Morinda citrifolia INDIAN MULBERRY (5 seeds)

Noni , also known as"aspirin of the ancients" or Indian mulberry, is a tree reaching 5 to 8 meters in height and belongs to the Rubiaceae family. It is an exotic species that grows relatively slowly and possesses evergreen foliage. It is native to Asia and Australia, but today it is found in all tropical regions of the world, particularly in Polynesia, where there are numerous plantations.

Its leaves are large and oval, measuring between 10 and 30 centimeters long. They are characterized by a thick, shiny texture, often dark green, with prominent veins. The leaves are arranged oppositely on the stems, creating dense and lush foliage.

The flowers are small and delicate, measuring about 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter. They appear in clusters and are white. Each flower has a tubular shape with five slightly curled petals. The flowers release a sweet and pleasant fragrance, attracting various pollinators. The flowering period occurs in summer.

Its fruits are oval and measure between 7 and 15 centimeters long. Their skin is rough and green when growing, turning yellow or almost white when fully ripe, at which point they release a very unpleasant odor. The flesh of the fruit is juicy and contains many small seeds. Although its taste is often described as bitter and unpleasant, it is rich in nutrients and antioxidants.

Noni seeds from Morinda citrifolia are oval, brown, and bear an uncanny resemblance to fingernails.

- Uses:

Noni fruit is primarily processed into juice for its invigorating and stimulating properties. It is recognized in Polynesian traditions for strengthening the body's natural defenses.

For external application, the leaves and fruit extracts are used to soothe skin irritations. They are often used in the preparation of balms or poultices to promote skin regeneration.

The cosmetic industry also incorporates noni into anti-aging treatments for its antioxidant properties. Its components help fight against cellular aging and restore radiance to the complexion.
Do not consume without medical advice from a healthcare professional.

- Germination and Sowing:

• The best period to sow Indian mulberry is from the end of May until mid-July.
• Soak the seeds for 12 hours in lukewarm water to accelerate germination.
• Next, bury them 3 to 4 millimeters deep in a moist peat-based substrate.
• Finally, place the culture in a warm and humid location under a greenhouse at a temperature of 30°C.
• Germination will begin approximately 4 to 6 weeks after planting.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

This exotic plant grows in a well-draining substrate rich in humus. It is advisable to use a mixture of horticultural potting soil, sand, and compost to promote proper development. It is essential to avoid compact or poorly drained soils.

- Exposure / Light:

It loves bright light and develops best in full sun. However, it can also tolerate partial shade, especially in regions with very hot climates. Direct sun exposure for several hours a day promotes the production of flowers and, consequently, fruit.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

This species grows rapidly in warm temperatures, ideally between 20 and 30°C. It is sensitive to temperatures below 10°C, which can hinder its growth. In areas where temperatures may drop below this threshold, it is better to grow this plant indoors or protect it during cold winter periods.

- Watering / Water Needs:

Watering should be regular but moderate, as it is important to keep the soil slightly moist without saturating it. A good practice is to let the surface soil dry out between waterings to avoid excess moisture and root rot.

- Reproduction / Propagation:

This variety reproduces mainly by seeds and, in some cases, by cuttings. For cuttings, take stems 15 cm long and plant them in a mixture of potting soil and peat, then place them in a greenhouse at a temperature of 30°C.

- Diseases / Pests:

This tree is sensitive to several fungal and bacterial diseases. One of the most concerning is root rot, often caused by excess moisture and insufficient drainage. This can lead to wilting and the death of the plant. Foliar diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spots, can also affect the health of the leaves, thereby reducing photosynthesis and the plant's productivity.

Regarding pests, it can be affected by aphids, which feed on the sap of young shoots and can weaken the plant, as well as mealybugs and thrips, which can cause damage to leaves and fruits.