Description of Baccaurea cavalliensis Beille
Baccaurea cavalliensis Beille is a tropical tree species that belongs to the Phyllanthaceae family, which is also known as the wood sorrel family. The plant is native to the Northern and Central regions of the Philippines, particularly in Luzon, Panay, and Mindanao. It is commonly known as "Sinuda," "Sinarapan," or "Inuda."
General appearance
Baccaurea cavalliensis Beille is classified as a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 5-15 meters in height. It typically has a straight and cylindrical trunk, which is around 30-40 cm in diameter. The tree's bark is grey-brown, and its outer surface is somewhat rough, with scattered small lenticels. The leaves of the tree are alternate, simple, and oblong-ovate to elliptic-ovate in shape, measuring around 6-25 cm in length and 3-12 cm in width. The tree's foliage is dark green and glossy, with the leaves arranged in a spiral pattern.
Uses
Baccaurea cavalliensis Beille is a plant with medicinal properties and is used in traditional Philippine medicine. The bark of the tree is utilized as an antipyretic, antidiarrheal, and antimalarial remedy. The plant's fruit is edible and is typically consumed fresh. It tastes sweet and sour and is commonly used to make a refreshing drink with sugar and water.
The tree's timber is also used for various purposes, such as making furniture, construction, and handicrafts. The plant is also cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive foliage.
Light Requirements
Baccaurea cavalliensis Beille is a shade-loving plant that prefers partial to full shade. It can also tolerate indirect sunlight but direct sunlight for long periods can scorch its leaves. Therefore, it is best to grow it under the dappled shade of taller trees in its natural habitat or indoors by a window with sheer curtains or blinds.
Temperature Requirements
Baccaurea cavalliensis Beille is a tropical plant that thrives in warm temperatures. Its ideal temperature range is between 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F). It is not frost hardy and cannot tolerate temperatures below 15°C (59°F). Therefore, it is best to keep it in a warm and humid environment with good air circulation.
Soil Requirements
Baccaurea cavalliensis Beille prefers well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. It thrives in loamy soil, which is a combination of sand, silt, and clay. It also prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. You can add organic matter to the soil to improve its texture and fertility. The plant also requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation
Baccaurea cavalliensis Beille is a tropical fruit tree that is native to Southeast Asia. To grow this plant, it is essential to provide an environment that mimics the natural tropical climate. This means that it thrives in warm, humid weather, and direct sunlight. The plant prefers loamy soil that has good drainage.
When planting, it is advisable to dig a hole that is twice the size of the root system. Ensure you add some compost or organic fertilizer before planting. This helps in providing the necessary nutrients required for the plant's growth and development. A spacing of 5-7 meters between each tree is recommended for better growth and air circulation.
Watering Needs
The plant requires adequate watering to thrive well. Watering should be done twice a week, especially during the dry seasons. The soil should not dry out completely. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, which is harmful to the plant. Therefore, ensure that the drainage system is perfect to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is necessary for the plant's growth and fruit development. Application of organic manure is highly recommended. You can use compost or well-rotted animal manure to fertilize the plant. Fertilization should be done twice a year, during the rainy and dry seasons.
Alternatively, you can use inorganic fertilizers with high potassium content, but it is necessary to follow the manufacturer's instructions to avoid damaging the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential activity in maintaining a healthy Baccaurea cavalliensis Beille plant. You need to regularly remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches to prevent further spread of the disease or pests. Pruning also stimulates the plant to develop new healthy branches.
Pruning should be done during the dormant season, and there should be no more than 30% of the tree cut to avoid stunting its growth. Pruning during the rainy season can cause fungal diseases to spread. Ensure to sterilize the pruning tools before use to avoid spreading diseases from one branch to another.
Propagation of Baccaurea Cavalliensis Beille
Baccaurea cavalliensis Beille, also known as Takan in Sarawak, is a fruiting understory tree that can be propagated through various methods.
Seed propagation
One way to propagate Baccaurea cavalliensis is through seed propagation. The seeds should be fresh and cleaned from the pulp before planting. After cleaning, the seeds can be soaked in water for a few hours to soften the seed coat. Then, the seeds can be planted in a well-draining seed-raising mix and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist and the seeds should germinate in approximately 2 to 3 weeks.
Cutting propagation
Baccaurea cavalliensis can also be propagated through cuttings. For this method, take cuttings about 20 cm in length from a healthy and mature tree. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cuttings and dip the cut ends into a rooting hormone. After that, plant the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist. When new leaves start to grow, it indicates that the cuttings have rooted, and they can be transplanted to a larger container or planted in the ground.
Air layering
Air layering is another propagation method for Baccaurea cavalliensis. This method involves making a cut in the bark of the stem and wrapping it with moss or damp cloth. After that, cover the moss or cloth with a plastic bag to retain moisture. Roots will eventually form at the point where the cut was made, and when they are well-developed, the stem can be cut off and planted in a pot or in the ground.
Propagation of Baccaurea cavalliensis can be a rewarding experience for gardeners and farmers alike. By using these propagation methods, one can easily propagate Baccaurea cavalliensis and enjoy its delicious fruits in the future.
Disease and Pest Management for Baccaurea Cavalliensis Beille
Baccaurea cavalliensis Beille is a plant species that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family and usually grows up to 10 meters tall. It is a popular fruit tree known for its edible fruits that are consumed fresh or made into juice, jam, or wine. However, like other plants, Baccaurea cavalliensis is susceptible to diseases and pests, which can affect its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and fruits of Baccaurea cavalliensis. The disease is characterized by the appearance of small, sunken lesions that are surrounded by a yellow halo. Over time, the lesions can enlarge and merge to form larger infected areas that can cause defoliation and fruit drop. To manage anthracnose, prune and dispose of infected plant parts and apply a fungicide with the active ingredient thiophanate-methyl.
2. Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, flowers, and fruits of Baccaurea cavalliensis. Symptoms of powdery mildew include the appearance of a white, powdery substance on the surface of the plant parts and the distortion or stunting of growth. To manage powdery mildew, remove and dispose of infected plant parts and apply a fungicide with the active ingredient myclobutanil or tebuconazole.
Pests
1. Fruit Fly
The fruit fly is a common pest that attacks the fruits of Baccaurea cavalliensis. The fly lays its eggs in the fruit, and the larvae feed on the pulp, leaving behind damaged and discolored fruit. To manage the fruit fly, use yellow sticky traps to monitor and catch the flies, and apply an insecticide with the active ingredient malathion or carbaryl.
2. Leaf-Eating Caterpillars
Leaf-eating caterpillars are pests that can defoliate Baccaurea cavalliensis. The caterpillars feed on the leaves, causing large gaps and holes that can affect the plant's photosynthesis and growth. To manage leaf-eating caterpillars, handpick and dispose of the caterpillars and apply an insecticide with the active ingredient spinosad.
In conclusion, the management of diseases and pests in Baccaurea cavalliensis Beille is essential to maintaining its growth, productivity, and fruit quality. Regular monitoring and early detection of diseases and pests are crucial to minimize their impact and prevent the use of harmful chemicals that can affect human health and the environment.
