Overview of Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern.
Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern. is a small to medium-sized tree that belongs to the sapodilla family (Sapotaceae). It is native to the southeastern United States, particularly in the states of Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. Varieties of Bumelia lycioides can also be found in Mexico, Central America, and some islands in the Caribbean.
Common Names
Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern. is commonly known by various names such as the Virginia buckthorn, southern buckthorn, Georgia bully, woollybucket bumelia, and gum bully. These names are derived from the tree's habitat, physical appearance, and the features of its fruit.
Uses
Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern. has been used by Native American tribes for various medicinal purposes. The tree bark has been used to treat fever, diarrhea, and dysentery. It has also been used to cure skin rashes, boils, and other skin ailments. In addition, the wood of Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern. is hard and durable, making it useful for making tool handles, fence posts, and other small wooden objects.
General Appearance
Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern. can grow up to 30 feet tall, but usually grows between 10 to 20 feet. The tree has a straight trunk that measures about 8 inches in diameter. Its leaves are deciduous, which means they fall off during the winter months. The leaves are simple and alternate, growing up to 5 inches long and 2 inches wide. The tree produces small, white flowers that bloom in April and May. The fruit of Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern. is a small berry that is 1/4 inch in diameter. The fruit is green when unripe but turns black when it matures and is edible for humans and wildlife.
Light requirements
Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana typically thrives in areas with bright, direct sunlight. A minimum of 6-8 hours of direct sunlight is recommended for optimal growth. However, this plant can also tolerate partial shade, although it may lead to slower growth.
Temperature requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures and is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 5-10. It can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F (-28°C) and as high as 100°F (38°C). However, it prefers temperatures between 60°F to 90°F (15°C to 32°C).
Soil requirements
Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana prefers well-drained, moderately fertile soil. It can adapt to various types of soil, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. This plant can tolerate a pH range of 4.5-8.5. However, for optimal growth, a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of 6.0-7.5 is recommended. It can also tolerate periods of drought once it's established, but regular watering is recommended during its early stages of growth.
Cultivation Methods
Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern. is a hardy shrub that is native to the Eastern and Central regions of the United States. It can be grown in a variety of soil types, including clay, loamy, and sandy soils. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged.
The ideal location for planting the shrub is in full sun or partial shade. Plant it in a spot that is protected from strong winds that can damage its branches. The plant can be propagated from seeds, cuttings, or by layering.
Watering Needs
Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern. does not require frequent watering. The plant can tolerate drought conditions once it is established. Water the plant thoroughly when you first plant it in its new location to help it establish its roots. After that, water the shrub occasionally during prolonged dry spells.
A helpful watering tip is to water the plant deeply and infrequently to encourage its deep root growth. This will help it access water and nutrients from the soil more efficiently.
Fertilization
Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern. does not require a lot of fertilizer. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer during the spring when new growth appears. It would be best if you used a fertilizer that has a higher percentage of phosphorus and potassium rather than nitrogen. Too much nitrogen can promote excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers and fruit.
Pruning
Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern. requires minimal pruning as it is a slow-growing plant. However, pruning can be done periodically to remove dead or damaged branches. The best time to prune is during the early spring before the plant begins to produce new growth.
Trim the shrub to create a more desirable shape or to control its size. You can use pruning shears to selectively remove individual stems or branches. Avoid cutting back too much of the shrub, as it can take some time for it to recover and regrow.
Propagation of Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana
Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern. can be propagated by both seed and cuttings.
Seed propagation
Seeds of Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern. can be sown in the fall or spring. Soaking the seeds overnight in water before sowing can help improve germination rates. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination occurs.
It may take up to a year for the seeds to germinate, and the young seedlings should be kept in a protected area until they are large enough to be planted in their permanent location.
Cutting propagation
Cuttings of Bumelia lycioides var. virginiana Fern. can be taken in the summer and fall. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and taken from the current year's growth. The lower leaves should be removed, and the wound at the base of the cutting should be treated with rooting hormone.
The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix, and kept in a humid environment until they root. Bottom heat can also help improve rooting rates. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions and transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease Management
Bumelia lycioides (L.) Pers. var. virginiana Fern. is susceptible to a few diseases that can cause significant damage to the plant. One such disease is leaf spot. The fungus causing leaf spot infects the leaves, and the infected leaves develop small, dark brown spots. Typically, the disease does not kill the plant, but it can weaken it. To manage the disease, remove infected leaves regularly and ensure the plant is well-ventilated to reduce humidity levels. Use fungicides to treat the disease, and if the condition persists, contact a professional for more robust management measures.
Anthracnose is another common fungal disease that affects Bumelia lycioides (L.) Pers. var. virginiana Fern. Anthracnose-causing fungus attacks the branches, stems, and leaves, leading to necrosis and distortion. The fungus can survive in plant debris for months and spread rapidly in moist conditions. To manage the disease, plant resistant varieties or use fungicides before the infection takes root. Remove all plant debris, prune infected plant parts, and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
Bumelia lycioides (L.) Pers. var. virginiana Fern. is also susceptible to pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. One of the most damaging pests is the spider mite, which can cause significant defoliation if not adequately managed. Spider mites often thrive in hot and dry conditions and can be identified by their webbing on the leaves. To manage spider mites, hose down the leaves regularly to increase humidity and reduce webbing. Use insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, or miticides, depending on the severity of the infestation.
Another common pest that affects Bumelia lycioides (L.) Pers. var. virginiana Fern. is the mealybug. Mealybugs are small, crawling insects that attack the plant stems, leaves, and fruit to drain sap, causing the plant to wilt and die. They also secrete sticky honeydew that attracts ants and fungus. To manage the infestation, use neem oil or insecticidal soaps to kill the insects' protective wax. Spray the entire plant, including the undersides of leaves and stems, with the insecticide. For severe infestations, use systematic pesticides and contact a professional for assistance.
