Origin
Bumelia lycioides, commonly known as buckthorn bully or woollybucket bumelia, is a deciduous tree native to the southern and eastern United States, from Virginia to Florida and westward to Texas and Kansas. It is a member of the family Sapotaceae and is closely related to the ebony tree.
Common Names
In addition to buckthorn bully and woollybucket bumelia, this plant is also called by a variety of other common names, such as gum bumelia, common buckthorn, cotton gum, and more.
Uses
The Bumelia lycioides is an important plant for wildlife as it provides food and habitat for a variety of birds and mammals. The fruit of the plant is consumed by many birds, white-tailed deer, squirrels, raccoons, and opossums. Additionally, the wood of the tree is commonly used for making furniture, tool handles, and small crafts. The tree's bark has also been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, cuts, burns, and other wounds.
General Appearance
The Bumelia lycioides is a small to medium-sized tree that grows up to 40 feet tall and has a spread of about 20 feet. It typically has a rounded crown and a straight trunk that can be up to 18 inches in diameter. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate to elliptic in shape, with a glossy dark green surface and a pale green underside. The bark of young trees is smooth and gray, and as they age, it develops deep furrows and scaly ridges. The small and inconspicuous flowers bloom in the spring, and the fruit is a drupe about 1 inch long, green, and turns black when fully ripe in the fall.
Growth Conditions for Bumelia lycioides
Bumelia lycioides, commonly known as the Gum bumelia or more commonly referred to as Buckthorn bumelia, is a small tree or shrub that is predominantly found in the southeastern states of the United States. When cultivating these trees, it is important to consider the growth conditions that are favorable for the plant's growth and development.
Light Requirements
Bumelia lycioides performs best when cultivated in full sun or partial shade. In its natural habitat, it can be found in open woodlands, savannas, and prairies, which implies that the plant does not tolerate heavy shade. Therefore, it is essential that the plant is sited in a location that receives an adequate amount of sunlight to thrive.
Soil Requirements
Bumelia lycioides can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it prefers slightly acidic soils with good drainage. Soils that are too alkaline or poorly drained may cause root rot, which can severely damage the plant. It is recommended to plant Bumelia lycioides in soils that are rich in organic matter and well-drained to promote healthy growth.
Temperature Requirements
Bumelia lycioides is a hardy plant that can tolerate both high and low temperatures. However, it performs best when grown in regions with a warm climate. In colder regions, the plant may experience dieback during winter, so it is recommended to protect the plant during the cold months. The ideal temperature range for Bumelia lycioides is between 65-90°F (18-32°C).
Watering Requirements
Bumelia lycioides prefers moist soils, but it can also tolerate moderate droughts once established. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can cause root rot and other fungal diseases. It is recommended to water the plant deeply at least once a week during dry periods and avoid watering the foliage.
Fertilizer Requirements
The plant does not require regular fertilization if grown in soil that is rich in organic matter. However, for optimal growth and development, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied once or twice a year during the growing season. It is important not to over-fertilize Bumelia lycioides as this can cause excessive vegetative growth and reduce fruit production.
Cultivation
Bumelia lycioides, commonly known as the Texas Buckthorn or the Woolly Buckthorn, is a small tree or large shrub native to Southern and Central United States. To cultivate this plant, it is crucial to ensure that it receives sufficient sunlight, which typically requires a location with full sun to partial shade. It is tolerant of a variety of soils, including sandy, clay, or loamy, but it is essential to ensure that the soil is well-drained.
Watering Needs
Bumelia lycioides prefers moist soil but can survive periods of drought once established. It is vital to ensure that the plant is watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Bumelia lycioides does not require much fertilization, and excess nutrients can damage the plant. However, it is recommended to fertilize with a balanced slow-release fertilizer once a year, during the growing season. It is best to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the package.
Pruning
Bumelia lycioides is relatively low-maintenance, but pruning can help control its growth and shape. It is best to prune it during late winter or early spring, just before the new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and cut back any overgrown or wayward stems. It is essential to use sharp, clean tools to prevent any disease or pests from entering the plant.
Propagation of Bumelia lycioides
Bumelia lycioides, commonly known as southern buckthorn, is a small deciduous tree or shrub that is native to the southeastern United States. It produces fragrant white flowers in the spring and has attractive dark green foliage that turns yellow-gold in the fall. If you want to propagate Bumelia lycioides, you have several options to choose from.
Propagation by seeds
Bumelia lycioides can be propagated from seeds, but it requires some patience and attention to detail. The best time to collect the seeds is in the fall when the fruit is ripe. The seeds must be stratified to break dormancy. They can be stratified naturally by sowing them in the fall or artificially by placing them in a moist medium like peat moss or vermiculite in the refrigerator for 60-90 days. Once the seeds have been stratified, they can be sown in pots or directly in the ground in the spring.
Propagation by cuttings
Bumelia lycioides can also be propagated from cuttings taken in the early summer when the new growth is still succulent. Take a cutting about 6 inches long and remove the leaves from the bottom half. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a bright, indirect light. In a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots and be ready for transplanting.
Propagation by layering
Bumelia lycioides can also be propagated by layering. Choose a low-hanging branch in the early spring and bend it down to the ground. Make a small notch in the bark and cover it with soil or a mixture of soil and peat moss. Keep the soil moist and wait for roots to develop. Once the new plant is established, you can cut it away from the parent plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Bumelia lycioides
Bumelia lycioides, commonly known as the gum bumelia or the chittamwood tree, is a species of the flowering plant that belongs to the family Sapotaceae. This plant is relatively disease and pest resistant. However, there are some common diseases and pests that may affect the gum bumelia, and it is crucial to manage them to ensure the plant's health and growth.
Common Diseases
Canker Disease: Bumelia lycioides can be affected by the canker disease, which may cause localized damage, twig dieback, and leaf blight. The disease may be caused by fungi or bacteria that infect the bark and cambium layer of the tree. To manage this disease, prune the infected parts and remove the dead wood to avoid further damage.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It may cause the plant to wilt, decline in vigor, and eventually die. To avoid root rot, plant the gum bumelia in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Common Pests
Scale Insects: Scale insects are sap-sucking insects that may cause the leaves of the gum bumelia to yellow and wilt. They may leave a sticky residue on the leaves, attracting ants and other pests. To manage scale insects, prune the affected parts and apply horticultural oils or insecticide sprays.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths or butterflies. They may feed on the leaves of the gum bumelia, causing significant damage. To manage caterpillars, pick them off by hand and apply insecticide sprays.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that may cause the leaves of the plant to have a stippled appearance. They may also spin webs on the leaves, making them look dirty. To manage spider mites, apply miticide sprays or hose the plant down with water to remove them.
In conclusion, proactive management of diseases and pests is necessary to maintain the health and growth of the gum bumelia. Regular inspection and prompt action will prevent significant damage to the plant and ensure its longevity.
