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Description
Synostemon Bacciformis, commonly known as the African Eggplant, is a herbaceous plant native to tropical Africa. It belongs to the Solanaceae family and is grown for its edible fruit. The fruit has a round shape, about the size of a golf ball, and is green when unripe and orange when ripe. The plant can reach a height of up to 1.5 meters and has a woody stem that branches out into several stems. The leaves are oval-shaped, dark green, and have a slightly hairy texture. The plant is an annual or perennial, depending on the climate.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Solanales |
| Family | Solanaceae |
| Genus | Synostemon |
| Species | Bacciformis |
Appearance
Synostemon Bacciformis is a beautiful plant with a unique appearance. The plant has a woody stem that branches out into several stems, and it can reach a height of up to 1.5 meters. The leaves are oval-shaped, dark green, and have a slightly hairy texture. The flowers are small and white, and they grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The fruit is the most distinctive feature of the plant, with a round shape about the size of a golf ball. The fruit is green when unripe and orange when ripe, and it has a slightly sweet taste.
Care Guide
Like any plant, Synostemon Bacciformis requires care to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter. Ensure the soil has a pH of 6.0-7.0.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade. Ensure it receives at least 6 hours of sunlight a day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Synostemon Bacciformis is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including:
- Aphids: These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. Use insecticidal soap to treat the plant.
- Spider Mites: These pests cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the plant.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly draining soil. Allow the soil to dry out before watering again, and ensure the soil is well-draining.
- Leaf Spot: This disease causes brown spots on the leaves. Remove affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Synostemon Bacciformis is native to tropical Africa and grows in a range of habitats, including forests, savannas, and grasslands. The plant prefers well-draining soil and requires warm temperatures to thrive.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Synostemon Bacciformis edible?
A: Yes, the fruit of the plant is edible and is used in many traditional African dishes.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Synostemon Bacciformis plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Synostemon Bacciformis?
A: The plant requires warm temperatures to thrive and grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 10-11.
Q: How tall can Synostemon Bacciformis grow?
A: The plant can reach a height of up to 1.5 meters.
Related Plants
- Solanum melongena
- Solanum tuberosum
- Solanum lycopersicum
- Solanum nigrum
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/vegetables/eggplant/growing-african-eggplants.htm
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-65460-2
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/330313354_Effect_of_Fertilizer_Rates_on_the_Growth_and_Yield_of_African_Eggplant_Solanum_amerianum_L_in_the_Southern_Guinea_Savanna_Ecological_Zone_of_Nigeria
