Overview
Vepris gabonensis (Pierre) Mziray, also known as Gabonese vepris or African wild orange, is a plant species that belongs to the family Rutaceae. It is an evergreen tree that is native to tropical Africa. The plant is commonly found in Gabon, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, and Namibia.
General Appearance
Vepris gabonensis is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. It has a straight trunk that is up to 50 cm in diameter. The bark is gray and smooth when young, but becomes rough and craggy with age. The leaves are compound, alternate, and measure between 10-40 cm long. They are glossy, dark green on the upper surface and paler on the underside. The plant produces small white flowers that are followed by edible orange fruit.
Common Names
Vepris gabonensis has several common names depending on the region. In Gabon, it is called Bois fétiche, Mbamba, Bwiti, and Ngo. In Cameroon, it is known as Mbrè, Kuma, and Nkol. In the Central African Republic, it is called Baba, Bomoko, and Nguérégo. In Congo, it is referred to as Kilinga, Mbaiba, and Mboyi. In Namibia, it is called Omulunga, Ondhelela, and Erembo.
Uses
The plant has a variety of uses. The fruit is edible, and the pulp is used to make wine and marmalades. The bark and leaves are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, such as malaria, stomach ache, and fever. The wood is used for construction, furniture, and firewood. The plant is also used in religious ceremonies by some indigenous communities in Africa.
Light Requirements
Vepris gabonensis (Pierre) Mziray thrives best under bright, indirect light. Too much direct sunlight can harm the plant, and too little light can stunt its growth. Artificial light can be utilized as a supplement to natural light to ensure consistent growth.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Vepris gabonensis (Pierre) Mziray is between 18°C-25°C (64°F-77°F) during the day and 15°C-18°C (59°F-64°F) at night. Temperatures above 30°C (86°F) should be avoided as it can cause the plant to wilt, and temperatures below 10°C (50°F) can lead to severe damage and death of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Vepris gabonensis (Pierre) Mziray should be well-draining, nutrient-rich which should be maintained at slightly acidic pH levels. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and potting soil can be used to ensure proper drainage and nutrient availability. Adequate drainage is essential to prevent root rot, while nutrient-rich soil ensures healthy growth and development of the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Vepris gabonensis
The Vepris gabonensis (Pierre) Mziray, commonly known as African teak, is a slow-growing evergreen tree that grows up to 30 meters tall in the wild. When cultivated, the tree requires a well-drained, sandy soil mixed with organic matter like compost, manure, or leaf litter. You can propagate Vepris gabonensis through seedlings or by using stem cuttings.
Watering Needs for Vepris gabonensis
Veperis gabonensis requires moderate watering, especially during the dry season. Young plants need regular watering to establish strong roots, but mature trees can withstand droughts. The tree prefers a well-draining soil that retains enough moisture to keep the roots hydrated. Avoid overwatering as it may lead to root rot and ultimately kill the tree.
Fertilization of Vepris gabonensis
Vepris gabonensis is a slow-growing tree with low to moderate nutritional requirements. Fertilization is only necessary when the soil is deficient in certain nutrients; otherwise, an organic mulch is enough to provide essential minerals. You can use compost, manure or a general-purpose fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 5:5:5 or 10:10:10 applied once a year. The application rate depends on the age of the tree and the type of fertilizer.
Pruning Vepris gabonensis
Pruning is not necessary for the Vepris gabonensis tree, but it can help maintain a manageable shape and remove diseased or dead branches. You can prune the tree during the dormant season (winter) or after the fruiting season (summer). Young trees need formative pruning to encourage the growth of a central leader and remove low branches. Mature trees require minimal pruning, mainly to cut back any water shoots or crossing branches.
Propagation of Vepris gabonensis (Pierre) Mziray
Vepris gabonensis (Pierre) Mziray is a plant that can be propagated through different methods, including:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Vepris gabonensis is through seeds. The seeds should be collected when the fruit is mature and ready to fall from the tree. Clean and dry the seeds, then sow them in a potting mix that drains well. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil, then water them. Place the pot in a warm, bright location, and keep the soil moist. The seeds should germinate within four weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
A second method of propagating Vepris gabonensis is through cuttings. Cut a stem from the tree that is about 8-10 cm long and remove the lower leaves. Dip the stem into rooting hormone powder, then plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining potting mix. Cover the pot with a plastic bag, ensuring the bag is not touching the cutting. Place the pot in a warm, bright location, and keep the soil moist. After a month, the cutting should have rooted.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is a third method for propagating Vepris gabonensis. Choose a healthy, mature branch, and make a cut about halfway through the branch. Wrap some damp sphagnum moss around the cut, and cover it with plastic wrap. Secure both ends of the plastic wrap with tape. After roots have developed, cut the branch below the new roots and plant it in a well-draining potting mix.
Disease and Pest Management of Vepris gabonensis
Vepris gabonensis, commonly known as African corkwood, is a plant species that belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is a tropical hardwood tree found mainly in West and Central Africa. Like any other plant, African corkwood is prone to diseases and pests attack. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect Vepris gabonensis and how to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose disease: Anthracnose disease is caused by the fungal pathogen Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. It causes brown or black spots on leaves and twigs and can lead to defoliation, stunting, and dieback. To manage anthracnose disease, remove infected leaves and twigs and dispose of them far from the tree. Avoid overhead watering and prune your tree to increase air circulation and sunlight penetration.
Root rot disease: Phytophthora parasitica is the primary cause of root rots in African corkwood. It causes the roots to get darker, slimy, and eventually rot off. To manage this disease, practice good irrigation management and avoid overwatering. Also, avoid planting Vepris gabonensis in waterlogged soils. There are several fungicides available for treating root rot diseases in trees. Always follow the prescribed instructions and guidelines when using fungicides.
Pests
Mites: Mites are small arthropods that feed on the sap of Vepris gabonensis. They cause yellowing of leaves, defoliation, and stunted growth. To manage mites, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oils. You can also introduce predatory mites that feed on the harmful ones. Also, practice good sanitation habits around the tree to eliminate mite-friendly habitats.
Scale insects: Scale insects are tiny insects that attach themselves to the bark of Vepris gabonensis. They suck the sap from the tree and cause yellowing of leaves, defoliation, and dieback. To control scale insects, you can use horticultural oils. Pruning the tree also helps by removing infested twigs and branches. Also, avoid overuse of nitrogen-based fertilizers, as they tend to increase scale insect populations.
Proper disease and pest management practices are crucial for maintaining the health of your Vepris gabonensis tree. Always practice good sanitation habits around the tree and monitor for any signs of diseases or pest attacks.
