Overview
Celtis burmannii Planch. is a plant species that belongs to the family Cannabaceae. It is known for its multiple medicinal properties and is used in various traditional medicines. This plant is native to Southeast Asia and the Pacific and is widely distributed across the region.
Common Names
This plant is known by various common names, including Black Currant Tree, Mamo, Wild Medlar, and Kembang Turi. It is also called the Asian hackberry and the Burmese Celtis.
Appearance
Celtis burmannii Planch. is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. It has a straight trunk and a rounded crown, with many branches that spread out horizontally. The bark is smooth and light brown, with small cracks that become more pronounced as the tree ages. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate to elliptic in shape, with serrated margins. They are dark green in color, with a glossy surface, and measure up to 15 cm in length. The tree produces small, round, fleshy fruits that turn from green to black when ripe. These fruits are edible and have a sweet taste.
Uses
Celtis burmannii Planch. has various medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicines. It is known to have antipyretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. The leaves and bark of the tree are used to prepare herbal remedies for treating various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, dysentery, and rheumatism. The tree also has several other uses, such as providing shade, timber, and fuelwood. The fruits are edible and can be used to make jams and jellies.
Light requirements
Celtis burmannii Planch. is a tropical plant species that thrive in moderate to high levels of light. Ideally, it requires at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight to grow well. However, it can also grow in partially shaded areas but may not thrive as much as it would in well-lit locations.
Temperature requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 10-11. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Temperatures below 15°C (59°F) may lead to stunted growth or even the death of the plant. Therefore, it is essential to grow it in a warm location, away from drafts and cold temperatures.
Soil requirements
C. burmannii Planch. prefers well-draining soil with a pH range between 6 to 7.5. It can grow in both sandy and loamy soils as long as they are well-draining. The soil should be fertile, with enough organic matter to provide essential nutrients to the plant. Additionally, the plant needs consistently moist soil, but not waterlogged. Therefore, it is essential to water the plant regularly, especially during the dry season, to ensure that the roots have enough moisture to sustain the growth of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Celtis burmannii Planch., commonly known as the Java hackberry, is a small shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height. It is native to Southeast Asia and is generally found in tropical forests. To cultivate this plant, you need a warm climate, high humidity, and well-drained soil. Sow the seeds in a pot that has well-draining soil, and keep it in a bright and warm area until germination which may take several weeks. You can transplant it into the ground or a larger container once it has grown a few inches.
Watering Needs
The Java hackberry plant thrives in a humid environment and requires regular watering. Water the plant moderately, making sure the soil is moist but not water-logged. It is best to let the soil dry out slightly between watering to prevent root rot. During dry seasons, you may water frequently to keep up with the plant's moisture needs.
Fertilization
Celtis burmannii Planch. is not too demanding when it comes to fertilization, but you can enrich the soil with compost or a slow-release fertilizer. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, which typically starts in spring and ends in fall. Apply the fertilizer according to the package instructions and use a balanced fertilizer mix for best results.
Pruning
Pruning the Java hackberry plant should only be done to control the shape and size of the plant. The plant is generally self-shaping, and a small amount of pruning is enough to keep it in check. Prune the plant during the fall or winter months when it is dormant. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim back the tips of branches to promote fuller growth. Do not over-prune the plant as it may reduce its overall health and growth.
Propagation of Celtis burmannii Planch.
Celtis burmannii Planch., also known as African nettle tree, is a deciduous tree that is native to Southeast Asia and tropical Australia. It is a hardy tree that can grow in various soil types and weather conditions, making it an ideal plant for propagation.
Propagation methods
Celtis burmannii Planch. can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed propagation
Seeds from mature Celtis burmannii Planch. trees can be collected and planted in pots or directly in the ground during the rainy season. Ensure that the seeds are planted at the appropriate depth, which is usually about three times the size of the seed, and placed in a well-drained soil mix. Keep the soil moist and warm until germination occurs, which usually takes about a month.
Cutting propagation
Cutting propagation is another effective method of propagating Celtis burmannii Planch. trees. Take cuttings from young and healthy trees, making sure that they have at least two nodes and are about 10-15cm long. Remove the leaves from the lower nodes and plant the cuttings in a well-drained soil mix. Keep the soil moist and warm until roots develop, which takes about four to six weeks.
Air layering
Air layering is a common propagation method used for Celtis burmannii Planch. trees. It involves creating a small wound on the stem of a mature tree and wrapping it with a moist rooting medium, such as sphagnum moss or peat. Keep the rooting medium moist until roots start to develop, which usually takes about six to eight weeks. Once roots have formed, the new plant can be separated from the parent tree and planted in a pot or directly in the ground.
Overall, Celtis burmannii Planch. is a hardy tree that can be easily propagated through various methods. Whether using seeds, cuttings, or air layering, the key is to create the right conditions for the plant to thrive and grow.
Disease and Pest Management for Celtis burmannii Planch.
Celtis burmannii Planch. is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it is not completely immune to attacks, and there are certain diseases and pests that can affect it. Here's a look at some common diseases and pests and how they can be managed:
Diseases
1. Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves, twigs, and branches. The disease can be controlled by cleaning up fallen debris and removing infected twigs and branches. Infected leaves should be pruned and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides can also be applied, but they are most effective when applied during early spring when the disease is most active.
2. Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. The disease can be controlled by pruning off the infected areas, watering the plant at the base instead of overhead, and removing any debris from the soil. Fungicides may also be applied to control the disease.
Pests
1. Scales: Scales are small insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant and suck the plant's sap. This can cause the leaves to turn yellow, curl up, and fall off. The best method of control is to remove the scales by hand or with a soft brush. In severe infestations, pesticides may be necessary.
2. Caterpillars: Caterpillars can cause serious damage to Celtis burmannii Planch. by eating the leaves and fruits. Handpicking caterpillars or spraying the plant with Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can be effective in controlling them.
3. Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small insects that have white, waxy coatings. They can cause leaf drop and stunted growth. Control of mealybugs involves removing them from the plant by hand, washing the plant with a strong stream of water, or applying a pesticide.
Regular inspection of the plant and proper care can help in early detection of pests and diseases, and prevent further damage to the plant.
