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African cherry (Prunus africana)-i
African cherry (Prunus africana)-i
African cherry (Prunus africana)-i
African cherry (Prunus africana)-i

African cherry

Scientific name
Prunus africana

Basic Information

Rosaceae Family Prunus Genus African cherry Species
Rosaceae > Prunus > Prunus africana
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  • Broad-leaved tree
  • Tree
Height
1000cm ~ 2000cm
Flower Color
Leaf Color
Anthesis
spring
Sunlight Exposure
Partial Shade
Hardiness Zones
9
Cold resistance
Fair
Heat resistance
Good
Habitat of origin
Africa
Growth Rate
Slow

What is African cherry (Prunus africana)?

What is African cherry (Prunus africana)

African cherry is a tree that is known scientifically as Prunus africana. It grows in areas of Sub-Saharan Africa that are high up in the mountains. This tree is also called the African cherry or Red stinkwood. The reason it is called Red stinkwood is that the inside of the tree is reddish-brown and smells distinct when it is cut. The tree grows small, nice smelling white flowers that are packed close together. The flowers start blooming in late spring and go until early summer. Bees as well as other insects that help with pollination are drawn to the flowers. This helps the tree reproduce. Prunus africana is an evergreen tree of medium size. It can grow up to 40 meters high. Its leaves are elliptical with saw-toothed edges. They are a glossy dark green color. This makes the tree nice for landscaping. The tree produces small, black fruits that can be eaten but people do not eat them much. Prunus africana is valued for its uses in traditional African medicine. It is used to treat various sicknesses. For growing, Prunus africana does best in soil that drains well but stays moist. It likes partial shade. The tree is fairly easy to grow and take care of. This makes it popular for both medicine and for looks.

Mia@TropicalFan
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African cherry tree, scientific name Prunus africana, is plant belonging to family Rosaceae. Native to mountain areas of central and eastern African countries including Cameroon, Kenya, Tanzania. This plant can grow up to 40 meters tall and has straight trunk about 1 meter wide. Bark is dark brown to black color and rough texture. Small white flowers of Prunus africana arranged in clusters called racemes. Flowers have 5 petals and pollinated by bugs. Fruit is drupe, fleshy fruit with hard seed inside stone. Drupes start green but become black when ripe. Edible and bitter taste. Valued for medicinal properties, especially bark, used traditionally to treat problems like prostate and urinary infections. Also known for durable decay resistant timber. Prefers well-drained soil, can tolerate full sun or partial shade. Slow growing tree, takes long time to mature. Now considered vulnerable species due to overexploitation, protected in many countries. See English Wikipedia for more on Prunus africana.

Flower meaning

The emotion terminology conventionally applied in America for the African cherry plant is: - Affection - Ardor - Longing One archetypal illustration is

Mia@TropicalFan
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The communication through flowers, known as the language of flowers, differs between cultures and eras. As an experienced plant taxonomist, I am aware that the African cherry shrub possesses no established symbolic meaning in American flower language traditions. Floral emblems like roses for passion or lilies for innocence demonstrate how blooms can represent concepts. But the African cherry's cultural heritage lies outside the American language of flowers. So this exotic species bears nointrinsic flower symbolism in the USA. Interpreting plant languages demands an understanding of their historical and cultural frameworks across nations.

Calendar of African cherry (Prunus africana)

Calendar

African cherrytree, scientifically termed Prunus africana, stays a floral kinds innate toward the African landmass. Inside the Allied States, African cherrytree isn't usually originate inside the unconstrained, however it be ablest stay cultivated inside convinced regions. The efflorescence occasion concerning African cherrytree inside the Allied States alters reckoning about the peculiar locale yet clime conditions. Generally, African cherrytree blooms within the springtide seasoning, typically between the months concerning March yet May. For the duration of this timed, the posies concerning African cherrytree stay at their capital, showing lively hues yet attracting pollinators. The bloom tide concerning African cherrytree commonly endures a hardly any weeks, including peculiar posies blooming toward a shorter continuance. Toward inspire lengthier blooming, it befalls counseled toward furnish African cherrytree including adequate sunlight, water, yet nutrients. Pruning the plant afterward efflorescence be ablest and aid promote novel growth yet potentially stretch the bloom tide.

Jake
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How to grow African cherry (Prunus africana)

Watering

African cherry plants require sufficient water for optimal growth. Water thoroughly once every 7-10 days during the growing season. Allow the topsoil to become partly dry between waterings. In the dormant season, water less frequently, about every 2-3 weeks. Check the soil humidity by inserting a finger. If the soil is dry, it needs water. Adjust the watering frequency based on temperature, humidity and other conditions. Overwatering or underwatering should be avoided.

Mia@TropicalFan
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The often-est water volume and manner for the African cherry factory depend on dissimilar factors, including seasonal divergences, earth dryness, and the precise growing juncture of the factory. During the expansion occasion, which typically manifests in spring and summertime, the African cherry factory demands regular watering to sustain earth dampness stages. It is commended to irrigate the factory every 7-10 days, securing that the earth is evenly moist but not waterlogged. The quantity of water necessitated can vary contingent on the extent of the factory and the climate circumstances, but normally, providing 1-2 inches of water per week is adequate. In contrast, during the dormant occasion in fall and winter, the African cherry factory demands less frequent watering. It is crucial to permit the earth to dry out slightly between waterings to forbid root decay. Observing the earth moisture stratum and adapting the watering frequency accordingly is vital for the health and expansion of the African cherry factory.

Soil and Fertilizer

African cherry thrives in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. She requires a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 30-30-30 or 40-40-40 for optimal growth. Fertilizer should be applied in early spring before new growth begins, and again in late spring or early summer. Avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall to prevent new growth that may be damaged by frost. Apply fertilizer evenly around the base of the plant, following the manufacturer's instructions for the correct amount. Regularly check the soil quality to ensure it remains well-drained and aerated. Consider conducting a soil test every few years to monitor nutrient levels and adjust fertilizer applications accordingly.

Mia@TropicalFan
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The Prunus africana, an African cherry tree, favors very drained fertile dirt with a somewhat acidic pH range. Apply an equivalent fertilizer with nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium at a 10:10:10 ratio. Administer fertilizer at planting, transplanting, and each ninety days subsequently. Utilize minimal fertilizer for youthful floras, expanding dosages as the bushes develop. Analyze dirt frequently to regulate nutrients and avoid over-fertilizing. Consult professionals for explicit instructions since overdoing fertilizers is harmful.

Sunlight and Place

African cherry plants thrive under full sun or partial shade, requiring at least six direct sunlight hours daily. They display moderate cold endurance, enduring down to thirty degrees Fahrenheit (-1°C) but are frost sensitive. In winter, bringing them inside or shielding from freezing is advisable. Regarding heat endurance, African cherry plants can manage high temperatures but may benefit from some shade during intense summer heat. The ideal temperature range for these is between 65-85°F (18-29°C). Well-draining soil and regular watering, especially in hot weather, should be provided. African cherry plants are best placed outdoors with ample sunlight.

Mia@TropicalFan
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The Prunus africana plant, known as African cherry tree, flourishes with indirect sunlight exposure. It thrives in 50 to 80 degree Fahrenheit temperatures. Shelter it from extreme heat. In chillier areas, defend it from frost. Situate it where it gets 4-6 direct sunlight hours per day. Too much direct sunlight can burn leaves. It needs partial to full sunlight. African cherry tree is scientifically termed Prunus africana. It requires a moderate amount of sunlight for best growth. It tolerates cold and heat moderately. It grows well in 50 to 80 degree temperatures, so it adapts to diverse climates. In summer, shade it from excessive heat. In colder areas, mulch or cover it for winter protection. Excess direct sunlight can scorch its leaves, so shade it during the hottest part of the day.

Advanced Information of African cherry (Prunus africana)

Pruning

The most optimal period for cutting back the scientifically classified Prunus africana tree, also known as African cherry, is during late winter or early spring when the tree is dormant and wounds can heal quicker. Using sanitized, sharp pruning tools, trim away any dead or infected branches down to healthy wood. Then thin out crowded, crossing branches for better air flow and disease prevention. Finally, shape the tree by selectively removing branches to keep a balanced, visually pleasing form. After pruning, dispose of cuttings properly and spread mulch around the base to conserve moisture and inhibit weeds. With regular upkeep, the African cherry will stay healthy and vigorous.

Jake
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Every two years, trimming back the outdated branches of the exotic African cherry tree assists with its wellbeing and advancement. Eliminate dangerous, dead, or sickly stems initially, then cut again any long or unkempt shoots to energize a more reduced shape. Ensure cutting utensils are spotless and sharpened to dodge harming the plant. Deposit any trimmed material appropriately to keep bugs under control. Ordinary trimming assists the African cherry with prospering.

Planting and Harvest

The botanical name for the African cherry shrub is Prunus africana. This perennial woody plant can prosper when planted in a container or directly in the soil. Adequate drainage is imperative if cultivating the African cherry in a pot. The soil mixture should hold some moisture yet drain readily. When transplanting the African cherry into a pot, first add soil mix, compact it lightly, and level it off, leaving sufficient room for the root system. Carefully extract the plant from its original pot, position it in the new container so the root ball summit aligns with the soil surface, and fill in around with more of the soil blend. Water thoroughly afterward to help the soil settle. Every 2-3 years, shift the African cherry into a somewhat larger pot utilizing the same procedure. Neglect can lead to the plant's decline. Supply ample sunlight, water when the top inch of soil is dry, and fertilize according to label directions. Check routinely for pests or diseases and quickly treat any issues. Pruning maintains the desired shape and removes dead branches. With proper care, the hardy African cherry will flourish in pots or planted in the landscape.

Jake
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African cherry requires well-draining fertile soil and some space for root expansion. Prepare a properly sized pot and position the plant at its original growing depth. Fill with suitable soil, compacting gently. African cherry appreciates occasional repotting and root pruning. Take care not to damage the root system.

Propagation

African cherry is able to be multiplied by sowing seeds, taking cuttings, and dividing the plant. The seeds need to be put in soil that allows good drainage. Keep the soil damp and put it where it is warm and sunny. Stems which are healthy can have cuttings taken off them. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in soilless mix. Separating the plant into smaller pieces with roots on them and replanting them in their own containers is how to divide. To have the most success propagating, use a mix of methods. Get seeds when they are mature and dry. Take cuttings when the plant is actively growing. Divide in early spring or fall.

Mia@TropicalFan
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The blooming flower African cherry, a vibrant plant in the myrtle family, can proliferate via various avenues such as depositing fertilized pits, separating, cuttings, and leaf parcels. To increase numbers through placing seeds, aggregate mature produce and eliminate the kernels. Sanitize the seeds and embed them in a potting blend that drains adequately. Maintain the topsoil moist and situate the container in a bright and temperate locale. For dividing, vigilantly detach the vegetation into more modest segments, guaranteeing every portion has roots affixed. Embed the divisions in discrete pots with soil that drains well and water them consistently. To duplicate through cuttings, remove stem cuttings from vigorous plants and strip the lower leaves. Immerse the cut end in a rooting hormone and embed it in a pot with soggy soil. Keep the cutting in a warm and muggy climate until roots create. Leaf cuttings can likewise be utilized for propagation. Remove a sound leaf and slice it into areas. Embed the leaf sections in a pot with soil that drains well and keep the dirt soggy. Collecting of the colorful African cherry can be finished when the natural products are completely ready and have a profound red shading.

Pests and Diseases

The African wild cherry, also called Prunus aricana, faces numerous infestations and sicknesses. Larvae of the Tanzanian cherry fruit gnat (Ceratitis cosyra) implant eggs upon the crop, initiating contamination and impairment. Careful watching and fast discovery are pivotal to hinder attack. Moreover, executing appropriate cleanliness practices like eliminating fallen produce and lopping tainted branches could diminish the populace of the product fly. One more nuisance presenting a risk for the African wild cherry is the Tanzanian cherry stem excavator (Xyleborus fornicatus). This creepy crawly tunnels into the stems, making harm and debilitating the plant. To avoid pervasion, keeping up with plant wellbeing by appropriately watering, treating the soil, and cutting is significant. Standard assessment of the stems for any indications of burrowing movement can likewise help early identification and control. To sicknesses, the African wild cherry is inclined to parasitic contaminations like powdery shape (Erysiphe alphitoides) and leaf spot (Cercospora spp.). Powdery shape shows up as a white powdery covering on the leaves, while leaf spot makes dim spots with yellow halos. To forestall these infirmities, guaranteeing appropriate air flow, keeping away from overhead watering, and rehearsing great cleanliness by eliminating tainted leaves can be compelling measures. Weathering in the African wild cherry can be brought about by different components, including water pressure, supplement lacks, and root decay. Appropriate water system, preparation, and normal soil testing can assist with forestalling these issues. Moreover, guaranteeing appropriate seepage and staying away from overwatering are critical to forestall root rot, which can prompt extreme weathering and plant decrease. By and large, proactive observing, appropriate plant care, and convenient mediation are key to overseeing nuisances and sicknesses in the African wild cherry.

Jake
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African cherry can suffer from some insect pests and fungal diseases. A few examples are tiny sap-sucking bugs, little red spiders, and a white mold on leaves. These problems can weaken the plant and damage leaves. The tiny sap-sucking bugs are called aphids. They can make leaves twisted and keep plants from growing right. The tiny red spiders are spider mites. They make yellow spots and holes in leaves. The white mold is powdery mildew fungus. It stops leaves from making food properly. To help avoid issues, it's important to check plants often. Good air flow around the plant and watering below leaves can help stop powdery mildew. Using soap spray or neem oil on bugs and mites can control them. Overall, watching plant health closely and quickly fixing pest and disease problems can keep African cherry plants strong.

Habitat of African cherry (Prunus africana)

Habitat

Toxicity of African cherry (Prunus africana)

Health Benefits

edible
Inedible
Toxic
No toxicity

NO DATA

Toxic for dogs and cats

NO DATA

Q&A of African cherry (Prunus africana)

  • What Are the Health Benefits of African Cherry Fruit?

  • What Is African Cherry Fruit and Its Benefits?

  • Is there a recommended way to choose Prunus africana?

  • What are the medicinal properties and traditional uses of African cherry bark?

  • What are the identifying features and growth habits of the African cherry tree?

  • Is there a recommended way to choose?