
Pest Management
To manage aphids and mealybugs, it is essential to maintain proper hygiene practices and remove any weed or plant debris that can harbor the pests. Biological control methods such as the use of ladybugs and lacewings can also be effective in controlling these pests. In severe cases, applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can help reduce the pest population.
To manage spider mites, it is advisable to spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the pests. Maintaining adequate humidity levels can also help prevent the infestation. In severe cases, applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control the pest population.
By implementing proper disease and pest management practices, it is possible to control the spread of diseases and pests and ensure healthy growth and abundant yield of Tricalysia aurantiodora De Wild.
