Introduction
Brosimum aubletii Poeppig & Endl. is a plant species belonging to the family Moraceae, and is native to the Amazon basin in South America. This tree species can be found in various parts of South America, including Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela.
Common Names
Brosimum aubletii is commonly known as "osha" in Peru and Ecuador, "osha yacu" in Colombia, and "jacareúba" or "mamacadela" in Brazil.
Uses
Brosimum aubletii has several uses in traditional medicine and in the production of commercial goods. Indigenous tribes in South America have been using different parts of the tree for medicinal purposes for centuries. The latex from the bark of Brosimum aubletii is used for treating skin diseases, wounds, and fungal infections. The leaves of the plant are used for preparing tea meant for treating respiratory problems such as asthma, bronchitis, and coughs.
Aside from its medicinal properties, various commercial goods are sourced from the Brosimum aubletii. The tree's wood is used in the production of paper, furniture, and construction materials, among other things.
Appearance
Brosimum aubletii is a tall evergreen tree, with an average height of 25 to 35 meters. The tree's trunk is straight and cylindrical, with a diameter of approximately one meter. The tree's bark is grayish-brown, rough, and fissured. Its leaves are simple, alternate, elliptic, and glossy green, measuring up to 20 cm in length. Its flowers are small, cream-colored, and arranged in axillary clusters. Its fruit is a globose drupe, measure up to 3 cm in diameter, and is green initially but ripens to yellow or brown.
Brosimum aubletii is a multi-purpose tree species that benefits the people and environment where it grows. With its medicinal properties and various commercial uses, Brosimum aubletii is definitely one plant species worth keeping an eye on.
Light Requirements
Brosimum aubletii thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. It can tolerate shade but may not grow as vigorously or produce as much fruit. For optimal growth, it is best to place the plant in an area that gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the tropical regions of South and Central America, and as such, it prefers warm temperatures. It can grow well in areas with temperatures ranging from 65°F to 85°F. Temperatures below 45°F can harm the plant, and it is advisable to protect it from extreme cold.
Soil Requirements
Brosimum aubletii prefers well-drained, fertile, and slightly acidic soil. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types but prefers loamy or sandy soils with a pH of 6.0-6.5. It can tolerate drought conditions but thrives best in moderately moist soil. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve its texture and water retention capacity.
Cultivation of Brosimum Aubletii Poeppig & Endl.
Brosimum aubletii Poeppig & Endl., commonly known as "Moriche Palm," is a tropical tree species native to South America. This plant species requires a few particular care needs to thrive in cultivation:
1. Optimal Planting: Moriche Palm thrives well in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH range of 5 to 7.5. Make sure to plant them in a location receiving full sunlight or partial shade, depending on the region's climate, to avoid drying out or burning the developing leaves.
2. Temperature: This tree species flourishes well in warm temperatures, ranging between 20°C to 36°C.
3. Propagation: The propagation method of this tree species is best through seeds. Harvest a ripe fruit, remove the pulp carefully, and collect the seed from the pulp. Sow the seeds in moist soil. Once the seedlings have four to five leaves, transplant them to the main site.
Watering Needs of Brosimum Aubletii Poeppig & Endl.
In its early stages of planting, the Moriche Palm requires adequate watering. As the tree develops, reduce the watering frequency, allowing the topsoil to dry out between each watering session. Over-watering can lead to root rot, thus damaging the tree in the long run.
Fertilization of Brosimum Aubletii Poeppig & Endl.
Brosimum aubletii Poeppig & Endl. requires minimal fertilization as it is a low maintenance tree species. Use organic fertilizers, or mix 10-10-10 NPK fertilizers into the soil during planting. Repeat the fertilizing annually to boost growth.
Pruning Brosimum Aubletii Poeppig & Endl.
The maintenance pruning of this species is necessary to retain the tree's shape and improve its overall appearance. Prune the tree in the early stages of growth to remove damaged, broken, or infected leaves. Avoid cutting more than 30% of the tree to prevent stunting the tree's development. Always remember to use sterilized pruning equipment to avoid spreading diseases to the tree.
Propagation of Brosimum aubletii Poeppig & Endl.
Brosimum aubletii Poeppig & Endl. is commonly propagated through seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds of Brosimum aubletii are best collected during the fruiting season when the fruits have turned from green to yellow. The fruits should be harvested directly from the tree. After harvesting, the seeds should be removed from the fruits and washed to remove any debris. It is recommended that the seeds be soaked in water for up to 24 hours to aid in germination.
Plant the seeds in a well-draining and fertile soil mixture with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. The seeds should be planted about 1 cm below the soil surface. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually occurs after two to four weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from mature trees in the early summer when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy and disease-free branch from the tree, and cut it to a length of about 20 cm using a sharp and sterilized knife.
Remove all the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the branch in a rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mixture with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5, and keep it moist by watering regularly. Place the cutting in a warm, humid environment with bright, indirect light.
Rooting should occur after four to six weeks, and the cutting can be transplanted to a larger container or moved to a permanent growing location once it has established roots.
Disease and Pest Management for Brosimum aubletii Poeppig & Endl.
Brosimum aubletii Poeppig & Endl., also known as the Amazon breadnut, is a tropical plant that is commonly cultivated for its edible fruit and timber. While it is generally a resilient plant, it is susceptible to certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and survival. Here are some common issues and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Brosimum aubletii can be affected by several diseases including root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by fungi that infect the plant's roots, leading to decay and death of the affected plant parts. Symptoms include yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. If the disease has already infected the plant, remove the affected parts, and treat the soil with fungicide.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects leaves, causing a white, powdery coating. In severe cases, it can cause leaf distortion and defoliation. To control powdery mildew, use a fungicide and ensure adequate air circulation and sunlight around the plant.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular brown or black spots on leaves. It can cause premature leaf drop and reduce the plant's growth rate. To control leaf spot, avoid overhead watering, remove infected leaves, and use a fungicide.
Common Pests
Brosimum aubletii can also be affected by several pests, including aphids, mealybugs, and scales.
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing distortion and curling of leaves. To control aphids, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or release natural predators such as ladybugs.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that produce a powdery wax coating. They feed on the plant's sap, causing wilting and stunted growth. To control mealybugs, use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or remove them manually using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Scales: Scales are small, flat insects that attach themselves to the plant's leaves and stems, sucking out the sap. They can cause yellowing and dropping of leaves, as well as weak growth. To control scales, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, or remove them manually using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
With proper care and attention, Brosimum aubletii can thrive and produce healthy fruits and timber. Regular monitoring and prompt action against diseases and pests are essential to prevent them from causing severe damage to the plant.
