Overview
Canarium pimela Konig, also known as Pimela, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Burseraceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia and Borneo.
Common Names
Aside from Pimela, the plant is also known by other common names such as:
- Herba buloh betong
- Pokok engkabang gajah
- Inti engkabang
Appearance
The Canarium pimela Konig plant grows up to 25 meters in height. It has a cylindrical trunk that measures up to 50cm in diameter. The leaves are compound, alternate, and spiral. Each leaf has 4 to 9 leaflets with elliptic or oblong-lanceolate shapes. The flowers are small and whitish-greenish in color and grow in clusters. The fruit of the Pimela plant is a drupe that measures up to 4cm in diameter and has a hard, woody shell.
Uses
The Canarium pimela Konig plant has many uses. Its bark and leaves are used in traditional medicine in Southeast Asia to treat ailments like fever and malaria. The oil extracted from the seed of the plant is used in cooking, particularly in Borneo cuisine. The wood from the plant is used in construction, making furniture, and even producing musical instruments.
Growth Conditions for Canarium Pimela Konig
Light: Canarium pimela Konig typically thrives in areas with full sunlight exposure, but it can also tolerate partial shade. For optimal growth and development, it is recommended to place the plant in areas where it can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight.
Temperature: Canarium pimela Konig prefers warm and humid conditions, with an ideal temperature ranging between 20°C to 30°C. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures but is sensitive to frost and other extreme weather conditions.
Soil: The plant requires fertile and well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and the plant can thrive in various soil types, such as sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, the soil should not be waterlogged to prevent root rot.
Water: Canarium pimela Konig requires regular watering, especially during its growing season. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering the plant, as it can be prone to root rot. It is recommended to keep the soil moist but not wet.
Fertilizer: The plant benefits from regular application of fertilizer, especially during its growing season. A balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 or 20-10-10 ratio is suitable for Canarium pimela Konig. However, it is essential to follow the recommended dosage to avoid fertilizer burn.
Propagation: Canarium pimela Konig can be propagated through seed, air layering, or grafting. However, propagating through seeds can be challenging due to its slow germination rate. It is recommended to use fresh seeds and propagate during the plant's growing season for best results.
Cultivation methods for Canarium pimela Konig
Canarium pimela Konig can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be soaked in warm water for at least 24 hours before planting. Cuttings should be taken from healthy trees and rooted in well-draining soil in a shaded area. Once established, Canarium pimela Konig can tolerate full sun conditions.
Watering needs for Canarium pimela Konig
Canarium pimela Konig prefers consistent, moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the dormant period.
Fertilization for Canarium pimela Konig
Canarium pimela Konig responds well to regular fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Apply fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth and reduced fruit production.
Pruning Canarium pimela Konig
Pruning Canarium pimela Konig is not necessary for fruit production but can help maintain a desirable shape. Prune away any dead or damaged branches in the late winter or early spring before the tree enters the growing season. Avoid pruning during the growing season, as this can stimulate unwanted growth.
Propagation of Canarium pimela Konig
Canarium pimela Konig, also known as "uzi" or "jelutong," is a species of evergreen tree found in Southeast Asia. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Canarium pimela Konig is through seeds. Seeds are collected from fully matured fruits and cleaned of any flesh or pulp. They are then soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat before planting. A seedling tray filled with well-draining soil mix is used for sowing the seeds. Seeds are planted at a depth twice their size and covered lightly with soil. The tray is kept under partial shade and misted regularly. In about 2-3 weeks, germination starts to occur, and seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots once they have developed their first true leaves.
Cutting Propagation
Canarium pimela Konig can also be propagated by taking stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with at least two nodes between the leaves. The lower leaves are removed, and the stem is dipped into rooting hormone powder to promote root formation. Cuttings are planted in a well-draining soil mix, and the soil around the cutting is kept moist by covering it with a plastic bag. The humidity inside the bag encourages the cutting to root. Once roots have formed, the cutting can be transplanted to a bigger pot or directly to the ground if conditions are suitable.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method of propagating Canarium pimela Konig. Select a healthy branch, and while still attached to the parent plant, make a cut halfway through the stem. The wound is then treated with rooting hormone, and a ball of moist moss or peat is wrapped around the cut. The ball is then covered with plastic wrap to maintain moisture. Roots start to grow into the ball of moss or peat, and when they have developed, the branch can be cut below the ball, and the new plant can be transplanted into a pot or the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Canarium Pimela Konig
Canarium Pimela Konig, also known as African Elemi, is a tree that is native to Africa. It is grown for its medicinal and industrial properties, as well as for its fruits, which are used in the production of traditional African foods.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Canarium Pimela Konig trees is fungal leaf spot. This disease causes small, circular spots on the leaves, which can eventually cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage fungal leaf spot, it is important to prune infected branches and leaves, and to apply a fungicide to prevent further growth of the fungus.
Another common disease that affects Canarium Pimela Konig is stem canker. This is a fungal disease that causes lesions on the stem, which can weaken the tree and cause it to die. Management of stem canker involves pruning the infected areas, and applying a fungicide to prevent the disease from spreading.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that affect Canarium Pimela Konig trees is the spider mite. This pest feeds on the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To manage spider mites, it is important to prune infected leaves and apply a miticide to prevent further infestations.
Another common pest that affects Canarium Pimela Konig is the twig borer. This pest burrows into the tree's twigs and branches, causing damage and weakening the tree. Management of twig borers involves pruning the infected areas and applying an insecticide to prevent further infestations.
Preventive Measures
To prevent diseases and pests from affecting Canarium Pimela Konig trees, it is important to maintain good tree health through regular watering and fertilization. It is also important to prune infected branches and leaves, and to keep the area around the tree clean and free of debris. Applying a pesticide or fungicide according to the manufacturer's instructions can also help prevent diseases and pests from affecting the tree.
By following these disease and pest management practices, it is possible to ensure healthy and fruitful Canarium Pimela Konig trees.
