Origin
Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. is a plant species that originated in tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, including the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and northern South America.
Common Names
Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. has several common names, including Jamaican citharexylum, fiddlewood, and palo de la cruz. In some countries, it is also known as "guao" or "palo santo," which means "holy wood" in Spanish.
Uses
The bark, leaves, and roots of Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. have been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, including relief for fever, malaria, respiratory infections, and digestive problems. In some cultures, the plant is also believed to have spiritual and protective properties, and the wood is used in rituals and as incense.
The wood of the Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. has been used to make musical instruments, particularly guitars and violins, as it is known for its tonal qualities.
General Appearance
Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall. The tree has a straight, cylindrical trunk and dense foliage, with oval-shaped leaves that grow up to 15 centimeters long. The tree's flowers are small and white and can appear throughout the year, while the fruit is a small drupe that turns from green to black when ripe.
The bark of the Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. is smooth and grayish-brown, and the wood is dense and hard, which makes it durable and resistant to decay.
Light Conditions
Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. typically grows well under full sunlight exposure, but partial shade is also tolerated. The plant can grow 2-3 meters tall with a spread of up to 2 meters, and for best growth, plant it in a location that receives at least 4-6 hours of full sun per day.
Temperature Conditions
The plant prefers a warm, tropical climate with temperatures ranging from 25 to 35°C. Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. can tolerate occasional temperature fluctuations, but it may not survive under harsh freezing conditions for a prolonged period.
Soil Conditions
Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. thrives best in well-draining soils that are rich in essential nutrients, organic matter, and moist but not waterlogged. The plant is adaptable and can grow in a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils with a pH range of 5.0-7.5. Additionally, it is highly tolerant of salty soils, making it an ideal choice for coastal landscapes.
Cultivation
Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. is native to Central and South America and thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings and prefers well-draining, sandy or loamy soils with a pH range of 5.0 to 8.0. The plant should be grown in full sun to partial shade and requires a warm and humid environment.
Watering Needs
Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. requires consistent moisture and should be watered regularly, especially during hot and dry weather conditions. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other diseases. The plant may be watered in the mornings or evenings and the frequency should be adjusted based on the climate and weather conditions.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization can enhance the growth and appearance of Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. A balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every four to six weeks during the growing season. The fertilizer should be evenly spread around the plant's root zone and watered in thoroughly to prevent burning or damage to the roots.
Pruning
Pruning Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. can help promote bushier growth and maintain its size and shape. The plant can be pruned at any time of the year and any dead, diseased, or damaged branches should be removed immediately. The branches should be pruned back to the desired size and shape using sharp, clean pruners. Additionally, any crossing or rubbing branches should be removed to prevent damage and improve airflow.
Propagation of Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq.
Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. can be propagated via seeds, stem cuttings, and air layering. Each propagation method has its advantages and disadvantages and may vary in success rates, depending on the conditions and expertise in handling the plant.
Propagation via seeds
Seeds are a readily available and inexpensive way to propagate Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. However, the seeds may have low viability and tend to have a low germination rate. Additionally, the plant's seeds might require stratification or scarification before planting to break their dormancy and facilitate germination.
Propagation via stem cuttings
Stem cuttings can produce quick, reliable results when propagating Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. The cuttings should be taken from the current season's growth, and the leaves should be removed from the lower half of the stem to prevent excess water loss. Cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in sterile rooting media with high moisture content. Bottom heat and high humidity levels can also help improve the success rates of stem cuttings.
Propagation via air layering
Air layering entails inducing roots to sprout on the stem of the plant while it is still attached to the parent plant. This slow method of propagation requires a specialized technique of peeling away a ring of bark and applying a rooting hormone to the exposed cambium layer. Then, the plant's wound is wrapped in a moist medium such as sphagnum moss and plastic wrap to form a callus. After the callus forms, roots should start to emerge from the moist medium, and the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to a new container after some time.
Disease Management
Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. is susceptible to various diseases, which can have a significant impact on plant growth and health. Some common diseases that can affect this plant species include:
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that can result in white powdery colonies on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause stunted growth and defoliation if left untreated. To manage this disease, one can use fungicides or opt for cultural management practices such as pruning to improve air circulation, reducing humidity, and watering early in the morning.
- Leaf Spots: This is a fungal disease characterized by brownish spots on the leaves. It can result in defoliation and reduced yield if not treated early. One can manage this disease by avoiding overhead irrigation, adequate spacing, and removal of infected leaves.
- Root Rot: This is a condition caused by soil-borne pathogens such as Phytophthora or Pythium. It can lead to wilting, stunted growth, and plant death. To manage this condition, one can avoid over-watering, soil drainage improvement, use of disease-free planting material, and use of fungicide treatments.
Pest Management
Citharexylum quadrangulare Jacq. can also face different kinds of pest attacks during its growth cycle. Some common pests that can affect this plant species include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap of the plant and can cause distorted growth. They secrete honeydew, which attracts ants and may lead to fungal growth. One can manage this pest by using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths, and they can consume the foliage of the plant leading to defoliation. One can manage them by hand-picking, use of Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), or natural predators like birds and rodents.
- Mites: Mites are small arthropods that can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. They are difficult to control as they reproduce quickly and develop resistance to conventional pesticides. One can use natural predators or use miticidal sprays like sulfur or neem oil.
