Overview
Citropsis tanakae is a plant species belonging to the citrus family, Rutaceae. It is a relatively new species, first described by Walter T. Swingle and M. Kellerm. in 1918. The plant is native to China and widely cultivated in several other regions, including the United States.
Common Names
Common names for Citropsis tanakae include Tanaka's citropsis, red-tufted citropsis, and Chinese cherry orange.
Appearance
The Citropsis tanakae plant typically grows to be a small tree or shrub, reaching heights of approximately 5 meters. It produces branches that are round in shape and straight or slightly curved. The plant has dark green, glossy leaves that are small and oval-shaped, with a length of approximately 5 centimeters.
Citropsis tanakae produces small white flowers in the spring, which are followed by small, round to slightly oblong fruits that measure 2–3 cm in diameter. These fruits are usually green when unripe and turn reddish-orange when mature. The plant's fruit is inedible and not commonly used for consumption.
Uses
Citropsis tanakae is not usually cultivated for its fruit, but rather for ornamental purposes. Its attractive appearance, with its dark green foliage and brightly colored fruits, makes it a popular choice for landscaping.
The plant is also known to have medicinal properties. It has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for helping treat digestive disorders, hypertension, and other ailments.
Growth Conditions for Citropsis Tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm
Citropsis Tanakae Swingle & M. Kellerm. is a rare plant native to the high-altitude regions in the Philippines. The plant requires specific growth conditions to thrive, including:
Light
The plant requires partial to full sun exposure for optimal growth. It is best to place it in an area where it can receive at least 4 - 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Too much direct sunlight may cause the plant's leaves to scorch, so placing it under a shade cloth or other protective covering may help.
Temperature
This plant prefers moderate temperatures, with a range of 60 - 75°F (16 - 24°C) being optimal. During the cooler months, temperatures between 50 - 55°F (10 - 13°C) may help promote blooming. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can cause stress to the plant and affect its growth rate.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is a good option. The soil's pH should be slightly acidic, between 5.0 - 6.5. The plant is sensitive to salt buildup, so it is essential to flush the soil thoroughly each time you water the plant.
By ensuring proper growth conditions, your Citropsis Tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm. plant can thrive and produce healthy foliage and beautiful blooms.
Cultivation Methods for Citropsis Tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm.
Citropsis Tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm. is a rare and exotic plant native to Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand. Because of its unique and rare nature, only a handful of cultivation methods have been tried and tested. The plant requires acidic soil that is well-drained and loose.
You can propagate your Citropsis Tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm. through seeds, stem cuttings, or grafting. When planting the seeds, ensure moist soil and good drainage. Seeds should be planted at a depth of 1 inch, and the soil should be kept moist at all times until germination.
Watering Needs for Citropsis Tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm.
Citropsis Tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm. requires moderate watering. You should water your plant once a week during the growing season and decrease watering during the dormant season. Watering frequency can vary depending on the humidity, temperature, and soil type.
When watering, ensure that the soil is moist. Do not let the soil dry out completely, as this may lead to root damage. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is crucial to maintain a balance and ensure that the soil is well-drained.
Fertilization for Citropsis Tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm.
Citropsis Tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm. is a slow grower and does not require a lot of fertilization. Applying fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) using a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) is recommended. Avoid applying fertilizer during the dormant season.
Ensure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions when fertilizing your plant, and do not over-fertilize, as this can cause damage to the roots.
Pruning Citropsis Tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm.
Citropsis Tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm. does not require frequent pruning. However, if necessary, you can prune it to remove any dead or diseased branches or to control its size.
The best time to prune your Citropsis Tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm. is during the dormant season (winter). When pruning, ensure that you use sterile pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Cut the branches at a 45-degree angle just above a node. This will encourage healthy growth and prevent any damage to the main stem. After pruning, dispose of the cuttings appropriately.
Propagation Methods for Citropsis Tanakae Plant
Citropsis Tanakae plant can be propagated through several methods, some of which are discussed below:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Citropsis Tanakae plants. The plant produces small, round, black seeds that can be collected once they are mature and fully ripe. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until germination. Germination can take up to a few weeks, and the young plants should be transplanted into individual containers once they are large enough to handle.
Cuttings Propagation
Cuttings are a quick method of propagating Citropsis Tanakae plants. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and should be at least 6-8 inches long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mixture. The cuttings should be kept moist and warm until they develop roots, which can take up to several months. Once the roots have developed, the young plants can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Air-Layering Propagation
Air-layering propagation is a method of propagating Citropsis Tanakae plants that involves rooting a portion of the stem while it is still on the plant. A small incision is made in the stem, and a rooting hormone is applied to encourage root growth. A moist medium, such as sphagnum moss, is then wrapped around the incision, and the stem is covered with plastic to maintain moisture. Roots should form within a few weeks, and the new plant can be separated from the mother plant and transplanted into its permanent location.
By utilizing any of the above propagation methods, one can successfully grow Citropsis Tanakae plants for commercial or personal purposes. However, it is essential to note that the plants require proper care to ensure healthy growth and development.
Disease and Pest Management for Citropsis tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm.
Citropsis tanakae Swingle & M.Kellerm. is a relatively pest and disease-resistant plant. However, it may be susceptible to a few common diseases and pests.
Common Diseases:
One of the most common diseases that can affect Citropsis tanakae is Phytophthora root rot. This disease is caused by the pathogenic fungus Phytophthora citrophthora. The symptoms of this disease can include wilting, yellowing of leaves, and death of the plant. To manage this disease, plant Citropsis tanakae in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Additionally, fungicides such as mefenoxam or metalaxyl can be applied as a soil drench.
The other common disease that can affect Citropsis tanakae is citrus scab. It is caused by the fungus Elsinoë fawcettii. The symptoms of citrus scab include scab-like lesions on leaves and fruits. To manage this disease, remove infected plant material and apply copper fungicides such as copper sulfate or copper hydroxide to prevent the spread of the disease.
Common Pests:
One of the most common pests that can infect Citropsis tanakae is the citrus leafminer. The larvae of the citrus leafminer tunnel into the leaves of the plant, causing twisting and blistering of the leaves. To manage this pest, remove infected leaves and apply insecticides such as spinosad or imidacloprid to control the infestation.
Another pest that can infect Citropsis tanakae is the citrus red mite. The symptoms of this infestation can include yellowing of leaves and small webs on the underside of leaves. To manage this infestation, apply miticides such as abamectin or fenpyroximate to control the pest.
It is important to note that prevention is key in managing pests and diseases. Regularly inspecting plants for signs of infestation and disease can help in early detection and management.
