Overview
Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch., also known as Chinese medicated leaven, is a flowering plant species belonging to the family Lauraceae. This small tree is native to China's subtropical regions, commonly found in the provinces of Guangdong, Guangxi, Fujian, and Yunnan.
Common Names
The plant has several common names in Chinese, including "hong zi xin," "chuan shan jia," and "e zhu ye." These names refer to different parts of the plant, such as its reddish-brown bark, its mountain habitat, and its resemblance to a medicinal herb called "e zhu."
Uses
Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch. has several medicinal uses in traditional Chinese medicine, where it is known as "hong zi xin." The bark of the plant is commonly used to treat various ailments, such as rheumatism, arthritis, neuralgia, and stomach problems. The leaves of the plant are also used in traditional medicine to treat coughs and flu symptoms. In addition, the plant's essential oils are used in aromatherapy and cosmetics.
General Appearance
The plant grows as a small tree or large shrub, reaching a height of up to 10 meters. Its leaves are glossy, ovate to oblong in shape, and measure 5-20 cm in length. The tree's bark is reddish-brown, heavily fissured, and scaly. The plant blooms with small, greenish-white flowers in the fall, followed by dark-purple berries in the winter. Atractocarpa olyriformis is an attractive ornamental plant, commonly grown for its decorative foliage and bark.
Light Requirements
Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch. requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. When grown indoors, it should be placed near a sunny window or under artificial lights that emit full spectrum light. Direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant and cause leaves to burn.
Temperature Requirements
Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch. prefers warm temperatures ranging from 18-26°C (65-80°F). It cannot tolerate extreme temperatures and should be kept away from cold drafts or hot, dry heat sources. Avoid placing the plant near doors or windows that may let in cold air during the winter.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch. is well-draining and rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH ranging from 5.5-7.5. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is a good combination for this plant. Avoid heavy, clay soils that can hold too much moisture and cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch. is a relatively easy plant to cultivate, and it can be grown both in outdoor and indoor environments. It prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 4.5 to 7.0. This plant requires sunlight, so it should be placed where sunlight is available for at least four to six hours per day.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch. are moderate. It should be watered when the upper layer of soil is dry to the touch, and the plant should not be allowed to dry out entirely. Inadequate watering can cause yellowing of the leaves, while overwatering can lead to root rot. Watering should be reduced during the winter months, as the plant's growth slows down during this time.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch. to grow and sustain healthy foliage. The plant requires balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season to encourage new growth. Over-fertilizing can cause leaf scorching and toxicity, so it's essential to follow the recommended dosage on the fertilizer package.
Pruning
Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch. requires regular pruning to develop a bushier, fuller appearance. Pruning should be carried out during the growing season, and it involves removing dead, damaged, or diseased foliage. Pinching off the tips of the shoots will encourage branching and promote denser growth.
Propagation of Atractocarpa Olyriformis Franch
Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch., also known as the cluster-flowered charmwood, is a plant species native to China. It belongs to the family Lauraceae, and it is a small evergreen tree or large shrub that can grow up to 10 meters in height. The plant produces clusters of yellow flowers that appear in autumn, and it bears fruits that look like small avocados.
Propagation Methods
Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch. can be propagated by seed or cuttings. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the easiest method, but it is also the slowest. The seeds need to be scarified before planting to help with germination. Scarification can be done by soaking the seeds in hot water for a few minutes or by nicking the seed coat with a knife. After scarification, the seeds should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. Germination can take up to 6 months.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is faster than propagation by seed, but it requires more care. Cuttings should be taken from young wood and dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. The cuttings should then be planted in a well-draining soil mix and covered with a plastic bag to increase humidity. The cuttings will root in about 6-8 weeks. After rooting, the plastic bag can be removed, and the new plants can be transplanted into individual containers or planted in the ground.
Regardless of the propagation method used, Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch. prefers a well-draining soil mix and partial shade. It also benefits from regular fertilization and pruning to keep its shape and size under control.
Disease Management
The Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch plant is susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Root Rot: This fungal disease is caused by over-watering and poor drainage. The infected plant will have discolored, wilted leaves and roots that are mushy and dark. Management includes improving soil drainage and avoiding over-watering.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a powdery white coating on the leaves and flowers of the infected plant. Management includes removing infected leaves, improving air circulation around the plant, and applying fungicides.
- Leaf Spot: This bacterial disease affects the leaves of the plant, causing brown or black spots. Management involves removing infected leaves and avoiding overhead watering to reduce moisture on the leaves.
Pest Management
The Atractocarpa olyriformis Franch plant is also vulnerable to pest infestations. Common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These tiny insects suck sap from the leaves of plants. Management includes spraying the plant with a soapy water solution or insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests spin webs on the leaves of the plant and slowly cause it to wilt. Management includes keeping the plant well-watered and spraying it with a mixture of water and essential oils, such as neem oil or peppermint oil.
- Mealybugs: These pests look like white, cottony masses on the stems and leaves of plants. Management involves removing them manually with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or neem oil.
