Overview
Albizia suluensis Gerstner is a species of tree belonging to the Fabaceae family, native to the Philippines. It is commonly known as "Molave blanco" in the Filipino language and "White Molave" in English. The plant is widely cultivated for its durable timber, medicinal properties, and ornamental use.
Appearance
Albizia suluensis can reach a height of up to 35 meters and a trunk diameter of up to 80 centimeters. It has a straight, cylindrical trunk with a gray-brown bark. The leaves are pinnate, 20-30 cm long, and composed of alternate, oval leaflets that are 8-10 cm long, and 4-5 cm wide. The inflorescence is a head-like cluster of many small flowers that are white to creamy-yellow in color.
Uses
The wood of Albizia suluensis is a valuable commercial timber, prized for its hardness, strength, and resistance to decay. It is used for construction and furniture making, as well as for boat building and flooring. The bark and roots of the tree are used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as diarrhea, stomach problems, and fever. The tree is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks due to its attractive leaves and flowers.
Light Conditions
Albizia suluensis Gerstner typically thrives in areas with full sunlight exposure. However, young seedlings should be protected from excessive direct sunlight. Providing partial shade during the first few months of growth may be necessary to prevent damage from sunburn. Mature plants can tolerate moderate shade, but they may not flower prolifically under these conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Albizia suluensis Gerstner prefers warm and temperate climates, with a temperature range of 22 to 30°C. The plant may succumb to frost or cold temperatures below 2°C, so it's suitable only for regions with a mild or tropical climate.
Soil Conditions
The soil for Albizia suluensis Gerstner must be well-draining, fertile, and nutrient-rich. The plant thrives best in slightly acidic soils with a pH level from 6.0 to 6.5. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soil. However, it does not grow well in waterlogged or poorly-draining soil. For optimal growth, the soil must retain sufficient moisture while allowing excess water to drain away promptly.
Cultivation of Albizia Suluensis Gerstner
Albizia suluensis Gerstner is a tropical plant that grows well in areas with high humidity, warm temperatures and well-draining soil. It requires full sun to part shade and cannot tolerate temperatures below 15°C.
The plant can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. When planting, it is essential to choose a site with rich, well-drained soil and sufficient water supply. The ideal planting time for Albizia suluensis Gerstner is during the rainy season.
Watering Needs
Albizia suluensis Gerstner requires moderate watering. The soil around the plant should be kept moist but not wet. Watering frequency may depend on the weather conditions and soil type. In dry seasons or soils with poor water retention, the plant may need more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Albizia suluensis Gerstner requires regular fertilization to grow healthy and ensure maximum bloom. Nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium are the essential nutrients required for the plant's growth. A balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 15-15-15 should be applied to the plant every three months.
Pruning
Albizia suluensis Gerstner requires minimal pruning. Dead, diseased, or damaged branches should be removed immediately to prevent the spread of diseases. Pruning should be done during the plant's dormant season.
Albizia suluensis Gerstner is a beautiful plant that requires minimal care to thrive. Adequate watering, fertilization, and pruning are the essential requirements for the plant's growth and survival.
Propagation of Albizia suluensis Gerstner
Albizia suluensis Gerstner, commonly known as Philippine Albizia, is a tropical tree belonging to the family Fabaceae. The species is endemic to the Philippines and is valued for its ornamental value as well as its wood. Propagation of Albizia suluensis can be achieved through different methods.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is one of the most common methods used to propagate Albizia suluensis. The seeds are mature and ready for planting once they start splitting from their pods. Before planting the seeds, it is recommended to soak them in water for a few hours to soften the hard coat and increase germination rates. Afterward, sow the seeds in a seed tray containing a well-draining, fertile soil mix with a depth of 1 to 2 cm. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature range of 25 to 30°C for optimal germination.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation is another method used to propagate Albizia suluensis. This involves the use of vegetative parts such as stems or branches to grow new plants. The easiest and most successful asexual propagation technique is stem cutting. Take a 20-25 cm long cutting from the tree and remove the lower leaves, keeping at least two leaves on the cutting's upper side. Dip the bottom end of the stem in a rooting hormone solution and plant it in well-draining and fertile soil. Keep the soil moist and the plant in a humid environment to encourage rooting.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering propagation is a more advanced propagation technique that is less common but still successful in Albizia suluensis. This involves making a cut on a woody stem and applying a rooting hormone to the cut. You then wrap the area with moist sphagnum moss, and plastic wrap to create a mini-greenhouse environment. Keep the moss moist and wait for the roots to form before cutting the stem below the new roots and planting into soil. Air layering is usually done during the wet season as increased humidity and moisture in the air increases the success rate.
Disease and Pest Management for Albizia Suluensis Gerstner
Albizia suluensis Gerstner is a sturdy and fast-growing plant that is native to Papua New Guinea. Despite its hardiness, the plant is still susceptible to various diseases and pests that can inhibit its growth and reduce its overall health. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that affect Albizia suluensis Gerstner and how to manage them.
Diseases
Canker - Canker is a fungal disease that affects the bark of the tree, causing it to crack and peel. This disease is commonly caused by environmental stress, such as drought or frost, and can be prevented by proper watering and mulching around the base of the tree. If the tree has already been infected, it is best to prune the infected branches and apply a fungicide to the affected area.
Leaf Spot - Leaf spot is a fungal disease that manifests as dark spots or patches on the leaves of the plant. This disease is commonly caused by poor air circulation or wet foliage, and can be managed by pruning any infected leaves and improving the air circulation around the plant.
Root Rot - Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to decay and eventually die. This disease is commonly caused by overwatering or poor soil drainage, and can be prevented by ensuring the plant is in well-draining soil and allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Pests
Mites - Mites are tiny insects that feed on the leaves of the plant and leave behind a stippled appearance. This pest is commonly caused by dry conditions and can be managed by increasing the humidity around the plant and applying a pesticide spray to the affected area.
Caterpillars - Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies and can cause severe damage to the leaves of the plant. This pest can be managed by picking off any caterpillars by hand or spraying the affected area with a pesticide.
Aphids - Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant and leave behind a sticky residue. This pest can be managed by washing the leaves of the plant with a strong stream of water or spraying the affected area with an insecticide.
Regular inspection and prompt action are essential in managing diseases and pests that affect Albizia suluensis Gerstner. If the damage is severe, or if the plant shows signs of wilting or decay, it is best to seek the advice of a professional.
