Origin
Colubrina glandulosa Perkins var. antillana (M.C. Johnston) M.C. Johnston belongs to the plant family Rhamnaceae, which is native to the Caribbean, particularly the islands of Puerto Rico, Hispaniola, and the Bahamas. It prefers to grow in dry coastal forests, on rocky hillsides and cliffs, and in disturbed areas.
Common names
There are several common names associated with Colubrina glandulosa Perkins var. antillana (M.C. Johnston) M.C. Johnston. In Puerto Rico, it is known as Molinillo, Guasimal, or Cabezón; in the Dominican Republic, it is called Canelilla or Canelo; in the Bahamas, it is referred to as Minnie's Root or Water Bush.
Uses
Colubrina glandulosa Perkins var. antillana (M.C. Johnston) M.C. Johnston has several medicinal uses. In Puerto Rico, it is used as an analgesic for headaches and toothaches. In the Dominican Republic, it is used as a purgative and a remedy for jaundice and liver ailments. The bark has also been used to treat inflammation and skin conditions. Additionally, the plant is used as a hedge and for ornamental purposes due to its attractive flowers and fruit.
General appearance
Colubrina glandulosa Perkins var. antillana (M.C. Johnston) M.C. Johnston is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It has a broad, rounded crown and rough, greyish-brown bark. The leaves are ovate to elliptic in shape, glossy green, and measure up to 5 inches long. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom in clusters from January to March. The plant produces small red or brown berries that contain a single seed, which matures from April to June.
Light Requirements
The Colubrina glandulosa Perkins var. antillana thrives well in full sun exposure. It can also handle partial shade, but it might not grow optimally as it would in full sun. Therefore, it's advisable to plant this plant in open areas where it can access maximum sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The plant does well in a warm and humid climate. It's important to note that it's relatively sensitive to frost and may not survive in extremely cold temperatures. The plant can tolerate drought conditions, but it's better to keep it regularly watered during extended dry periods.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil, with a pH ranging between 6.1 and 7.8. It's essential to keep the soil moist, but not soggy, to avoid root rot. Sandy loam soil with organic matter is preferable. The plant also requires good airflow around its growing environment for proper development.
Cultivation methods
Colubrina glandulosa Perkins var. antillana (M.C. Johnston) M.C. Johnston can be grown indoors or outdoors. If grown indoors, ensure it is placed near a window with plenty of sunlight. Outdoors, plant it in well-draining soil in a location with partial shade.
Watering needs
Colubrina glandulosa Perkins var. antillana (M.C. Johnston) M.C. Johnston prefers moist soil. Water the plant once a week or when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as it can damage the plant by causing root rot.
Fertilization
Colubrina glandulosa Perkins var. antillana (M.C. Johnston) M.C. Johnston benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer every two to four weeks during the growing season. Reduce fertilization during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Pruning
Colubrina glandulosa Perkins var. antillana (M.C. Johnston) M.C. Johnston does not require much pruning, but occasional pruning can help control its size and shape. Prune the plant to remove any dead or damaged branches. Additionally, prune back the plant after the blooming period to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Colubrina glandulosa var. antillana
Colubrina glandulosa var. antillana can be propagated through several methods: seeds, stem cuttings, and air layering.
Seeds
The most common method of propagation for Colubrina glandulosa var. antillana is through seeds. The seeds are collected from mature fruits and should be cleaned and dried before being planted. Scarification, or scratching the seed coat, can help to improve germination rates. Seeds can be sown directly into well-draining soil or started indoors in pots.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate Colubrina glandulosa var. antillana. Hardwood cuttings of 6-8 inches in length, taken during the dormant season, should be treated with rooting hormone and placed in a well-draining rooting medium. Keep the medium moist and provide bottom heat to encourage root growth.
Air Layering
Air layering, a more advanced propagation method, involves creating a small wound on a mature stem and wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss and plastic wrap. Roots will form at the wound site, and the new plant can be removed and potted once roots have established.
Disease Management
Colubrina glandulosa Perkins var. antillana is known to be susceptible to several diseases that can affect its growth and yield. These diseases include:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots and defoliation, as well as affect plant growth and yield. To manage anthracnose, one should spray the plant with fungicides such as copper-containing compounds or benzimidazole.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease is characterized by the presence of white powdery spots on the leaves and stem of the plant. It can be managed by removing infected leaves and spraying the plant with fungicides such as sulfur or neem oil.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi and can lead to the wilt of the plant. To manage root rot, one should avoid overwatering the plant and use fungicides such as thiophanate-methyl or mefenoxam.
Pest Management
Colubrina glandulosa Perkins var. antillana is also known to be susceptible to several pests that can cause damage to the plant. These pests include:
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves, as well as webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, one should spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Whiteflies: These pests can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage whiteflies, one should use yellow sticky traps or spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: These pests can cause defoliation and damage to the leaves and stem of the plant. To manage caterpillars, one should handpick them or spray the plant with insecticides such as spinosad or Bacillus thuringiensis.
