Overview
Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark, also known as Small's Buckthorn, is a medium-sized deciduous tree that is native to North America. It belongs to the Sapotaceae family, which is commonly known as the sapodilla family of plants.
Common names
Small's Buckthorn is commonly known by several names including Chittamwood, Gum Bumelia, Woollybucket Bumelia, Ironwood, and False Buckthorn.
Appearance
Small's Buckthorn typically grows up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide. It has a rounded crown and thick, rough bark that is gray to black in color. Its leaves are simple, alternate and ovate-shaped, with serrated edges that range in color from dark-green to yellow-green. The tree produces small, greenish-white flowers that bloom in late spring, followed by oval-shaped fruits that are black when mature.
Uses
Small's Buckthorn is widely used in landscaping as a shade tree or ornamental plant due to its attractive foliage and showy flowers. Its wood is strong and durable, making it an ideal material for furniture, tool handles, and fence posts. In addition, the tree's bark and fruits are rich in medicinal properties that make them useful in the treatment of various ailments.
Light Conditions
Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark thrives well in full sun to partial shade. However, it requires a minimum of six hours of sunlight exposure per day to support healthy growth and development. If planted in an environment with insufficient lighting, it tends to have stunted growth and produces fewer fruits compared to those planted in well-illuminated areas.
Temperature Requirements
The plant's overall growth and development are influenced by temperature conditions. Native to the southern United States, Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark tolerates a wide range of temperature, from hot summers to freezing winters. Usually, the plant begins to bloom in mid to late spring when the temperatures rise to about 50 degrees Fahrenheit. During the winter, the plant becomes dormant and sheds its leaves until the following spring.
Soil Requirements
Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark is adaptable to various soil conditions, but it thrives best in soils with good drainage. It grows well in sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, the ideal soil pH should be slightly acidic, ranging between 5.5-6.5. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soils; thus, it is essential to ensure adequate drainage to avoid waterlogging.
Cultivation Methods
Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark is a hardy plant that grows well in both the sun and partial shade. It is adaptable to different types of soil, but prefers well-drained soil. When planting, ensure the plant is placed in a hole twice the width of the root ball and at the same depth. Mulch around the base of the plant to ensure the soil retains moisture and to suppress weed growth.
Watering Needs
Although Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark is drought-tolerant, it still requires regular watering, especially during the first few weeks of planting. Water deeply, at least once or twice a week to encourage deep root growth. During periods of extended drought, water the plant more frequently to ensure it remains healthy and hydrated.
Fertilization
Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark is not a heavy feeder and does not require regular fertilization. However, for optimal growth, apply a slow-release fertilizer during the spring or early summer. While applying fertilizer, ensure it is spread evenly around the base of the plant. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive growth and reduced plant vigor.
Pruning
Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark requires minimal pruning, but if necessary, prune during the dormant season. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches to ensure healthy growth. It is best to avoid pruning during the growing season as it can stimulate new growth and reduce plant vigor. Regular pruning helps keep the plant in good shape and enhances its natural shape and beauty.
Propagation of Bumelia Smallii R.B. Clark
Bumelia Smallii R.B. Clark, commonly known as Small's bully, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the Sapotaceae family. It is native to North America and can grow up to 30 feet tall. Propagation of Bumelia Smallii R.B. Clark can be done through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation of Bumelia Smallii R.B. Clark by seeds is one of the easiest and most common methods. The seeds of the plant can be collected during fall or winter, and they need to be stratified before planting. The seeds need to be stored in the refrigerator for six to eight weeks to break their dormancy. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in pots or outdoors in well-drained soil. The seedlings should be kept in a partially shaded area and kept moist.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Bumelia Smallii R.B. Clark by cuttings can be done during the summer months. Semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken from the tips of the branches and rooted in a moist, well-draining soil mixture. The cuttings need to be kept in a sheltered location with partial shade and kept moist until they develop new roots. Once the new roots have formed, the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots or outdoors into well-drained soil.
Propagation by Grafting
Propagation of Bumelia Smallii R.B. Clark by grafting is a more advanced method that requires specialized knowledge and skills. The best time to graft is during the dormant season, usually in late winter or early spring. The scion, which is the vegetative part of the plant, and the rootstock, which is the root system of a different plant, are joined together. The scion and the rootstock should be of the same size. The grafted plants need to be kept in a warm and humid environment until they heal and begin to grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark
Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark is a plant species that can be affected by a variety of diseases and pests. Proper disease and pest management is important in maintaining the health and vigor of the plant. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that can affect Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that can cause circular brown spots on the leaves of Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead watering to prevent water from sitting on the leaves.
Root rot: Root rot is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. To manage this disease, ensure that the plant is planted in well-draining soil, and avoid overwatering.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves of Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark. To manage this disease, provide good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that suck sap from the leaves and stems of Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark. To manage this pest, wash the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can be found on the undersides of leaves. They suck sap from the plant and can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. To manage this pest, spray the plant with water or use insecticidal soap.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small, sap-sucking insects that can be found on the stems and leaves of Bumelia smallii R.B. Clark. To manage this pest, prune off heavily infested branches or use insecticidal soap.
