Overview
Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns is a species of plant that is native to the tropical areas of Africa. It belongs to the family of plants known as the Rubiaceae, which also includes coffee and gardenia. This plant is also sometimes called African medlar.
Appearance
The Vangueria chariensis plant is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 7 meters tall. Its leaves are glossy and leathery, and they grow up to 10 cm long. The tree produces small yellowish-white flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. These flowers are followed by small, fleshy, red to black fruits that are similar in appearance to olives.
Uses
The fruit of the Vangueria chariensis plant is edible and has been used for centuries in traditional African medicine to treat a variety of ailments. The fruit is rich in vitamin C and has a sweet, sour, and slightly tart flavor. It is commonly eaten raw or used in the preparation of jams, jellies, and sauces. The tree bark has also been used to make an infusion to treat a range of health problems, including fever and stomach disorders. The wood of the Vangueria chariensis tree is used to make tools and utensils, and it is also used for firewood and charcoal.
Common Names
Vangueria chariensis is commonly known as African medlar, wild medlar, and Chari River bell.
Growth conditions of Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns
Light: Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns plants thrive well in full sunlight to partial shade conditions. However, they tend to grow best in partial shade conditions, where the light intensity ranges from 50% to 70%.
Temperature: These plants favor warm and humid conditions and grow well in areas with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The minimum temperature the plants require should be around 10°C, while the maximum should not exceed 40°C.
Soil: Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns plants grow well in any fertile, well-draining soil. However, they thrive best in sandy loam soils with a pH value between 5.5 and 7.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and have good water-holding capacity to ensure the plant has enough water during dry seasons.
Water: Adequate water supply is essential for the growth of this plant. The plant requires moderate watering throughout the year, especially during the dry season. However, the soil should never be waterlogged as it can lead to root rot and the eventual death of the plant.
Fertilizer: Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns plants benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. It is advisable to apply fertilizer every three months to ensure the plant has all the necessary nutrients for healthy growth.
Propagation: The plant can be propagated through seed or vegetative means. Seed propagation is the most common method, and it should be done during the rainy season when the soil is moist. Vegetative propagation is done through stem cuttings treated with rooting hormone to enhance rooting.
Cultivation
Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns, commonly known as West African Cherry or Chari cherry, is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid conditions. The plant grows best in loamy soils with good drainage. It also requires sunlight for optimal growth and development. However, it can also tolerate a partial shade environment.
The plant is best grown from seeds, and it is recommended to first sow the seeds in a seedbed before transferring them to a permanent location. When transplanting, the spacing between plants should be at least five meters apart to allow for sufficient light penetration and airflow.
Watering Needs
Watering is essential for the growth and development of Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns. The plant needs consistent and adequate water supply to maintain its health and productivity. During the growing season, the plant requires regular watering, especially during dry periods.
However, care should be taken not to overwater the plant, as this may lead to waterlogged soil and root rot. It is recommended to water the plant when the topsoil is dry to the touch. Additionally, mulching around the plant can help retain moisture and reduce the frequency of watering.
Fertilization
Applying fertilizer to Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns can help improve its growth and productivity. It is recommended to apply a slow-release fertilizer rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium during the growing season. The frequency of application should be based on the manufacturer's instructions.
However, care should be taken not to over-fertilize the plant, as this may lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruiting. Additionally, periodic soil testing can help determine the plant's nutrient requirements and inform the timing and quantity of fertilizer application.
Pruning
Pruning Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns is essential for maintaining its shape, promoting airflow, and improving fruit quality. The best time to prune is during the dormant period, just before the onset of the growing season.
The pruning should involve removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Additionally, any branches that cross or rub against each other should be removed to prevent injuries and potential entry points for pests and diseases.
However, care should be taken not to over-prune the plant, as this may lead to reduced fruit production. It is recommended to consult a professional if unsure of the pruning requirements of the plant.
Propagation of Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns
Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns, commonly known as African medlar or wild medlar, is a fruit-bearing shrub or small tree that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. Propagation for this plant involves various methods. These include:
Seed propagation
Propagation from seed is considered the easiest and most common method for Vangueria chariensis. The seeds should be collected from ripe fruits, washed and left to dry for 3 to 4 days. The seeds can then be planted in prepared soil that is rich in organic matter, and kept moist. Germination will usually happen within 4 weeks.
Cuttings propagation
Cuttings taken from matured Vangueria chariensis have a higher rate of success than those taken from juvenile plants. Softwood cuttings, which are taken from new growth, must be made during the growing season and treated with rooting hormones before being planted in a well-draining rooting medium. Hardwood cuttings should be taken in the dormant season and planted in a sandy soil mixture. Roots will develop over a period of several months.
Air-layering propagation
Air-layering is a propagation method used for plants that are difficult to root from cuttings. For Vangueria chariensis, the process involves removing a 1 to 2-inch ring of bark from the middle of the stem, covering it with moist sphagnum moss, and then wrapping it with plastic film. Roots will develop in about 2 to 3 months, and the new plant should be separated from the parent plant and potted in a suitable medium.
Grafting propagation
Grafting is another method used for propagating Vangueria chariensis. This involves taking a scion from a desirable variety and grafting it onto another rootstock. The rootstock must be carefully chosen to ensure that it is compatible with the scion. Once grafted, the plant should be kept in a warm, moist environment until new growth is observed.
Disease Management for Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns
Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns is susceptible to a number of diseases including leaf spot, powdery mildew, root rot, and canker. Early detection and prevention are key to managing these diseases.
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes dark spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and use a fungicide labeled for use on Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns. Proper plant spacing and good airflow can also help prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that creates a white powdery coating on leaves, stems, and flowers. This disease thrives in humid conditions. To manage powdery mildew, use a fungicide labeled for use on Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns. Remove and destroy infected plant parts and ensure good airflow around the plant. Plant in a location with good sunlight and well-drained soil.
Root rot is a fungal disease that attacks the roots of the plant, causing wilting and eventually death. This disease is more common in poorly-drained soil. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. When planting, choose a location with well-drained soil. If you suspect root rot, remove the plant and destroy it, and avoid planting Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns in the same location.
Canker is a fungal disease that causes sunken areas on the branches and trunk of the plant. To manage canker, remove and destroy infected plant parts and use a fungicide labeled for use on Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns. Proper pruning and plant spacing can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns
Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns is susceptible to a number of pests including scale, mealybugs, and spider mites. Early detection and prevention are key to managing these pests.
Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to the leaves or bark of the plant. To manage scale, remove and destroy infected plant parts and use an insecticide labeled for use on Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns. Proper pruning and plant spacing can also help prevent the spread of the insects.
Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that create a white, waxy coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage mealybugs, remove and destroy infected plant parts and use an insecticide labeled for use on Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns. Introducing natural predators, such as ladybugs, can also help control the infestation.
Spider mites are tiny pests that create webbing on the plant. They are more common in dry conditions. To manage spider mites, increase the humidity around the plant and use an insecticide labeled for use on Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns. Introducing natural predators, such as predatory mites, can also help control the infestation.
Regular monitoring and proper plant care can help prevent and manage both diseases and pests in Vangueria chariensis A.Chev. ex Robyns.
