Origin and Common Names
Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma fischeri (Pax) Radcl.-Sm. is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Phyllanthaceae. It is commonly known as the puzzlebush, bird-lime tree, and tambalacoque. The plant is native to Africa, particularly in Madagascar, Mauritius, and the Comoros Islands.
General Appearance
The puzzlebush is a small tree that grows up to 12 meters tall. It has an irregular and dense canopy, with a width that is slightly larger than its height. The trunk and branches have a rough and reddish-brown bark that exfoliates in small flakes. The leaves are alternate, elliptical to obovate, and measure up to 20 centimeters long. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and have a wavy apex. The plant produces small greenish-white flowers that are borne in clusters that grow up to 10 centimeters long. The fruit is a globose or slightly oblong drupe that measures up to 1.5 centimeters in diameter.
Uses
Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma fischeri (Pax) Radcl.-Sm. has many uses in traditional medicine. The bark and leaves are used to treat various ailments, including diarrhea, dysentery, stomach pains, and fever. The plant contains alkaloids, tannins, and flavonoids that have antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. The fruit is edible, and the seeds are roasted and used as a substitute for coffee. The wood is hard, heavy, and has a high density, making it ideal for making tool handles and furniture. The puzzlebush is also an ornamental plant that is grown for its attractive foliage and flowers.
Light Requirements
Bridelia cathartica forma fischeri requires full sunlight to grow and develop properly. It cannot tolerate excessive shade, and the plant's growth may be stunted if it is not exposed to enough sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm and humid environments and thrives well in tropical and subtropical climates. It is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 9b and above. The optimum temperature range for growth is between 18°C and 30°C. Temperatures below 7°C and above 38°C are not suitable for Bridelia cathartica.
Soil Requirements
Bridelia cathartica forma fischeri can grow in different types of well-draining soils, including sandy soils, loamy soils, and clay soils. However, the plant prefers nutrient-rich, well-draining soils that are slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.5). The soil should not be compacted, as it can hamper the growth of the plant. Apply an organic fertilizer to the soil several times a year to provide adequate nutrients.
Cultivation methods
Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma fischeri (Pax) Radcl.-Sm. can be propagated using seeds or cuttings. For seeds, ensure they are fresh as they are not able to withstand more than two weeks of storage. The seeds should be placed in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination. For cuttings, choose young stems and dip them in rooting hormone before planting in a potting mix. It is recommended to grow this plant in full sun or partially shaded areas.
Watering needs
Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma fischeri (Pax) Radcl.-Sm. requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant. The soil should be well-draining, and any excess water should be allowed to drain out.
Fertilization
Fertilize the Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma fischeri (Pax) Radcl.-Sm. plant during its active growing period, usually in the spring and summer months. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, or a fertilizer specifically formulated for woody plants. Avoid applying fertilizer to dry soil and always follow the instructions on the package.
Pruning
Prune Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma fischeri (Pax) Radcl.-Sm. plants during the dormant season, usually in late winter or early spring. Remove any damaged or dead branches, crossing branches, or branches that are growing in undesired directions. This will help to maintain a healthy and structured plant. Trim back any overly-long branches to encourage bushier growth. Also, remember to sterilize your pruning tools to avoid spreading diseases between plants.
Propagation of Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma fischeri (Pax) Radcl.-Sm.
Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma fischeri (Pax) Radcl.-Sm. can be propagated through both sexual and asexual methods. The plant can be grown from seeds, stem cuttings, and root cuttings.
Propagation from Seeds
The seeds of Bridelia cathartica should be collected from the fruit when it is fully ripe. The fruit should be mashed and the seeds should be cleaned before sowing.
The seeds should be sown in a suitable potting mix, and watered regularly. They should be kept in a warm, well-lit area, but not directly exposed to sunlight. The seeds should germinate within 2-4 weeks and when the seedlings have grown a few leaves, they can be transplanted to individual pots.
Propagation from Stem Cuttings
The stem cuttings for Bridelia cathartica can be collected in spring from healthy, mature plants. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long and should have several leaves.
The lower leaves should be removed and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder before being planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and well-lit area, but not in direct sunlight. Within 2-3 weeks, the cuttings should develop roots and new growth.
Propagation from Root Cuttings
The root cuttings for Bridelia cathartica can be collected in late winter from healthy, mature plants. The cuttings should be about 1-2 inches long and should have several roots attached.
The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and should be kept in a warm and well-lit area, but not in direct sunlight. Within 3-4 weeks, the cuttings should develop new shoots and begin to grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma fischeri (Pax) Radcl.-Sm.
Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma fischeri (Pax) Radcl.-Sm. is a hardy plant species that is less susceptible to diseases and pests. However, it is still prone to a few pests and diseases that can damage its health and productivity. By observing proper cultural practices and preventive measures, the incidence and intensity of these problems can be reduced.
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that can cause leaf spots, blights, and dieback. It thrives in warm and humid conditions and can be spread by water and wind. To manage anthracnose, keep the plants dry by watering at the base and avoiding overhead watering. Prune and destroy infected branches and leaves regularly. Applying fungicides can also be effective if used in the early stages of infection.
Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that causes sunken spots, stem discoloration, and dieback. It can infect plants through wounds, pruning cuts, or insect damage. To manage canker, sanitize pruning tools before use, avoid wounding the plants, and remove and destroy infected branches and stems. Applying fungicides can also be helpful in the early stages of infection.
Common Pests
Scales: Scales are small, sap-sucking insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of plants. They can cause yellowing, wilting, and dieback. To manage scales, prune and destroy heavily infested parts of the plant, use sticky traps to trap the insects, and apply insecticidal soap or oil to eliminate them.
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed by sucking sap from the plant. They can cause wilting, stunted growth, and honeydew formation. To manage aphids, prune and dispose of the affected plant parts, wash the leaves with a strong jet of water, and apply insecticidal soap or oil to eliminate them.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that spin webs and suck sap from the plant. They can cause yellowing, stippling, and curling of leaves. To manage spider mites, prune and destroy affected areas of the plant, use a strong jet of water to wash the leaves, and apply acaricides to eliminate them.
By observing proper cultural practices, providing adequate nutrition, and preventing environmental stresses, the incidence and intensity of diseases and pests on Bridelia cathartica G.Bertol. forma fischeri (Pax) Radcl.-Sm. can be reduced. Early detection and prompt management of these problems can help protect the plant's health and productivity and maintain its ornamental value.
