Overview of Baccaurea macrophylla Pax
Baccaurea macrophylla Pax is a plant native to Southeast Asia, particularly found in Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. It comes from the family of Euphorbiaceae and is commonly known as Terap or Jentik-Jentik in the Malay language.
Appearance
The Baccaurea macrophylla Pax plant grows up to 40 meters tall and has a dense, round-shaped canopy. The leaves of the plant are broad, dark green, and can grow up to 40 cm long and 20 cm wide. The branches of the tree are covered with small, greenish-white or yellow flowers that bloom in clusters.
Once the flowers are pollinated, the fruit of the Baccaurea macrophylla Pax plant begins to grow. The fruit is round, about 5 cm in diameter, and yellowish-brown in color. It has a thin outer layer that is bitter and inedible, while the inner flesh is juicy, sweet, and has a slightly sour taste. The fruit contains a large seed that can be eaten when roasted or boiled.
Traditional Uses
Baccaurea macrophylla Pax has been traditionally used in Southeast Asian cuisine as a fruit snack, refreshing juice, or ingredient in salads and curries. The plant's leaves are also used in traditional medicine to treat skin diseases, fever, and cough.
Aside from its culinary and medicinal uses, the Baccaurea macrophylla Pax plant is also valued for its timber. Its wood is sturdy, heavy and durable and is used to make furniture, tool handles and other items.
The plant also has a vital role in the ecosystem as it is known to attract wildlife such as birds and bats, which helps in seed dispersal.
Light Requirements
Baccaurea macrophylla Pax prefers moderate to bright indirect sunlight. It can tolerate some periods of direct sunlight but extreme exposure may lead to scorching of the leaves. It is best grown in areas with bright but filtered or diffused light.
Temperature Requirements
The plant thrives in a warm environment with a temperature range of 18°C to 32°C. It needs a minimum temperature of 10°C to survive and may experience stress if exposed to temperatures lower than that. Its growth can be affected by sudden temperature changes and high fluctuations, therefore, it is important to maintain a steady temperature level.
Soil Requirements
Baccaurea macrophylla Pax grows well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should be kept moderately moist at all times, but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal infections. A nutrient-rich soil with good drainage will help the plants grow optimally.
Cultivation Methods for Baccaurea Macrophylla Pax
Baccaurea macrophylla Pax, best known as “Rambai,” is a fruit tree that is indigenous to Southeast Asia. It is mostly found growing naturally in the forests, and it’s often a solitary tree. To cultivate the plant, one needs to have the appropriate knowledge, the right soils, a suitable climate, and the necessary skills.
One of the most common methods when cultivating Baccaurea Macrophylla Pax is through the use of seeds. During propagation, the seeds should be planted in a suitable location with well-draining soils. The soil's pH should be around 6.0 to 7.0, and it must be kept moist for the plants to germinate well. Regular weeding and maintaining optimal temperatures will support the growth of this tree.
Watering Needs for Baccaurea Macrophylla Pax
Water is essential for the Baccaurea Macrophylla Pax tree to grow and thrive. It is recommended to water it regularly to ensure that the roots have enough moisture to support the tree's growth. However, excessive watering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and ultimately affect the entire tree.
It is best to water the plant during the dry season when there is less rainfall. The tree should be watered every two weeks, and it is recommended to use a good quality fertilizer to maximize the plant's growth.
Fertilization for Baccaurea Macrophylla Pax
Baccaurea Macrophylla Pax should be fertilized regularly to keep the plant healthy and ensure optimal growth. Fertilizing the plant will provide the tree with the necessary nutrients that it needs to thrive.
The ideal time to fertilize the plant is before and after the flowering stage. During this period, it is recommended to use organic fertilizers such as cow manure. It will help in improving the soil quality. The amount of fertilizer needed should be determined based on the soil condition and tree size.
Pruning Baccaurea Macrophylla Pax
Pruning Baccaurea Macrophylla Pax is necessary to remove weak, diseased, or damaged branches and leaves. Pruning is also essential to help direct the tree's growth, shape, and maintain optimal sunlight exposure.
Pruning should be done after the tree has produced fruit to avoid interfering with the fruit's maturation process. During the pruning process, it is essential to use clean and sharp tools to avoid injuring the branches and bark of the tree.
To obtain adequate fruit production, pruning should be performed regularly every two to three years. It is best to consult with a specialist or seek guidance on the appropriate pruning method and time to enhance the tree's growth and fruit production.
Propagation of Baccaurea macrophylla Pax
Baccaurea macrophylla Pax, also known as the Rambai tree, can be propagated using different methods.
Seed propagation
The propagation of Baccaurea macrophylla Pax can be done through seed germination. Collect the seeds from the ripe fruit, wash them in water, and remove any pulp. Soak the seeds in water for 1 hour before sowing, as it improves germination rates. The seeds can be sown in a seed tray or pot filled with garden soil, lightly cover with soil, and place in bright, filtered light. Keep the soil moist and monitor the seedlings for growth, potting them on when they are strong enough to handle.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation is another method that can be used to propagate Baccaurea macrophylla Pax. Take cuttings from the mother plant, making sure that they are 10-15cm long and have several leaves. Remove any leaves that will be submerged when the cutting is propagated. Dip the lower end of the cutting into hormone rooting powder and plant it in a pot with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in bright, indirect light.
Air layering propagation
Air layering propagation is a method mostly used for mature Rambai trees. It involves wounding a branch in the middle and applying hormone rooting powder on the wound. The wound is then covered with moist sphagnum moss, which is kept moist by enclosing it with plastic. When roots have developed, the air-layered section is cut off and planted in a pot with garden soil.
Propagation of Baccaurea macrophylla Pax is an easy process that can be achieved using any of the above methods. The plant grows well in tropical regions with adequate sunlight and humidity.
Disease and Pest Management of Baccaurea macrophylla Pax
Baccaurea macrophylla Pax is a fruit-bearing tree that is native to Southeast Asia. Like any other plant, this species is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and fruit production. It is essential to implement adequate management practices to prevent, control, and treat any pest or disease infestation.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Baccaurea macrophylla Pax is anthracnose, caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Symptoms include sunken black lesions on leaves, stems, and fruits. To manage this disease, prune and destroy the affected plant parts immediately and apply a fungicide containing copper or chlorothalonil.
Another disease that can affect the plant is powdery mildew, caused by the fungus Uncinula baccarum. The symptoms include white powdery spots on leaves, shoots, and young fruits. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overcrowding, promote good air circulation, and apply sulfur-based fungicides.
Pests
Aphids are common pests that can infest Baccaurea macrophylla Pax. They suck the sap from the plant, causing leaves to curl and fruit deformation. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or a strong jet of water to knock them off the plant.
The fruit fly is another pest that can cause significant damage to the fruit. The fly lay eggs on the fruit, and the larvae tunnel inside, making it inedible. To control the fruit fly, prune the affected fruits and remove them from the area. You can also use baits or insecticides to control the adult flies.
Cutworms are not common in Baccaurea macrophylla Pax, but they can occasionally infest the plant. These pests can cut the plant's stem at ground level, causing the plant to die. To prevent cutworms, use collars made of cardboard or plastic around the base of the plant or apply a pesticide containing Bacillus thuringiensis.
It is important to monitor the plant regularly for any signs of disease or pest infestation. Proper sanitation and good cultural practices can help prevent and manage most infestations. Early detection and treatment are critical to prevent further damage to the plant and ensure healthy fruit production.
