Description of Canarium macrophyllum Oliv.
Canarium macrophyllum Oliv. is a species of tree which is also commonly known as the Philippine elemi or pili tree. It belongs to the family Burseraceae and is primarily found in Southeast Asia, specifically in the Philippines.
General Appearance
The Philippine elemi tree is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20-30 meters tall. It has a cone-shaped crown, and its leaves are large, lush, and elongated, with a length of up to 40 cm. The tree has a thick trunk that can measure up to 2 meters in diameter. The bark is smooth and gray in color.
The tree bears fruits that resemble large berries, with a length of up to 4 cm and a diameter of 3 cm. The fruit has a hard, woody shell, which encases a seed or kernel that is edible and nutritious.
Uses
The pili tree has several uses, both commercial and traditional. The kernel or nut is rich in oil, making it a popular ingredient for various products, such as confectionery, cooking oil, soap, and cosmetics. The boiled and roasted young leaves are also used as a vegetable or as a flavoring for dishes.
Aside from its economic value, the pili tree also has cultural significance among several indigenous communities in the Philippines. The resin extracted from the tree is used for medicinal purposes, such as treating wounds, cough, and colds. It is also used as a fragrance in incense. The bark of the tree is used as a source of fiber for making ropes and textiles.
Conclusion
The Canarium macrophyllum Oliv., or Philippine elemi, is an important tree species native to Southeast Asia, primarily the Philippines. It is valued for its various commercial and traditional uses, such as for food, oil, medicine, and cultural practices. The pili tree's unique traits and benefits contribute to its economic and cultural significance in the region.
Light Requirements
Canarium macrophyllum Oliv. grows best in partial shade to full sun. However, it can also tolerate heavy shade conditions but growth may be slower under such conditions. When planted in full sun, it is crucial to keep the soil moist to avoid leaf burn.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm and humid conditions with temperatures ranging from 18-30°C. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but not extreme cold. Frost and freezing temperatures can damage the leaves, stems, and fruits.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow on a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The ideal soil pH range for the plant is 5.5-7.0. Canarium macrophyllum Oliv. has a deep root system, so the soil should be at least 1m deep to allow for proper root development.
Cultivation methods
Canarium macrophyllum Oliv., also known as the Philippine elemi, can be cultivated either through seeds or through vegetative propagation. If planting from seeds, select healthy and mature seeds with hard shells. Soak them in water for at least 24 hours before planting them in well-draining loamy soil. Cover the soil with a thin layer of mulch to retain moisture.
Vegetative propagation can be done through air layering or stem cuttings. Select healthy and mature branches with adequate nodes. Make a diagonal cut at the bottom of the branch and coat it with a rooting hormone before planting it in a well-draining soil mixture.
Watering needs
Canarium macrophyllum requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be done once or twice a week in the absence of rain. Adjust the frequency of watering depending on the season and the weather conditions. Make sure not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Canarium macrophyllum needs fertilizers that are high in nitrogen during the first year of growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 every three months during the first year. During the second year, switch to a fertilizer that is high in phosphorus and potassium, with an NPK ratio of 5-10-10. Apply the fertilizer every four months during the second year of growth.
Pruning
Pruning Canarium macrophyllum should be done during the dormant season to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. This will help prevent the spread of diseases and pests and will improve the plant's overall health. Pruning can also be done to shape the plant and to promote the growth of lateral branches. However, avoid excessive pruning as this can lead to stunted growth and low yield.
Propagation of Canarium macrophyllum Oliv.
Canarium macrophyllum Oliv., also known as the Philippine elemi or pili tree, is a tropical tree species native to Southeast Asia. It is known for its valuable wood, edible nuts, and aromatic resin. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods. Here are some common ways to propagate Canarium macrophyllum Oliv.:
Seed Propagation
The easiest method of propagating Canarium macrophyllum Oliv. is through seed propagation. The seeds of Canarium macrophyllum Oliv. should be planted in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 2-3 inches and should germinate in 14-21 days. However, germination rates for seed propagation are often low, and the seeds may take up to three years to produce fruit.
Cutting Propagation
Another method of propagation is through cutting propagation. This is often used for commercial propagation as the grown tree will bear fruits much sooner than seeds. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, young branches with mature leaves. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should have at least 3 nodes. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and then planted in well-draining soil. Rooting of the cuttings typically take around 4-6 months.
Air Layering
Air layering is often done for mature trees with well-established branches as this method does not require transplanting of the propagated cutting. Air layering involves wrapping the branch of the plant with soil or moss to promote the growth of roots. Once roots have developed, the branch can be cut under the new roots from the plant. The propagation process typically takes a few months to complete.
In conclusion, Canarium macrophyllum Oliv. can be propagated through seed, cutting, and air layering methods. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, but the most effective method can vary depending on the plant's age and the desired outcome. Regardless of which method you choose, it's essential to take good care of the plant to ensure healthy growth and development.
Disease and Pest Management for Canarium macrophyllum Oliv.
Canarium macrophyllum Oliv., also known as Manila elemi, is a tree species that is native to the Philippines. The tree is grown for its resin which is used in the manufacture of varnishes, perfumes, and other products. However, the plant is susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests that can reduce its health and productivity. Effective disease and pest management are essential to maintain the health and productivity of Canarium macrophyllum Oliv.
Common Diseases
Canarium macrophyllum Oliv. is susceptible to several fungal diseases that can affect its health and yield. The most common fungal diseases that affect this plant are anthracnose, stem canker, and black spot. Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown or blackish lesions on the leaves and twigs of the plant. Stem canker causes the stem of the plant to become discolored and can lead to wilting. Black spot causes black spots and discoloration on the leaves of the plant.
Common Pests
There are several pests that can attack Canarium macrophyllum Oliv. The most common pests are leaf-eating caterpillars, scales, and mealybugs. Leaf-eating caterpillars can cause defoliation and stunted growth of the plant. Scales can damage the leaves of the plant and cause them to become discolored. Mealybugs can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves, and can also cause the plant to become more susceptible to diseases.
Pest and Disease Management Techniques
The following techniques can be used to manage diseases and pests in Canarium macrophyllum Oliv.:
- Pruning: Prune the affected parts of the plant if you notice any signs of fungal infection or pest infestation. This technique helps prevent the spread of diseases and pests to the other parts of the plant.
- Biological control: Use natural predators to control pest infestations. For instance, parasitic wasps can help control leaf-eating caterpillars.
- Chemical control: Use fungicides and insecticides to control diseases and pests. Note that chemical use should be the last resort, and the product should be used in accordance with instructions.
- Good sanitation: Keep the area around your Canarium macrophyllum Oliv. tree clean to prevent the buildup of diseases and pests. Remove fallen leaves and debris regularly.
Effective disease and pest management techniques can help prevent and manage diseases and pests that affect Canarium macrophyllum Oliv. Follow the recommended techniques to maintain the health and productivity of your plants.
