Overview
Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. is a flowering plant that belongs to the family of Rubiaceae. It is a woody plant that is native to western and central Africa, where it is commonly found in the tropical rainforests.Common Names
This plant goes by several common names, including velvet seed plant, black plum, and African medlar. The specific name "velutina" refers to its velvety texture, while the name "laevior" means smoother, which distinguishes it from the other varieties of Vangueria velutina.Appearance
Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. is a small tree or shrub that typically grows up to 10 meters in height. Its leaves are shiny and dark green, elliptic in shape, and around 15-25 centimeters in length. The plant produces small white flowers that bloom in clusters, which later develop into small, round fruit that is black in color when ripe. The fruit is fleshy and edible, and it has a sweet and aromatic flavor.Uses
Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. has many traditional medicinal uses. Its bark and leaves are used as a remedy for fever, malaria, and gastrointestinal disorders, while the dried fruit is used for treating skin diseases, conjunctivitis, and general weakness. Additionally, the fruit is used as a flavoring agent in food and drinks, and it is also used in the production of wine. The wood of the tree is durable and used to make tool handles and furniture.Light Requirements
Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. thrives well in full sunlight or partial shade conditions. It requires at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight to grow and flourish. Insufficient sunlight can cause stunted growth and poor flowering.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm climatic conditions with a temperature range of 20-30°C. The minimum temperature required for the growth of Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. is 15°C. Therefore, it cannot withstand frost or extreme cold conditions.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil type for Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. is a well-drained, loamy soil with good fertility. The plant prefers neutral or slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It cannot tolerate waterlogged or poorly drained soils as it can cause root rot and other diseases. Adding organic matter to the soil can improve its fertility and water retention capacity.
Cultivation Methods
The Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. plant is an evergreen shrub commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers full sun or partial shade, well-draining soils, and a warm and humid climate. The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. If planting from seeds, soak them in water for 24 hours before sowing. Cuttings should be taken from semi-ripe wood and planted in a mixture of sand and compost.
Watering Needs
The Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the plant sit in water as it can lead to root rot. In the winter months, reduce watering, but do not allow the soil to dry out completely.
Fertilization
The Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. plant benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. Apply a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. Slow-release fertilizers can also be used as an alternative.
Pruning
The Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. plant does not require regular pruning, but it can be done to maintain the desired shape and size. Pruning can also stimulate branching and encourage new growth. It is best to prune the plant after flowering to prevent the removal of potential flower buds. Remove any dead or diseased branches and cut back the top growth to promote branching.
Propagation of Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum.
Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum., commonly known as Velvet-leaf white ironwood, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. It is native to southern and eastern Africa and is widely cultivated for its edible fruit. Propagation of this plant can be achieved through various methods including:
Seed propagation
The most common and easiest way to propagate Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. is through seeds. For successful germination, the seeds must be fully matured and cleaned. The cleaned seeds can then be sown immediately or stored in a cool, dry place until the next planting season. Plant the seeds in well-prepared soil, covering them with about 1 cm of soil, and water them lightly. The seedlings will sprout after 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings propagation
Another propagation method for Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. is through stem cuttings. This method involves taking a stem cutting from the mother plant and planting it in a well-draining soil mixture. The soil mixture should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, and the cutting placed in a shady spot to avoid direct sunlight. The cutting should start to develop roots after 2-3 weeks.
Air layering propagation
Air layering is another effective method of propagating Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. This method involves wounding a chosen stem of the plant and applying a rooting hormone to the wound. The wounded area is then wrapped with damp sphagnum moss, covered with plastic wrap, and left for several months. After the roots have developed, the new plant can be severed from the parent plant and planted in a new pot or directly in the garden.
By using any of these propagation methods, a grower can easily propagate Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. to achieve more plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum.
Vangueria velutina Hiern var. laevior K.Schum. is a hardy tree that can tolerate various soil conditions. Despite its resilience, it is still susceptible to pest infestations and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that can cause sunken patches on the branches or trunks of the tree. It can spread quickly and cause extensive damage to the plant. To manage canker, remove the infected branches and apply fungicide to the wounds.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves. It can cause the leaves to fall prematurely and weaken the plant. To manage leaf spot, remove and destroy infected leaves and apply fungicide to the plant.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can cause the leaves to curl and become distorted. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to remove them or apply insecticidal soap.
Mites: Mites are tiny arachnids that can cause damage to the leaves of the plant. They feed on the sap of the plant, causing leaves to yellow and fall off. To manage mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or apply insecticidal soap.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small insects that can cover the leaves and twigs of the plant. They feed on the sap of the plant and can cause wilting and stunting. To manage scale insects, prune and destroy infected areas or apply insecticidal soap.
Regular monitoring of the plant for signs of disease or pest infestations can help manage these issues before they become severe. Using proper cultural practices, such as watering and fertilizing appropriately, can also help keep the plant healthy and better able to resist diseases and pests.
