Origin and Common Names
Brucella sumatrana Roxb. is a plant species belonging to the Simaroubaceae family. It is commonly found in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. The plant is also known by other common names, including "Siam Neal," "Yuh Qi," and "Bitter Wood," among others.Uses
The plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including malaria, fever, dysentery, and diarrhea. It is believed that the plant has active compounds that possess antimalarial and antitumor properties. The plant's bark and seeds are used to make herbal derivatives, including tinctures and decoctions, which are then used as a natural remedy for various illnesses. In addition to its medicinal properties, Brucella sumatrana is also used in the production of pesticides. The plant's extract is believed to possess insecticidal properties, making it an excellent alternative to chemical pesticides.General Appearance
Brucella sumatrana grows up to 30 meters in height and has a straight, cylindrical trunk with a diameter of up to 60 cm. The tree produces small, whitish-green flowers that are followed by small fruits that are 3-6 cm in diameter. The fruits contain seeds that are oval-shaped and measure between 1.5-2.5 cm in length. The plant's bark is grayish-brown and is covered with small, wart-like bumps. The leaves are alternate, pinnate, and measure between 25-75 cm in length. Each leaf consists of 11-19 leaflets that are elliptical in shape and have a glossy, dark-green color. In summary, Brucella sumatrana Roxb. is a medicinal plant that is native to Southeast Asia. The plant is used to treat malaria, fever, dysentery, and diarrhea and is also used in the production of natural pesticides. It is a large tree with a cylindrical trunk, small fruits, and elliptical leaflets.Light Requirements
Brucea sumatrana Roxb. requires a significant amount of sunlight to grow well. As a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia, it is adapted to receiving direct sunlight for several hours a day. It is recommended to grow Brucea sumatrana Roxb. in an area with full sun exposure or under artificial lighting that mimics full-spectrum sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
This plant requires warm temperatures to thrive. The optimum temperature range for growth is between 20°C to 30°C. Brucea sumatrana Roxb. is not frost-tolerant and cannot survive in extreme cold conditions. It is therefore important to ensure that the plant is grown in environments with stable temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Brucea sumatrana Roxb. prefers well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. The soil should have a slightly acidic to neutral pH range of between 5.5 to 7.5. The addition of organic matter can help improve soil fertility and structure, which enhances plant growth. It is also important to note that this plant has low salt tolerance and cannot survive in saline soils.
Cultivation methods for Brucea sumatrana Roxb.
Brucea sumatrana Roxb. is a hardy plant that can thrive in various types of soil, including clay, sandy, and loamy soils. However, the best soil for this plant is well-draining, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic with a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant prefers partial shade and needs protection from strong winds.
The seeds can be directly sowed into the soil after the last frost or planted in pots filled with potting mix. The ideal time to sow the seeds is during the spring season, and the germination period takes around 20-25 days. The plant can also propagate through root cuttings or stem cuttings taken from the parent plant.
Watering requirements for Brucea sumatrana Roxb.
Brucea sumatrana Roxb. needs moderate watering, and the soil should be kept slightly moist but not soggy. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. The plant can tolerate short periods of drought, but in dry weather, it requires more frequent watering. Water the plant early in the morning or in the late evening to prevent water evaporation.
Fertilization for Brucea sumatrana Roxb.
The plant requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 5-5-5 or 10-10-10. Apply the fertilizer once every four to six weeks during the growing season between early spring and late summer. Avoid applying too much fertilizer, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
Pruning Brucea sumatrana Roxb.
Brucea sumatrana Roxb. does not require regular pruning, but trimming the plant occasionally can help maintain its shape and promote new growth. The best time to prune the plant is during the winter or early spring before the new growth starts. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to remove the dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Cut the stem just above a leaf node or a lateral branch to promote branching and bushier growth.
Propagation of Brucea sumatrana Roxb.
Brucea sumatrana Roxb. can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, or layering. Each method has its own advantages and drawbacks.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds should be collected from fully mature fruits that have turned black. The seeds should be soaked in warm water for a few hours to remove any germination inhibitors. The seeds can then be sown in a seedling tray filled with well-draining soil mix. The tray should be placed in a warm place with partial shade. The seeds will germinate in 2 to 3 weeks.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken from mature and healthy plants. Cuttings should be taken from the lateral part of the stem and should be at least 6 inches long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting can then be planted in a pot filled with well-draining soil mix and placed in a warm place with partial shade. The cutting should root in about 4 to 8 weeks.
Propagation through Layering
Layering is a propagation method where a branch is bent to the ground and a portion of it is buried in the soil. The buried part of the branch will eventually develop roots, and a new plant can be separated from the parent plant. This method is particularly useful for plants that are difficult to root from cuttings. The branch should be selected carefully, and the bark should be scraped to expose the cambium layer. The buried portion of the branch should be held down with a stake, and the area should be kept moist. The new plant can be separated from the parent after a few months.
Disease and Pest Management for Brucea Sumatrana Roxb.
Brucera sumatrana Roxb. is a shrub that can be vulnerable to a wide range of diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management are essential to ensure the healthy growth of the plant. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to become discolored and wilt. To manage anthracnose, it is essential to practice good sanitation by removing all infected plant materials and debris. Fungicides can also be used to manage the disease effectively.
Bacterial Leaf Spot: Bacterial leaf spot is another common disease that affects Brucea sumatrana Roxb. It causes small, water-soaked lesions on the leaves. To manage the disease, it is essential to maintain proper plant hygiene and avoid over-watering the plant. Avoid overhead irrigation to limit water on foliage.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the fluids from the plant's leaves, causing them to become yellow and wilted. To manage spider mites, it is essential to use insecticidal soap or neem oil. These options are non-toxic and safe for the plant. It is also essential to avoid over-fertilizing the plant as excessive nitrogen can attract spider mites.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can be a severe threat to Brucea sumatrana Roxb. They feed on the foliage and can cause significant damage to the plant. To manage caterpillars, it is essential to use insecticides that are safe for the plant. It is also crucial to monitor the plant regularly and take action immediately when the caterpillars are detected.
Effective disease and pest management is essential for the healthy growth of Brucea sumatrana Roxb. Proper sanitation, hygiene, and regular monitoring are key practices to minimize disease and pest infestation. By adopting these best practices, you can ensure the healthy growth and productivity of the plant.
