Origin and Common Names
Bursera fagaroides (Kunth) Engl. var. elongata McVaugh & Rzed. is a species of evergreen tree or shrub that belongs to the family Burseraceae. The plant is native to Mexico, specifically in the states of Chihuahua, Durango, and Sonora. It is commonly known as Torote Colorado, Torote Prieto, Palo Santo, or Mexican Frankincense.
Appearance
The plant can reach a height of up to 20 feet and has a spread of 15 feet at maturity. Its bark is reddish-brown and peels off in thin sheets, revealing a smooth surface. The leaves are small, oval-shaped, and alternate, measuring about 0.5 to 1.5 cm in length. The plant produces numerous small flowers, which are greenish-white in color and have a diameter of about 3 mm. The fruit is a round or ovoid drupe that measures about 12 mm long and contains a single seed.
Uses
The Torote Colorado has various medicinal and cultural uses. The resin or sap of the plant is used in traditional medicines for treating digestive, respiratory, and skin problems. It is also used as a natural incense or smudge for spiritual cleansing and as a fragrance in perfumes. The wood of the tree is durable and used in carpentry and as firewood. The tree is also a favored source of food for desert animals such as collared peccaries, rodents, and birds.
Light requirements
Bursera fagaroides var. elongata grows best in areas with full sun exposure. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. However, it can tolerate some shade, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Temperature requirements
The plant prefers warm to hot temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 35°C (59°F to 95°F). It can withstand occasional dips in temperature, but it is not suited for regions with cold winters or frost. The ideal temperature for Bursera fagaroides var. elongata growth would be around 20 to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
Soil requirements
Bursera fagaroides var. elongata requires well-draining soil that is gritty and sandy. It can tolerate a range of soil pH, but prefers neutral to slightly alkaline conditions with a pH range of 6.5-8.5. The plant does not tolerate wet or waterlogged soil, so it is essential to avoid overwatering during the growing season.
Cultivation methods
Bursera fagaroides (Kunth) Engl. var. elongata McVaugh & Rzed. is a highly ornamental plant that is native to Mexico. It is a hardy and drought-tolerant plant that grows well in warm and arid climates. The plant is usually propagated by seed, which should be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The seedlings should be watered regularly and kept in a warm and sunny location to encourage rapid growth.
Watering needs
Bursera fagaroides (Kunth) Engl. var. elongata McVaugh & Rzed. is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require frequent watering. However, it is important to water the plant regularly during its initial growth period to ensure that the soil around the roots remains moist. Once established, the plant should be watered sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings to avoid waterlogging.
Fertilization
Bursera fagaroides (Kunth) Engl. var. elongata McVaugh & Rzed. does not require regular fertilization. However, applying a balanced fertilizer once in the spring and again in the fall can help to promote healthy growth and enhance the plant's ornamental value. It is important to avoid over-fertilization, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduce the plant's drought tolerance.
Pruning
Bursera fagaroides (Kunth) Engl. var. elongata McVaugh & Rzed. does not require regular pruning. However, removing any damaged or dead branches can help to improve the plant's overall appearance and prevent the spread of diseases. Any pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins, to avoid damaging the plant’s new growth. It is also important to wear protective clothing, as the plant can produce a sap that may cause skin irritation.
Propagation methods for Bursera fagaroides (Kunth) Engl. var. elongata McVaugh & Rzed.
Bursera fagaroides (Kunth) Engl. var. elongata McVaugh & Rzed. can be propagated from both seeds and cuttings.
Propagation from seeds
Seeds of Bursera fagaroides have a hard seed coat that can be scarified with sandpaper to improve germination rates. Soak the scarified seeds in water for 24 hours prior to sowing. Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist but not waterlogged. Seeds should be sown at a depth of 2-3 times their diameter. Germination can take anywhere from 2-6 weeks to occur.
Propagation from cuttings
Cuttings of Bursera fagaroides can be taken in the spring or early summer. Using a sharp, clean knife, take a 4-6 inch cutting from the tip of a healthy shoot. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only a few at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and insert it into a well-draining soil mix. Keep the cutting moist but not waterlogged and provide bright, indirect light. Roots should begin to form in 4-6 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Bursera Fagaroides (Kunth) Engl. var. Elongata McVaugh & Rzed.
Bursera fagaroides (Kunth) Engl. var. elongata McVaugh & Rzed. is a relatively easy plant to grow, and it isn't commonly affected by pests or diseases. However, it is important to watch out for the following issues:
Common Diseases
Anthracnose: This disease is caused by a fungus that affects the leaves of the plant, causing them to wilt and turn brown. To manage anthracnose, remove any infected leaves immediately, ensure proper drainage of the soil, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can be used if the problem persists.
Root Rot: Root rot is caused by waterlogged soil, which leads to the roots being unable to get enough oxygen. Symptoms include yellowing leaves and stunted growth. To manage root rot, ensure proper drainage of the soil, avoid overwatering, and remove any infected roots. Fungicides can be used in severe cases.
Common Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause leaves to turn yellow and fall off. They thrive in hot, dry conditions. To manage spider mites, increase humidity around the plant, spray the leaves with a jet of water to dislodge them, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, brown pests that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant. They suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, prune off any heavily infested branches, wash the plant with a solution of water and dish soap, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white insects that suck sap from the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, remove any heavily infested leaves, wash the plant with a solution of water and dish soap, and use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.
Overall, by keeping an eye out for the above diseases and pests and following the proper management techniques, Bursera fagaroides (Kunth) Engl. var. elongata McVaugh & Rzed. should remain healthy and continue to thrive.
