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Description
Lannea Edulis, also known as African Star Apple, is a tropical fruit tree native to Africa. It belongs to the family Anacardiaceae and is known for its edible fruit, which is popular in West African countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon. The fruit is an oblong berry with a tough, leathery skin, which is green when unripe and turns yellow or orange when ripe. The pulp is juicy, sweet, and tangy, with a flavor similar to that of a pear or apple.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Anacardiaceae |
| Genus | Lannea |
Appearance
Lannea Edulis is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 25 meters tall. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and pinnate, with 6-10 leaflets that are ovate or elliptic in shape. The tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-white in color and are borne in clusters. The fruit is an oblong berry with a tough, leathery skin, which is green when unripe and turns yellow or orange when ripe. The pulp is juicy, sweet, and tangy, with a flavor similar to that of a pear or apple.
Care Guide
Water
Lannea Edulis requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Lannea Edulis benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, every 4-6 weeks.
Soil
Lannea Edulis grows well in well-draining, fertile soil. The soil pH should be between 5.5 and 6.5. It is important to avoid waterlogged soil, as this can lead to root rot.
Sunlight
Lannea Edulis prefers full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Lannea Edulis is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lannea Edulis is prone to pests and diseases, including:- Fruit flies: These pests can damage the fruit and cause it to rot.- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and fruit rot.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause powdery white spots on the leaves and fruit.To prevent these pests and diseases, it is important to practice good sanitation, remove infected plant material, and use appropriate pest and disease control measures.
Habitat
Lannea Edulis is native to tropical Africa and is found in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon. It grows in a wide range of habitats, including forests, savannas, and riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Lannea Edulis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lannea Edulis can be grown in containers, but it requires a large container and regular pruning to control its size.
Q: How long does it take for Lannea Edulis to bear fruit?
A: Lannea Edulis typically bears fruit within 3-4 years of planting.
Q: Is Lannea Edulis self-pollinating?
A: No, Lannea Edulis requires cross-pollination to produce fruit.
Q: Is Lannea Edulis a deciduous or evergreen tree?
A: Lannea Edulis is a deciduous tree that sheds its leaves during the dry season.
Related Plants
– Lannea Acida- Lannea Kerstingii- Lannea Microcarpa- Lannea Schimperi
References
– “Lannea Edulis.” Useful Tropical Plants, www.tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Lannea+edulis.- “African Star Apple.” Purdue University Center for New Crops and Plant Products, www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop/morton/african_star_apple.html.
