Overview:
Bumelia bellonis (Urban) Stearn, commonly known as Choco Zancona, is a small evergreen tree that belongs to the sapodilla family, Sapotaceae. The plant is native to the Caribbean and Central America, particularly in the regions of Colombia, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Panama.
General Appearance:
The Choco Zancona grows up to 25 feet tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 1 foot. The tree has a smooth, gray bark and dense foliage of shiny, dark green leaves that are oval-shaped and pointed at the tip. The plant bears small, white flowers that are followed by small, globular fruits. Each fruit is around 1.5 centimeters in diameter, has a bright yellow color, and contains a single seed.
Common Names:
The Choco Zancona has many other common names across its native range. In Colombia, it is called Cachito, Chicle, Chicozapote, Frijolillo, Naranjito, and Zapatero. In Costa Rica, it is known as Zancona, Zapatero, and Chicle. In Panama, it is called Amargo, Bogash, Chicozapote, and Chupa Chupa. In Nicaragua, it is referred to as Zapote and Zapatero.
Uses:
The Choco Zancona has several uses in traditional medicine and local cuisine. The fruits are edible and have a sweet taste. They are made into jams, jellies, and refreshing drinks. The bark and leaves of the plant have medicinal properties that are used to treat various ailments such as diabetes, dysentery, and fever. The sap of the tree is also commonly used as a natural chewing gum.
Overall, the Choco Zancona is a valuable plant that is appreciated for its beauty, usefulness, and cultural significance. With proper conservation efforts, this plant can continue to thrive in its native range for generations to come.
Light Requirements
Bumelia bellonis (Urban) Stearn plants prefer to grow in full sunlight. They can tolerate partial shade, but growth may be slower and less vigorous. It is important to ensure that they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to ensure optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
The Bumelia bellonis (Urban) Stearn grows best in warm climates with average to high temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60 to 85°F. They can tolerate temperatures as high as 95°F, but prolonged exposure to high temperatures may cause the plant to suffer from heat stress or dehydration. They can also withstand temperatures as low as 32°F but may suffer from frost damage if exposed to frosty conditions.
Soil Requirements
Bumelia bellonis (Urban) Stearn plants thrive in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. They prefer moderate to low fertility soil and are tolerant of a range of soil types. Bumelia bellonis (Urban) Stearn is a drought-tolerant plant. However, it needs proper irrigation during the initial growth stages to facilitate root establishment.
Cultivation of Bumelia bellonis (Urban) Stearn
Bumelia bellonis (Urban) Stearn, commonly known as the "Bahama goldenwood," is a low-maintenance shrub native to the West Indies. It is a small tree that grows up to 10-15 feet tall and requires minimal care, making it an ideal plant for novice gardeners and those who wish to add native plants to their collection.
The ideal time to plant Bumelia bellonis is in the spring or fall, when the temperature is mild and the soil is moist. When planting, ensure that the shrub is planted in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The shrub prefers full to partial sun exposure.
Watering Needs
Bumelia bellonis is drought-tolerant once established, but regular watering is necessary during the first year after planting. Water the plant deeply once a week, making sure that the soil is sufficiently moist. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Bumelia bellonis does not require regular fertilization. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring can help promote growth and maintain overall plant health. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering and fruiting.
Pruning
Bumelia bellonis does not require extensive pruning, but occasional trimming is necessary to remove dead or damaged branches. It is best to do this in the late winter or early spring, before the start of the new growth season. Pruning can also be done to maintain the plant's desired shape and size.
Propagation of Bumelia bellonis (Urban) Stearn
Bumelia bellonis (Urban) Stearn, commonly known as the Fragrant buckthorn or Buckthorn, is a plant species found in the Caribbean and Central America. Plant propagation is the process of producing new individuals or offspring from the original plant to ensure the plant's survival. Here are the propagation methods for Bumelia bellonis:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Bumelia bellonis is through seed propagation. The seeds can be collected from mature fruits during the fall season. Remove the pulp from the seeds and wash them with water. Spread them out to dry in the sun. Once dry, sow the seeds in a container filled with well-draining soil. Water regularly and keep the container in a warm, well-lit area. The seeds will germinate in 2-3 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted once they reach a height of 4-6 inches.
Cuttings Propagation
Another propagation method for Bumelia bellonis is through stem cuttings. Take cuttings from a healthy mother plant during the growing season. Cut a 5-6 inch stem of new growth below a node and remove the lower leaves, leaving only 1-2 on top. Dip the stem end into rooting hormone powder and plant it in a pot filled with well-draining soil. Water the cutting until the soil is moist and place the pot in a warm, well-lit area. The cuttings should root in 4-6 weeks. Once the roots are well-established, transplant the cutting into a larger container or in the garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Bumelia bellonis (Urban) Stearn
Bumelia bellonis (Urban) Stearn, also known as "Lluvia de Oro," is a tree species that belongs to the Sapotaceae family. Like any other plant, it is prone to diseases and pests. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect B. bellonis and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf spot - Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, prune and remove infected leaves and branches. Fungicides can also be applied to prevent further infection.
Sooty mold - Sooty mold is a black, fungus-like growth that grows on the honeydew excreted by insects such as aphids and whiteflies. To manage sooty mold, control the insects that produce honeydew by spraying insecticides. After controlling the insects, the sooty mold will eventually disappear.
Pests
Aphids - Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck plant sap. They cause leaf curling and yellowing. To manage aphids, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the leaves of the plants.
Scale insects - Scale insects are small sap-sucking insects that look like small bumps on the leaves and twigs. They cause yellowing and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, prune and remove infected leaves and branches. For severe cases, apply insecticides.
Spider mites - Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged arachnids that suck the juices from plant cells. They cause stippling and yellowing of the leaves. To manage spider mites, wash the leaves with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regularly inspecting and maintaining your B. bellonis tree can help prevent and manage diseases and pests. If you notice any signs of diseases or pests, act quickly to prevent further spread and damage.
