Origin and Common Names
Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L. is a tree species that belongs to the family Calophyllaceae. It is commonly known as "Wild Mammy Apple," "Crabwood," "Santa Maria," and "Borneo Mahogany." The species is native to tropical regions of the Americas, Africa, and Asia.
General Appearance
The Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L. tree grows up to 25 meters tall, with a trunk that can reach up to 2 meters in diameter. Its bark is rough, with vertical fissures, and a dark brown to grayish color. The leaves are elliptical, glossy, and measure between 8 to 20 cm in length and 5 to 10 cm in width. The tree produces flowers that are white, fragrant, and up to 3 cm in diameter. The fruit is a green or yellow drupe that measures up to 4 cm in diameter.
Uses
Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L. has various medicinal uses, including the treatment of skin conditions, such as leprosy and psoriasis, and the reduction of inflammation and pain in joints and muscles. The tree's bark and leaves can also be used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and fever. Additionally, the oil extracted from the tree's seeds is commonly used in the cosmetic industry as a moisturizer and to promote healthy skin. The wood of the tree is dense and durable and can be used for construction and furniture.
Light Requirements
The plant Calophyllum calaba Jacq. requires full to partial sunlight to grow. It can tolerate shade, but prolonged periods in the shade may lead to stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for the growth of Calophyllum calaba Jacq. is between 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 15°C may hinder growth, while temperatures above 35°C may cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Calophyllum calaba Jacq. prefers well-drained soils that are loamy or sandy, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate salty soils but may have reduced growth and yield in such conditions. Regular watering is essential for proper growth and development of the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L.
Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L. is a flowering plant that is native to tropical regions such as the Caribbean, Central America, and South America. It is commonly known as the Santa Maria, oil nut tree, or Alexandrian laurel. The plant is easy to cultivate and grows well in warm climates with abundant rainfall.
To cultivate Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L., begin by preparing the site. Choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight and is well-draining. The plant thrives in soil that is rich in organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure. Dig a hole twice as wide and deep as the plant's root ball.
Next, plant the Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L. in the prepared hole and backfill it with soil. Water the plant thoroughly and add a layer of mulch around its base to help retain moisture.
Watering Needs for Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L.
Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L. requires regular watering to maintain healthy growth. The plant prefers moist soil, but it is important not to overwater it as this can lead to root rot.
Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter months. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering intervals. If the plant begins to wilt or the soil is overly dry, increase the watering frequency.
Fertilization of Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L.
Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L. benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and flowering. During the growing season, feed the plant every four to six weeks with a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to the build-up of salts in the soil, which can harm the roots and inhibit growth.
Pruning Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L.
Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L. is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal pruning. However, you can prune the plant to remove any dead or diseased branches or to shape it according to your desired aesthetic.
Prune the plant in the early spring before new growth begins. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to make the cuts, and be sure to cut just above a leaf node. Avoid pruning the plant during the fall or winter months, as this can interfere with its ability to flower in the spring.
Propagation of Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L.
Calophyllum calaba Jacq., non L., also known as Santa Maria or Alexandrian laurel, is a tropical plant native to Central and South America, West Africa, and the Caribbean islands. It is a tree that can grow up to 25 meters tall and has lance-shaped leaves and white, fragrant flowers. The plant produces fruit that contains a single seed, which is used to propagate the species.
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Calophyllum calaba is through seed germination. The seeds should be taken from ripe fruits, washed in clean water, and then dried in the sun. Once the seeds are dry, they can be stored in a cool and dry place until they are ready to be planted.
The seeds should be soaked overnight in warm water, after which they can be planted in a mixture of sand and peat moss. The planting depth should be about 1 inch, and the pots should be placed in a warm and humid location, with temperatures around 25-32°C. The seedlings should emerge in about 2-4 weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation of Calophyllum calaba through cuttings is also possible, but it is more challenging than seed propagation. Semi-hardwood cuttings, about 15-20 cm long, should be taken from the tree during the summer months. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a mixture of perlite and peat moss. The pots should be kept in a warm and humid location, with temperatures around 25-32°C.
The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a shaded area until they root. This process can take several months. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into individual pots and grown until they are large enough to be planted outside.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method that can be used to propagate Calophyllum calaba. This method involves making a cut in the stem of the tree and wrapping it with sphagnum moss and plastic wrap. The moss should be kept moist, and roots should start to grow from the cut area after a few weeks.
Once roots have formed, the branch can be cut from the main tree and planted in a pot with a mixture of perlite and peat moss. The pot should be kept in a warm and humid location until the plant is established.
Overall, propagation of Calophyllum calaba can be done through seed germination, cutting propagation, and air layering. Each method has its own challenges, but with proper care and attention, this tropical plant can successfully be propagated.
Disease Management
Calophyllum calaba Jacq. is relatively resistant to diseases. However, some common diseases that can affect the plant include powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot.
Powdery mildew can be managed by practicing proper sanitation and good air circulation around the plant. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Leaf spot is usually caused by fungal infections or bacterial infections. Affected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can be applied to prevent further spread.
Root rot can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is not overwatered or in poorly-drained soil. Applying fungicides to the soil is also an effective management practice.
Pest Management
Calophyllum calaba Jacq. is vulnerable to a number of pests. Common pests that can affect the plant include mealybugs, spider mites, scale insects, and caterpillars.
Mealybugs can be managed by manually removing them or using insecticidal soap to control their population. Neem oil can also be used to prevent further infestation.
Spider mites can be managed by spraying the affected plant parts with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Predatory mites can also be used to control their population.
Scale insects can be removed by hand-picking them or using insecticidal soap. Applying horticultural oil can also help to suffocate the pests and prevent further spread.
Caterpillars can be managed by picking them off the plant by hand or using Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide.
In summary, proper sanitation, good air circulation, and appropriate pesticide management practices can help to prevent and control diseases and pests for Calophyllum calaba Jacq.
