Overview: Balsamocitrus dawei
Balsamocitrus dawei, also known as Dawei lime or Dawei citron, is a rare and valuable plant species. It belongs to the Rutaceae family and is native to the Dawei district in Myanmar. This plant is highly prized for its medicinal properties and ornamental value. The Dawei lime tree is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that produces edible fruits, which are used in traditional medicine and culinary applications.
Appearance:
The Balsamocitrus dawei tree features a dense canopy of glossy, dark green leaves that grow in opposing pairs. The tree can grow up to 20-30 feet tall when mature, producing small white or pale pink fragrant flowers in the summer. The fruits of the tree are small, round, and oblong with a light yellowish-green color. The flesh of the fruit is juicy, sour, and acidic, containing seeds in the center.
Common Names:
The Balsamocitrus dawei tree is commonly known by several other names. In addition to Dawei Citron and Dawei lime, this plant is also referred to as the "Burmese citron," "Burmese lemon," or "green lime."
Uses:
The Balsamocitrus dawei tree has many uses and benefits. The fruit of the tree is widely used in traditional medicine as a remedy for several ailments, including digestive problems, cough, colds, and fever. The juice from the fruit is also used to flavor beverages, candy, jams, and sauces. The tree's leaves and bark contain aromatic oils and are used to make perfumes, essential oils, and incense. The fruit's high pectin content makes it useful in the production of marmalade.
Beyond its medicinal and culinary uses, Balsamocitrus dawei is also used for ornamental purposes. The tree's attractive foliage makes it a popular landscape plant, and the fragrant flowers are sometimes used in flower arrangements.
Light Requirements
Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate shade but won't bloom as profusely.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows best in warm and humid conditions. Temperatures ranging from 15°C to 35°C are suitable for Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf, but the plant cannot withstand frost or freeze.
Soil Requirements
Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf prefers well-drained soils with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. The plant grows well in various soil types, including sandy loam, clay loam, and laterite soil.
It is essential to provide good drainage and ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Using organic fertilizers will improve the soil structure and facilitate the uptake of nutrients by the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf is native to Southeast Asia. It is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 4 meters. When propagated from seeds, it may take up to 3 years to produce fruit from the seedlings. The plant prefers warm, humid climates and well-draining soil. It thrives in full sun or partial shade.
Watering Needs
The Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf should be watered regularly during the growing season. Inappropriate watering may hinder the plant growth and may lead to dry fruit. The soil should be kept slightly moist but not waterlogged. It is recommended to water the plant twice a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Fertilization
The Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf requires feeding once every 2 weeks during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended. Fertilization could be suspended during the winter months when the plant is dormant. An over-fertilized plant may produce a lot of leaves, but few flowers and fruits.
Pruning
Pruning the Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf is crucial to maintain a good shape and encourage fruit bearing. Pruning should be done during the dormant season or after fruit harvest. The plant should be pruned to remove diseased, damaged, or crossing branches and to promote sunlight penetration into the plant. Additionally, the plant should be pruned at the top to allow the plant to have a desirable shape.
Propagation of Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf
Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf, commonly known as Dawe's citrus or Burmese balsam citrus, is a rare and exotic plant that can be propagated through several methods:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Balsamocitrus dawei is by collecting its seeds and planting them in a well-draining potting mix. Before planting, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften their hard outer coating, which makes it easier for them to germinate. Sow the seeds 2cm deep in the soil and keep them in a warm and humid environment.
Cuttings Propagation
Balsamocitrus dawei can also be propagated through stem cuttings, which should be taken during the early summer when the plant is actively growing. Take about 6-8 inches long stem cuttings and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining pot filled with a mixture of soil and perlite. Cover the pot with a plastic bag to create a humid environment, and place it in a bright but indirect light location.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is a propagation method used to increase the success rate of propagating Balsamocitrus dawei. It involves making a cut in the stem of the plant and wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss and plastic. As new roots form, the stem is eventually cut from the mother plant and planted in a new pot with well-draining soil.
Overall, Balsamocitrus dawei is a lovely plant that can be propagated quite easily through different methods, and it's important to choose the propagation method that works best for you.
Disease and Pest Management for Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf
Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf, commonly known as Dawe's balsam lemon, is a rare citrus tree species that is primarily grown for ornamental and medicinal purposes. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can significantly affect its growth and health. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them:
Fungal Diseases
Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf is vulnerable to fungal diseases like root rot, black spot, and powdery mildew. These diseases can cause leaf spots, wilting, yellowing, and even death if not managed promptly. To prevent fungal diseases, ensure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Remove and dispose of affected plant parts to prevent the spread of disease. Treating the plant with an appropriate fungicide can also help in managing fungal diseases.
Insect Pests
Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf is prone to attack by various insect pests like aphids, scales, and mealybugs. These pests can cause damage to the plant's leaves, fruits, and even the bark if left unchecked. To manage insect pests, regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and use appropriate insecticides to control the pest population. Natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to the garden as a biocontrol method.
Nematodes
Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf may also be affected by plant-parasitic nematodes, which can cause root galling, stunted growth, and even death. To manage nematode infestation, ensure the use of nematode-free planting materials. Crop rotation and soil solarization can also be used to reduce the nematode population in the soil.
Viral Diseases
Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf is susceptible to various viral diseases like citrus greening and tristeza virus, which are transmitted by insect vectors. Infected plants show stunted growth, yellowing, and dieback. Unfortunately, there is no cure for viral diseases, so the best approach is to prevent the spread of the disease by removing and destroying affected plants and using insecticides to control the vector population.
By implementing the above disease and pest management strategies, growers can minimize the impact of diseases and pests on Balsamocitrus dawei Stapf, leading to healthy plant growth and better fruit production.
