Origin and Common Names
Irvingia mossambicensis Sims is a tree commonly found in sub-Saharan Africa, specifically in Mozambique, Tanzania, and Zambia. It is a member of the Irvingiaceae family, commonly known as bush mango, ogbono, or wild mango. It is known for its large fruit, which has been used for centuries by African tribes for its medicinal properties and as a source of food.Uses
The fruit of the Irvingia mossambicensis tree is edible, and it is commonly used in African cuisine as a thickener for soups and stews. The fruit's large seed also contains a high concentration of oil, which is used for cooking and in cosmetics. The bark, leaves, and roots of the tree have also been traditionally used in African medicine to treat various ailments, including diarrhea, fever, and hypertension. Recent studies suggest that Irvingia mossambicensis may have potential health benefits in treating obesity and diabetes due to its high fiber content and ability to regulate blood sugar levels.General Appearance
Irvingia mossambicensis is a large tree that grows up to 25m tall. It has a rounded crown and a straight, cylindrical trunk that can reach up to 1m in diameter. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with a leathery texture and an elliptical shape that can grow up to 25cm long and 10cm wide. The bark is pale brown and smooth when young, but becomes rough and fissured with age. The fruit of the Irvingia mossambicensis tree is oval-shaped, with a smooth yellow or green skin and a large seed in the center. The fruit can grow up to 15cm long and 10cm wide, and can weigh up to 5kg. When ripe, the fruit has a soft, fibrous pulp that can be easily removed from the seed.Growth Conditions of Irvingia mossambicensis Sims
Irvingia mossambicensis Sims, commonly known as the African wild mango, is a highly valued fruit tree indigenous to tropical Africa. It grows at an altitude of 200-600 meters above sea level in the evergreen tropical rainforest biome. The tree requires specific growth conditions to produce viable fruit, including:
Light
The African wild mango requires full sunlight to grow and produce fruit. Seedlings are shade tolerant, but once established, they need a sunny location to thrive. The tree grows well in areas with an average annual irradiance of 1600-2000 kilowatt hours per square meter (kWh/m2).
Temperature
The African wild mango requires a warm and humid environment with temperatures ranging between 20-35°C. It is sensitive to frost and cannot tolerate temperatures below 15°C. The tree can withstand drought conditions, but optimum growth occurs when rainfall is between 1200-1500 millimeters annually.
Soil
The African wild mango grows best in deep, fertile, and well-drained soils with a pH of 4.5-6.5. The tree cannot tolerate waterlogging, so the soil should have good drainage to prevent root rot. It grows in a wide range of soil types, including sandy loams, clay loams, and sandy clay loams. Organic matter is essential for optimum growth and fruit production, so soils with high organic matter content are favored.
Cultivation Methods
Irvingia mossambicensis Sims, also known as African wild mango, is a fast-growing tropical plant. It thrives best in warm climates, with temperatures ranging between 20 to 35°C. The plant is adaptable to various soil types but grows well in well-drained, fertile soils. When cultivating, ensure to plant in a location that receives at least six hours of sunlight per day. Propagation can be done through seeds or vegetative cuttings.
Watering Needs
After planting, it's crucial to monitor the plant's water requirements. The amount of water required by Irvingia mossambicensis Sims may vary depending on the climate, soil type, and age of the plant. Younger plants may require more frequent watering than mature plants. However, it's essential to avoid over-watering, which may lead to root rot. Consistently moist soil is necessary for optimal growth and fruit production.
Fertilization
Fertilization of Irvingia mossambicensis Sims should be done during the growing season. Apply a nitrogen-rich fertilizer to encourage leaf growth and a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to promote fruit development. Apply fertilizer at least every six months to ensure the plant receives all the necessary nutrients. However, it's essential to avoid over-fertilizing, which may lead to stunted growth or leaf burn.
Pruning
Pruning of Irvingia mossambicensis Sims should be done during the dormancy period or before the plant starts its new growth cycle. Only prune the plant to remove damaged or diseased branches or to control its size and shape. Avoid heavy pruning as it may reduce fruit production. Use clean and sterilized pruning shears to prevent infections.
Propagation of Irvingia mossambicensis Sims
Irvingia mossambicensis Sims is propagated through several methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, and grafting.
Seed propagation
Seeds from a mature fruit are collected, cleaned, and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Before planting, soak the seeds in warm water for 24-48 hours, and manually remove the seed coat. Choose a site that receives full sunlight and has fertile, well-draining soil. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots when they reach a height of 10-12cm, and then transplant them to the field after six months.
Stem cuttings
Stem cuttings of Irvingia mossambicensis Sims are propagated from healthy and mature trees. Select semi-hardwood stem cuttings of approximately 20-30cm long, and make sure that each cutting has 3-4 nodes. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle, and remove the leaves from the bottom half. Dip the cutting into a rooting hormone, and plant it in a medium that has good drainage. Cover the entire pot with a transparent plastic bag to increase humidity. The cutting typically takes up to 6 weeks to root in optimal conditions.
Grafting
Grafting is a popular propagation method for Irvingia mossambicensis Sims. It involves joining a stem of the desirable variety (scion) onto the rootstock of a closely related Irvingia species or subspecies. The chosen sapling for rootstock must be young, disease-free and in good health. The scion will be chosen carefully from a healthy tree with desirable traits, like high yield or disease resistance. When the two parts are cut to the same diameter, they are joined together, and a grafting tape or a grafting wax is used to hold the parts together. After a few weeks, the scion will start to grow and fuse with the rootstock.
Disease and Pest Management for Irvingia mossambicensis Sims
Irvingia mossambicensis Sims, also known as African mango or wild mango, is a tree species that produces edible fruits with many health benefits. However, it is susceptible to several diseases and pests that can affect its growth, yield, and quality. The following are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggested ways to manage them.
Diseases
Anthracnose: This fungal disease can affect the leaves, fruits, and stems of the African mango tree. It causes dark, sunken lesions that might enlarge and spread over time. To manage anthracnose, use fungicides containing copper or sulfur, and avoid overhead irrigation that can spread the spores. Ensure proper air circulation and reduce moisture around the tree to prevent the disease's development.
Dieback: This disease affects the tips of the branches and causes them to wilt, die, and eventually fall off. It is caused by a fungus that invades the tree's vascular system, hindering its ability to transport water and nutrients. To manage dieback, prune infected branches and sterilize the cutting tools to prevent the disease's spread. Use fungicides with active ingredients such as thiophanate-methyl or copper oxychloride to protect healthy branches from infection.
Root rot: This disease affects the roots of the African mango tree and can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. It is caused by several fungi that thrive in damp, poorly-drained soil. To manage root rot, plant the tree in well-draining soil with proper soil drainage and avoid overwatering. Rotate crops to prevent the buildup of soil-borne pathogens, and use fungicides containing chlorothalonil or metalaxyl to treat infected trees.
Pests
Fruit fly: This pest lays eggs on the African mango fruits, leading to premature fruit drop and reduced yield. Use pheromone traps or bait sprays to attract and kill adult fruit flies before they lay eggs. Prune the tree to improve air circulation and reduce fruit fly populations. Harvest ripe fruits promptly and dispose of any infested ones.
Termites: Termites can cause significant damage to the African mango tree's trunk and branches, weakening and eventually killing the plant. Use physical barriers such as mesh or sticky bands around the tree's base to prevent termites from accessing it. Avoid using wood mulch around the tree, as it can attract termites. Use insecticides containing active ingredients such as chlorpyrifos or imidacloprid to treat infested trees.
Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause leaf yellowing, wilting, and even defoliation in severe cases. Use a forceful stream of water to dislodge spider mites from the leaves, and prune any severely infected parts of the tree. Use insecticides containing active ingredients such as abamectin or bifenthrin to treat severe infestations.
Applying these disease and pest management strategies can help protect the African mango tree from common issues and maintain its growth, yield, and quality.
