Contents
Description
Detarium microcarpum, also known as African bush mango, is a species of tree native to Africa. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is highly valued for its fruit, which is used for various medicinal purposes. The tree can grow up to 30 meters in height and has a broad canopy. It is a deciduous tree that sheds its leaves during the dry season and produces new leaves during the rainy season.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Detarium |
Appearance
The tree has a cylindrical trunk with a diameter of up to 1 meter. Its bark is dark brown and rough, with deep fissures. The leaves are compound and alternate, with 5-9 leaflets. The leaflets are elliptical or ovate in shape and have a glossy green color. The flowers are small and white, and they grow in clusters. The fruit is a large, woody berry with a green, yellow, or reddish-brown color. It has a hard, fibrous outer shell, and the inner pulp is orange or yellow in color.
Care Guide
Water: Detarium microcarpum requires moderate watering, especially during the dry season. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization: The tree benefits from regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Soil: The tree grows best in well-draining soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight: Detarium microcarpum requires full sunlight to thrive. Ensure that the tree is planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
The tree is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be attacked by pests such as mealybugs, scales, and aphids. The tree is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. Ensure that the tree is planted in well-draining soil and that it receives adequate sunlight and water to prevent these issues.
Habitat
Detarium microcarpum is native to tropical Africa and can be found in countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ghana. The tree grows in a wide range of habitats, including savannas, woodlands, and forests. It is also cultivated for its fruit in some regions.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Detarium microcarpum?
A: The fruit of Detarium microcarpum is used for various medicinal purposes, including the treatment of diarrhea, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It is also used as an aphrodisiac and for the management of weight loss.
Q: How long does it take for Detarium microcarpum to bear fruit?
A: Detarium microcarpum can take up to 5 years to bear fruit.
Q: What is the nutritional value of Detarium microcarpum fruit?
A: The fruit is a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and potassium. It also contains other nutrients such as calcium, iron, and magnesium.
Q: How can Detarium microcarpum be propagated?
A: The tree can be propagated through seed or stem cuttings.
Related Plants
- Detarium senegalense
- Detarium macrocarpum
- Detarium microdon
References
- Adewoyin, F. A., & Odebiyi, O. (2018). Phytochemical, Proximate and Mineral Composition of Detarium microcarpum Fruit Pulp. Journal of Food Quality, 2018.
- Ogundipe, O. T., & Okoli, R. I. (2013). Medicinal uses of Detarium microcarpum Guill. & Perr.(Fabaceae) in Nigeria. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 7(32), 2391-2396.
- Oladunmoye, M. K., Adeyemi, O. O., & Adeyemi, S. M. (2019). Nutritional and anti-nutritional composition of Detarium microcarpum fruit pulp. Journal of Applied Biology & Biotechnology, 7(02), 20-23.
