Origin and Common Names
Celastrus tetragonus Thunb., also known as the Square-stemmed Bittersweet or Dog's Tooth, is a plant species of the family Celastraceae. It is native to Asia, particularly in China, Japan, and Korea, and can also be found in some parts of Africa.
Appearance
The Square-stemmed Bittersweet is an evergreen woody vine that can grow up to 10 meters in length. Its leaves are glossy, ovate, and usually measure between 5-10 cm in length. The plant's bark is characterized by its square-shaped stem and its reddish-brown color. It blooms small greenish-white flowers that develop into round fleshy fruit, which turns from green to yellow or red when ripe.
Uses
Traditionally, the Celastrus tetragonus Thunb. plant has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as an herbal medicine to treat various ailments, including rheumatism, constipation, and fever. The bark of the plant is also known to have anti-tumor and anti-viral properties. The fruit of the plant is used in Chinese cuisine, where it is pickled, candied, or used to make wine. In addition, the plant is also cultivated as a decorative ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Light Requirements
Celastrus tetragonus Thunb. is a plant that requires a lot of sunlight to grow properly. It is recommended to keep the plant in a location where it can receive at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. The best location for the plant is a spot that gets morning sunlight and partial shade in the afternoon.
Temperature Requirements
Celastrus tetragonus Thunb. thrives in warm temperatures ranging between 18-35°C (64-95°F). Temperatures within this range allow the plant to grow and develop properly. Any temperature below 10°C (50°F) can cause the plant to suffer, and temperatures above 40°C (104°F) can damage the plant if they are sustained for too long.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires soil that has good drainage abilities and is rich in organic matter. It requires a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH level, ideally between 6 and 7.5. The ideal soil for Celastrus tetragonus Thunb. should be well-drained but still able to retain some moisture. It also prefers a soil that is high in nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus, which can be provided via regular fertilization.
Cultivation
Celastrus tetragonus Thunb. is a tropical vine that requires warm temperatures, humidity, and well-drained soil to thrive. Start by selecting a site with partial shade and a slightly acidic soil pH of 6.0-6.5. Clear weeds, rocks, and debris from the planting area and dig holes at least 2 feet apart.
Plant the seedlings at a depth of 1 inch and cover with soil. Water the vine immediately and repeat daily for the first 2 weeks to allow the roots to establish. Mulching the base of the plant helps to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Watering Needs
Regular watering is critical to the healthy growth of Celastrus tetragonus Thunb. The vine requires moderate moisture, and the soil should be moist but not soggy. Water the plant twice a week during the growing season, and reduce to once a week during the dormant period. Avoid overhead watering, as this can cause fungal diseases and leaf damage.
Fertilization
Celastrus tetragonus Thunb. benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season, which helps to promote vigorous foliage growth and maximum flowering. Apply a balanced fertilizer every 2 weeks, following the manufacturer's instructions for the right amount to use. Alternatively, use organic fertilizers like compost or manure to provide the nutrients the vine requires.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep Celastrus tetragonus Thunb. free from disease and pest infestations and to promote healthy growth. Prune the vine in early spring before the growing season begins to remove any damaged or diseased stems. Cut back lateral branches to promote bushy growth and train the vine onto a trellis or arbor. Repeat pruning in late summer to clean up any pests or yellowed leaves.
Propagation of Celastrus Tetragonus Thunb.
Celastrus tetragonus Thunb., also known as the "square-stemmed bittersweet," is a woody climber that grows up to 7 meters long. Propagation of this plant is done through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Seed Propagation
The most common propagation method for Celastrus tetragonus Thunb. is through seeds. The seeds should be collected when the fruit turns red, and seed extraction should be done immediately after harvesting. The extracted seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix, covering the seeds with only a thin layer of soil. The pot should be kept in a warm, bright place, and the soil should be kept moist.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another successful method for Celastrus tetragonus Thunb. The stem cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood growth, which is neither too soft nor too woody. The cuttings should be around 10 cm long and should have at least one node. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and placed in a well-draining soil mix. The soil should be kept moist, and the cutting should be kept in a bright, warm place. After a few weeks, new growth will appear, and this can be transplanted to a bigger container.
Layering Propagation
Layering propagation is an excellent propagation method for climbers like Celastrus tetragonus Thunb. This involves bending one of the lower branches of the plant to the ground, making sure that it is still attached to the main plant. The section of the stem that is in contact with the soil should be scratched and covered with soil, leaving the tip exposed. After a few weeks, roots should appear from the scratched section of the stem. Once established, this new plant can be cut and transplanted to a new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Celastrus tetragonus Thunb.
Celastrus tetragonus Thunb., commonly known as Bintaro, is a shrub or small tree that is native to Southeast Asia. Like all plants, Bintaro is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and health. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Bintaro and suggestions for managing them.
Diseases
Leaf Spot: Bintaro is prone to leaf spot disease, which is caused by various fungal pathogens. Symptoms of the disease include small, brown spots on the leaves that can either turn yellow or fall off. Management options for leaf spot disease include pruning infected leaves, ensuring proper drainage, and applying fungicides.
Anthracnose: Another fungal disease that can infect Bintaro is anthracnose. The disease is characterized by dark, sunken lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruits of the plant. The management options for anthracnose include pruning infected plant parts, improving air circulation, and applying fungicides.
Root Rot: Bintaro is also susceptible to root rot, which is caused by various soil-borne pathogens. Symptoms of the disease include yellowing and wilting of the leaves, stunted growth, and root decay. Management options for root rot include improving soil drainage, reducing watering frequency, and applying fungicides.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the sap of Bintaro leaves. The pests can cause leaves to curl, distort, and yellow, reducing the plant's growth and health. Management options for aphids include removing them by hand, using insecticidal soap or oil, and introducing predators like ladybugs.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of Bintaro. The pests feed on the sap of the plant and produce a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes the growth of black sooty mold. Management options for scale insects include scraping them off with a cloth, using insecticidal soap or oil, and introducing natural enemies like parasitic wasps.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cottony pests that infest the leaves, stem, and fruits of Bintaro. The pests weaken the plant by feeding on its sap, causing the leaves to yellow and fall off. Management options for mealybugs include removing them by hand, using insecticidal soap or oil, and introducing natural enemies like lacewings.
By following these management options, plant enthusiasts can reduce the incidence and severity of diseases and pests that affect Celastrus tetragonus Thunb. and improve the plant's overall growth and health.
