Overview of Biramella acutifolia (Engl.) Tiegh.
Biramella acutifolia (Engl.) Tiegh. is a tropical plant species belonging to the family Dipterocarpaceae. The genus Biramella is monotypic, which means that there is only one known species within the genus – Biramella acutifolia. It is commonly known as “Talian” in the Philippines and “Kemiri hutan” in Indonesia.Origin of Biramella acutifolia
Biramella acutifolia is native to the Philippines, specifically Luzon and Mindanao. It can also be found in Indonesia, specifically in Sumatra. The plant species grows in lowland rainforests and other moist environments. Due to its limited distribution, it is considered as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.General Appearance of Biramella acutifolia
Biramella acutifolia is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 40 meters tall. The tree has a straight stem and can have a diameter of up to 120 centimeters. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown, and the inner bark exudes a yellowish-brown sap. The leaves are simple, leathery, and oblong in shape, measuring 9-14 centimeters long and 4-7 centimeters wide. The leaves have pointed tips and are arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers are small and yellowish, and they can be either male or female. The fruit is a 5-angled woody capsule that measures 5-8 centimeters long, containing a single seed that is covered by a hard shell.Common Uses of Biramella acutifolia
Biramella acutifolia is used in traditional medicine for various ailments. The bark of the tree is used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and fever. The leaves are used to treat wounds and skin diseases. The seeds are used to treat headache and lumbago. In some areas, the seeds are also used in cooking. The oil extracted from the seeds is used for its lubricating and moisturizing properties in cosmetic products. In the past, the timber of Biramella acutifolia was used for boatmaking, construction, and furniture. However, due to the limited distribution and vulnerability of the species, the logging of the tree is now strictly regulated. Overall, Biramella acutifolia is an important plant species that is beneficial to both humans and the environment.Light
Biramella acutifolia thrives best in partially shaded areas. It needs a light source of at least 50% shade to avoid stress and damage to the plant. Direct sunlight can cause sunburn on the leaves, causing them to curl and fall off.
Temperature
The ideal temperature range for Biramella acutifolia growth is between 22°C to 28°C. Below 20°C, the plant slows down its growth rate, and below 15°C, the plant may die. The plant cannot thrive in temperatures above 30°C for prolonged periods, and prolonged hot weather may cause dehydration of the plant.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should be well aerated to support the plant's root system adequately. The plant does not do well in standing water or overwatered soils. Biramella acutifolia can tolerate poor soils with a low nutrient content, but the plant grows best in nutrient-rich soils.
Cultivation of Biramella Acutifolia
Biramella acutifolia is a special plant species that is native to tropical regions of Africa. It is quite different from other plants and requires careful attention and maintenance to grow healthy and strong.
You should cultivate Biramella acutifolia in warm, wet, and humid climates. It prefers a temperature range of 20-30°C (68-86°F). The plant grows well in well-draining, rich soils and requires full sunlight or partial shade.
Watering Needs
Adequate watering is essential to support the growth of Biramella acutifolia. The plant is sensitive to drought and needs regular watering to stay healthy. Water your plant frequently, keeping the soil moist but not wet, as excessive watering can harm the roots. Also, ensure that the pot has enough drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
To ensure that your Biramella acutifolia grows well, you should regularly fertilize it. The plant requires a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. You can add organic fertilizer or compost to the soil during planting and subsequent fertilization every three months.
Pruning
Biramella acutifolia requires minimal pruning. Trim off any diseased or damaged leaves as soon as possible to prevent the spread of infection. Also, remove any dead or wilted flowers to encourage new growth and improve the overall appearance of the plant. Trim the leaves to maintain their shape and size.
Following these tips diligently, you can ensure the healthy growth and long-lasting life of your Biramella acutifolia plant.
Propagation of Biramella acutifolia
Biramella acutifolia (Engl.) Tiegh., also known as African pincushion, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is an evergreen perennial shrub that is native to the grasslands and savannas of Africa. If you want to propagate this plant, you need to follow the right methods to ensure the successful growth of new plants.
Propagation by Seeds
Biramella acutifolia can be propagated through seeds, which are readily available in the market. To start, prepare a seedbed with well-drained and moist soil. Sow the seeds on the surface of the soil and press them lightly into the soil. Water the soil regularly to keep it moist and cover the bed with a transparent plastic sheet to maintain the humidity level. The seeds will germinate within 10-14 days, and you can remove the plastic cover once the seedlings are about 2-3 cm tall.
Propagation by Cuttings
Biramella acutifolia can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Take 10-15 cm long cuttings from the parent plant during the growing season. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone powder and plant them in well-drained soil. Water the soil regularly to keep it moist and place the pot in a location where it can get bright indirect light. The cuttings will develop roots within 4-6 weeks, and you can transplant them into individual pots or the garden once they are well established.
Propagation by Division
Biramella acutifolia can also be propagated by dividing the parent plant during the spring or fall season. Dig up the plant carefully and separate the root ball into smaller sections. Replant the sections in well-drained soil, spacing them about 30-40 cm apart. Water the soil regularly to keep it moist, and provide some shade to protect the plants from direct sunlight until they are established.
By following any of these propagation methods, you can grow new Biramella acutifolia plants and enjoy the beauty of this stunning flowering shrub.
Disease Management
Biramella acutifolia is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. The common diseases that may affect this plant include powdery mildew, leaf spot, root rot, and fusarium wilt. To manage these diseases, several techniques and strategies can be implemented:
- Cultural control: This technique involves the use of proper crop management practices such as sanitation, crop rotation, and weed control. These practices help prevent the spread of the disease.
- Chemical control: This technique involves the use of fungicides to prevent the growth and spread of fungal diseases. However, this should be the last resort, and the use of fungicides should be done with care.
- Biocontrol: This involves the use of beneficial microorganisms to regulate the growth and spread of pathogenic fungi. It can be done by introducing beneficial fungi into the soil to outcompete the pathogenic ones.
Pest Management
Biramella acutifolia is also susceptible to pest infestations that may affect its growth and productivity. The common pests that may affect this plant include aphids, mites, and caterpillars. To manage these pests, several techniques and strategies can be implemented:
- Cultural control: This technique involves the use of proper crop management practices such as crop rotation, removal of affected plants, and weed control. These practices help prevent the spread of the pest.
- Mechanical control: This involves the use of physical methods such as handpicking, traps, and barriers to control the pest population.
- Chemical control: This involves the use of pesticides to control the pest population. However, this should be done responsibly, and the use of pesticides should be the last resort.
- Biological control: This involves the use of natural predators or parasites to regulate the pest population. It can be done by introducing natural enemies of the pest into the ecosystem.
