Overview
Uvaria engleriana Exell, commonly known as African cherry, is a plant species in the Annonaceae family. This plant is found mainly in West Africa and is known for its ornamental and medicinal properties.
General Appearance
The Uvaria engleriana Exell plant grows up to 10 meters tall and has a sparsely branched stem with thin, smooth bark. The leaves are simple, alternate, and leathery, measuring between 15 to 25 centimeters long and approximately 7 centimeters broad. The leaves are oblong or elliptical and are dark green with a glossy finish. The plant blooms in the fall with flowers that are pale yellow and approximately 2 centimeters in diameter. The ovary is densely covered with yellowish soft hairs and the fruit of the plant is a berry that is elliptical in shape and measures up to 3 centimeters in diameter.
Common Names
The Uvaria engleriana Exell plant is commonly known as African cherry in English. In other West African regions, it is referred to using various local names such as Lonhro in Vai, Ahobo in Akan, and Mma in Igbo.
Uses
The Uvaria engleriana Exell plant has various medicinal properties and is used for the treatment of illnesses such as fever, malaria, and diarrhea. The fruit of the plant is also consumed as a snack or used in cooking where it is added to soups. The plant is also grown for its ornamental value as it produces lush green foliage that adds to the beauty of a garden or landscape. Additionally, the extract of the Uvaria engleriana Exell plant has been used in the making of creams, ointments, and other beauty products for skin care.
Light Requirements
Uvaria engleriana Exell grows well in partially shaded areas or under direct sunlight. However, the plant prefers filtered light as excessive direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. Therefore, placing the plant near a window that allows filtered sunlight is the ideal location for Uvaria engleriana.
Temperature Requirements
Uvaria engleriana Exell grows well in a warm, humid environment. The plant thrives between 22°C to 28°C, making it suitable for growth in tropical regions. They do not tolerate cold temperature and should not be exposed to temperatures below 15°C. It is recommended to keep the plant in a place with a constant temperature to avoid temperature fluctuations that may negatively impact the plant's growth.
Soil Requirements
Uvaria engleriana Exell thrives in well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a neutral pH range between 6.5 and 7.5, as the plant does not tolerate acidic soil. It is essential to ensure that the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. A combination of standard potting mix and perlite is suitable for Uvaria engleriana to ensure proper drainage and water retention.
Cultivation Methods for Uvaria Engleriana Exell
Uvaria Engleriana Exell, commonly known as the African Climbing Fig, is a climbing shrub native to West Africa. To cultivate this plant successfully, you need to provide it with the right growing conditions.
For optimal growth, Uvaria Engleriana Exell requires well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. You can plant it in fertile soil under partial sun or light shade. This plant prefers a warm and humid environment, so ensure that the temperature remains between 70°F to 75°F.
Watering Needs for Uvaria Engleriana Exell
Uvaria Engleriana Exell requires moderate watering during its growing season. Water the plant when the topsoil is dry, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot. In the winter, reduce the watering and allow the soil to dry out between watering sessions.
Fertilization for Uvaria Engleriana Exell
You can use a balanced fertilizer to provide essential nutrients to Uvaria Engleriana Exell. Apply fertilizer twice a month to encourage healthy growth. In the winter, reduce the frequency of fertilization to once every six weeks.
Pruning Uvaria Engleriana Exell
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of the Uvaria Engleriana Exell plant. You can trim the branches in the early spring before new growth appears. Remove weak and damaged branches to allow sunlight to penetrate the plant, and encourage new growth. Also, remove any suckers that appear on the base of the plant as they take essential nutrients from the main plant.
Propagation of Uvaria engleriana Exell
Uvaria engleriana Exell is a tropical plant species that belongs to the Annonaceae family. The plant has ornamental and medicinal uses. Propagation of Uvaria engleriana Exell involves two common methods.
Seed Propagation
Uvaria engleriana Exell can be propagated from seeds. The seeds of the plant are enclosed in a fleshy pulp. It is recommended to remove the pulp before planting. The seeds should be extracted, cleaned, and dried before planting.
The seeds should be planted in germination trays or seedling bags filled with well-drained soil. The soil should be moist. The seeds should be covered lightly with soil, and the tray or bag should be kept in a warm and humid environment. It is recommended to place the tray or bag in a shaded area to prevent the seeds from drying out.
Germination usually occurs within 2 to 3 weeks. After germination, the seedlings should be transplanted into individual pots. The seedlings should be watered regularly and fertilized with a balanced fertilizer. After 4 to 6 months, the seedlings should be ready for transplantation to their permanent location.
Vegetative Propagation
Uvaria engleriana Exell can also be propagated vegetatively. The common methods of vegetative propagation include stem cuttings and layering.
Stem cuttings should be taken from the parent plant during the active growth season. The cuttings should be 10 to 15 cm long and should have at least two nodes. The lower leaves of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in a rooting hormone. The cutting should be planted in well-drained soil in a shaded area. The soil should be kept moist, and the cutting should be watered regularly. The cutting should root in 4 to 6 weeks.
Layering involves bending one of the branches of the parent plant to the ground. A portion of the branch is buried in the soil, leaving the tip exposed. The branch should be pegged down to keep it in place. The buried portion of the branch should develop roots over time. After a few months, the rooted branch can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted to its permanent location.
Overall, Uvaria engleriana Exell can be propagated from seeds or vegetatively from stem cuttings or layering.
Disease management
Uvaria engleriana Exell is generally resistant to most diseases, but some fungal and bacterial infections can affect the plant's health. The best way to prevent diseases is to maintain proper hygiene in the garden, including the removal of fallen leaves and plant debris. Regular inspection of the foliage can help detect diseases early, and affected plant parts should be pruned and disposed of immediately to prevent further spread. Fungicides and bactericides can be used to manage severe infections but should be applied as per the manufacturer's instructions.
Pest management
Uvaria engleriana Exell can be susceptible to some pests, such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can cause wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunting of plant growth. The use of chemical pesticides should be avoided, as they can harm beneficial insects and pollinators. Instead, using organic pest control methods can be effective, such as introducing predator insects like ladybugs and lacewings. Insecticidal soaps and neem oil can also be used to manage pests effectively.
