Overview of Canarium buettneri Engl.
Canarium buettneri Engl. is a species of tropical tree in the Burseraceae family. It is native to the Philippines and can be found in primary forests, especially in the provinces of Palawan, Quezon, and Camarines Norte.
Common names
Canarium buettneri Engl. has several common names, including Dao, white pili, and ivory-nut.
Appearance
The tree of Canarium buettneri Engl. can grow up to 35 meters tall. It has gray-brown bark, and its leaves are alternate, pinnate, and 30 to 60 centimeters long. The flowers of the tree are small, yellow-green, and fragrant, and it blooms from May to June. Its fruit is a drupe that measures 3 to 4 centimeters in diameter and has a thick, hard shell that encases a single seed that is commonly used for consumption.
Uses
The seed of Canarium buettneri Engl. contains a white kernel that is edible and commonly used as a snack in the Philippines. The nut can also be pressed to extract a flavorful oil that is used in the food industry. In addition, the tree's resin has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as rheumatism, ulcers, and skin infections. Moreover, the wood of Canarium buettneri Engl. is used for construction, furniture, and musical instruments.
Overall, Canarium buettneri Engl. is an important and useful plant in the Philippines.Growth Conditions of Canarium buettneri Engl.
Light: Canarium buettneri requires full sunlight for optimal growth and development. It cannot tolerate shaded conditions and hence must be planted in an open area free from obstruction by taller trees or structures.
Temperature: This plant thrives in warm, humid conditions typical of tropical rainforests. The temperature range should be between 22-28°C (72-82°F) throughout the year. If the temperature drops below 18°C (64°F), the growth of the plant is significantly affected, and it may experience stunted growth.
Soil: Canarium buettneri prefers deep, well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. The soils should have a pH range of 5-7. In areas with shallow soils, planting in raised beds can improve drainage and aeration. Additionally, the plant grows best in soils that are high in organic matter, and it should be fertilized regularly to maintain its vigor and overall health.
Water: Adequate water is necessary for Canarium buettneri's growth and fruit production. The plant requires frequent watering during the dry season, and a well-regulated irrigation system is recommended. Waterlogged soils should be avoided as they can lead to root rot and negatively affect the plant's growth.
Humidity: Canarium buettneri thrives in high humidity of about 70%. Thus, it is essential to maintain a humid environment around this plant, especially during the dry season when humidity levels drop.
Wind: Strong winds can break and uproot the young plant or even waste the matured plants thus affecting their growth. It should be planted in areas that are protected from high wind conditions.
Cultivation Methods
Canarium buettneri Engl., commonly known as the Dabai tree or Black olive tree, can be cultivated in tropical regions. It thrives well in well-drained soils and areas receiving plenty of sunshine. The tree is propagated through seeds and grafting.
The best time to plant the Dabai tree is at the beginning of the rainy season. The seedlings should be planted in holes that are twice the size of their root balls and keep the soil moist around the tree to promote growth.
Watering Needs
For optimal growth and fruit production of the Dabai tree, adequate water supply is essential. Newly planted trees require regular watering, especially during the dry season, to establish strong roots. A fully mature tree can withstand occasional drought but still needs regular watering to produce healthy fruits.
The amount of water required varies depending on soil type, climate conditions, and tree age. It is recommended to water the tree deeply, preferably using drip irrigation to reduce water wastage.
Fertilization
Canarium buettneri Engl. requires regular fertilization to thrive well and produce quality fruits. Soil nutrients in tropical regions are usually low and quickly get depleted by the fast-growing Dabai tree. Organic fertilizers rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied at least twice a year.
The timing of fertilizer application is critical to ensure maximum nutrient uptake. The first application should be done during tree dormancy before budbreak, and the second application should be done after harvesting the fruits.
Pruning
Pruning is essential in maintaining the shape and size of the Dabai tree and ensuring maximum fruit production. The best time to prune the tree is during the dormant season when the tree is not actively growing. Old and diseased branches should be removed, and branches that grow vertically should be cut to encourage more lateral growth.
To prevent scarring, cuts on the tree should be made at an angle, and the wound should be treated with a fungicide. It is also essential to sterilize the pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases among trees.
Propagation of Canarium buettneri Engl.
Canarium buettneri Engl., commonly known as the Yellow latex almond, is a specific plant found in the tropical forests of the Philippines. It is considered to be a high-value tree species due to its economic and cultural importance. Propagation of the species is usually done through sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
Propagation of Canarium buettneri through seeds is the most common method. Seeds from mature fruits are collected and sown in a nursery bed during the rainy season. The soil should be well-draining, fertile, and moist. The seeds are sown shallowly, and they germinate after two weeks.
The seedlings can be transplanted when they attain a height of 1 foot, and they can grow up to 2-3 feet in a year. Before transplanting, a hole is dug in the planting site at least a foot deeper than the seedling's root ball. The hole is filled with fertile soil mixed with organic matter. Care is taken to ensure that the soil does not compact, and the plant is watered regularly.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation of Canarium buettneri can be done through various methods such as cutting, layering, and budding.
Cuttings: Semi-ripe and hardwood cuttings can be selected during the dry season. The cuttings are dipped in rooting hormone, planted in a rooting medium, and put in a greenhouse or under mist. After 3-4 weeks, they will root and can be transplanted into individual bags.
Layering: Low branches that touch the soil can be pulled down and covered with the rooting medium. After the roots have developed, the layers can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location.
Budding: T-budding can be done when the seedlings reach 1-year-old. A bud from a selected scion is inserted under the bark of the rootstock seedling. The bud is then protected with a bud cap until it begins to grow.
Overall, Canarium buettneri is a valuable plant due to its many uses. Whether it is for commercial purposes or personal use, propagation is an essential aspect of the plant's continued growth and survival.
Disease and Pest Management for Canarium Buettneri Engl.
Canarium buettneri Engl. is a species of plant known for its high-quality wood and nuts used for food and cosmetics manufacturing. This plant is generally low-maintenance and disease-resistant, but it is still susceptible to certain pests and diseases that can cause harm to its growth and productivity.
Common Diseases Affecting Canarium Buettneri Engl.
One of the most common diseases that can affect Canarium buettneri Engl. is leaf spot. This fungal disease usually appears as small, circular brown spots on the leaves that can merge and cause the leaf to fall off. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune the affected leaves and avoid overwatering the plant. Applying a fungicide to the plant can also be helpful in preventing the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect Canarium buettneri Engl. is root rot. This disease is caused by a fungus that attacks the roots of the plant and causes them to become dark, mushy, and eventually rot. To manage this disease, it is important to ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil has good drainage. It is also recommended to remove any infected roots and apply a fungicide to prevent further damage.
Common Pests Affecting Canarium Buettneri Engl.
One of the most common pests that can affect Canarium buettneri Engl. is the mealybug. These small insects look like cottony masses and can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage this pest, it is recommended to remove the affected parts of the plant and apply insecticidal soap or oil to the plant regularly.
Another pest that can affect Canarium buettneri Engl. is the palm weevil. This beetle can cause significant damage to the trunk of the plant and compromise its structural integrity. To manage this pest, it is important to monitor the plant regularly and remove any infected parts. Applying insecticides can also be helpful in preventing further damage.
Conclusion
Keeping Canarium buettneri Engl. healthy and free from pests and diseases is crucial for its growth and productivity. Proper management and prevention strategies can go a long way in ensuring the longevity and success of this plant.
