Overview
Campylospermum calophyllum (Hook.f.) Tiegh. is a species of plant in the family Malvaceae, native to the rainforests of Central and South America. It is also known by its common names, including huicungo, macanilla, and manaca. The plant has been used for centuries by indigenous people for medicinal purposes, such as treating respiratory ailments and skin conditions.
Appearance
Campylospermum calophyllum is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach a height of up to 15 meters. Its bark is grayish-brown and smooth, and its leaves are dark green and leathery, with a distinct glossy sheen. The plant produces small, yellow flowers with five petals, which turn into woody, five-angled capsules containing numerous seeds.
Uses
The bark, leaves, and roots of Campylospermum calophyllum have been traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections, fever, diarrhea, dysentery, and skin problems. The plant also has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. In addition, the oil extracted from its seeds is used in the cosmetic industry for its emollient and moisturizing properties.
In recent years, Campylospermum calophyllum has gained interest for its potential as a source of bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties. Research has revealed that the plant contains flavonoids, terpenes, and other compounds that may have promising therapeutic applications.
The conservation status of Campylospermum calophyllum is currently classified as "least concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, deforestation and habitat loss pose a threat to the species, which highlights the importance of sustainable management of the plant and its habitat.
Light Requirements
Campylospermum calophyllum (Hook.f.) Tiegh. is a shade-loving plant species that thrives in bright but indirect sunlight. It prefers a bright, diffused light environment such as that found under the canopy of trees or in lightly shaded areas. Direct sunlight exposure can be detrimental to the growth of the plant, leading to sunburn, leaf discoloration, and stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
Campylospermum calophyllum (Hook.f.) Tiegh. is a tropical plant that requires warm conditions to grow optimally. The ideal temperature range for the growth of this plant is between 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures above 30°C can cause heat stress, leading to wilting and leaf scorching. On the other hand, temperatures below 20°C can result in slowed growth and even death.
Soil Requirements
Campylospermum calophyllum (Hook.f.) Tiegh. prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It grows well in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant requires adequate moisture in the soil, but it should not be waterlogged as this can lead to root rot. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging between 5.5 to 7.0.
Cultivation methods
Campylospermum calophyllum (Hook.f.) Tiegh. is a plant that thrives in a moist subtropical climate. It requires full sunlight and well-drained, moderately fertile soil. It can thrive in acidic or slightly alkaline soil but prefers well-drained soils with organic matter.
The plant is propagated through seeds or cuttings. If you want to propagate it through seedlings, you can sow the seeds in pots or seedbeds filled with sandy soil in spring. When propagating through cuttings, take semi-hardwood cuttings in late spring or early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone before planting them in soil mixed with peat or sand.
Watering needs
Campylospermum calophyllum requires moderate watering, and the frequency of watering depends on the season and the climate. During the growing season (spring and summer), the soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. In fall and winter, the watering can be reduced but not to the extent of drying it out. The plant should not be allowed to sit in standing water as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Campylospermum calophyllum prefers a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of NPK 10-10-10 to promote healthy growth. The plant should be fertilized twice a year, once in early spring and again in mid-summer. During the first year of planting, only the recommended amount of fertilizer should be used to avoid overfertilization.
Pruning
Pruning is not an essential part of Campylospermum calophyllum maintenance, but it can help shape the plant and maintain the desired size. Pruning can be done in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins to remove the dead, damaged, or diseased branches. The plant can also be pruned to control the size if it outgrows the available space. Always use clean and sterilized pruning equipment to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Campylospermum calophyllum
Campylospermum calophyllum is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific islands. It is commonly propagated through seeds and cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Campylospermum calophyllum are collected from mature fruits and sown in a suitable potting mix. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist until germination occurs. The ideal temperature for germination is 20-25°C. Germination usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Propagation through Cuttings
Campylospermum calophyllum can be easily propagated through cuttings taken from mature plants. Healthy stem cuttings of about 10-15cm length with 2-3 nodes are collected during the growing season. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The planted cuttings should be kept moist and placed in a shaded area until they develop roots. Rooting usually takes 2-3 weeks.
Both seed propagation and cutting propagation can be successful with Campylospermum calophyllum, but the success rate and growth rate may vary depending on the method used.
Disease Management
Campylospermum calophyllum is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, this plant may suffer from some diseases such as leaf spot, anthracnose, and root rot.
Leaf spot: It is a fungal disease that appears as small, circular, and dark spots on leaves. In severe cases, the spots may increase in size and limit photosynthesis. To manage this disease, it is advisable to remove infected leaves, ensure proper drainage, and provide adequate air circulation. Use of fungicides can also help control leaf spots.
Anthracnose: This disease is caused by fungi that affect the leaves, stem, and fruits. Symptoms include the appearance of brown or black lesions on the leaves, stem, and fruit. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy all infected plant parts and practice crop rotation.
Root rot: Root rot can be caused by both fungi and bacteria. Symptoms of this disease include poor growth, yellowing of the leaves, and wilting. Planting in well-drained soil, practicing crop rotation, and avoiding overwatering can help prevent root rot. Use of fungicides can help in severe cases of root rot.
Pest Management
Campylospermum calophyllum is not highly susceptible to pests. However, it may be attacked by some pests such as mealybugs and spider mites.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, and fluffy insects that infect the leaves and stems of plants. They can cause stunted growth and the yellowing of leaves. To manage mealybugs, you can use insecticidal soaps or introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can cause serious damage to plants. They pierce the plant cells, causing yellowing and browning of the leaves and fruits. To manage spider mites, keep the plants well-watered and provide adequate humidity. Introduce natural predators such as predatory mites and ladybugs as they feed on spider mites.
