Origin and Common Names
Combretum suluense Engl. & Diels, also known as the Philippine Almond, is a species of flowering plant native to the Philippines, specifically in the islands of Sulu and Mindanao. It is commonly known as "labangon" or "almon-tree" locally.
Appearance
The Philippine Almond is a tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall and has a dense, rounded crown. Its leaves are oblong or elliptical in shape, measure 8 to 17 cm long and 3 to 7 cm wide, and have a leathery texture. The leaves are dark green in color and are arranged alternately along the stems. The tree's bark is brownish-gray and has a rough texture with shallow furrows.
Combretum suluense produces small, creamy-white flowers that grow in dense clusters at the tip of the branches. The flowers have a distinct smell and bloom all year round. The tree's fruit is a small, round, and flattened brown capsule containing one to four seeds.
Uses
The Philippine Almond has various uses. Its leaves and bark are used in traditional medicine to treat fever, diarrhea, and wounds. The plant's wood is used for construction and furniture-making due to its durability and resistance to decay. The tree's bark and roots are also used for dyeing fabrics. Additionally, the tree is used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and foliage, mainly in parks and gardens.
Light Requirements
Combretum suluense Engl. & Diels thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers bright light but will tolerate some shade. It is best to avoid direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day as it may scorch the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
Combretum suluense Engl. & Diels grows best in warm to hot climates. It prefers temperatures ranging from 22°C to 35°C (71.6°F to 95°F). This plant is not frost tolerant and will die if exposed to temperatures below 10°C (50°F).
Soil Requirements
Combretum suluense Engl. & Diels grows in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged or poorly drained soils.
Cultivation
Combretum suluense Engl. & Diels should be grown in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade, and it requires a warm and humid climate to thrive. The plant is propagated through seeds or cuttings, and it can be planted in the spring.
Watering Needs
Combretum suluense Engl. & Diels requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, to prevent root rot. The plant should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.
Fertilization
Combretum suluense Engl. & Diels responds well to regular fertilization, especially during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, should be applied every month or two. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, can also be used to improve soil fertility.
Pruning
Pruning is important for maintaining the shape and health of Combretum suluense Engl. & Diels. The plant should be pruned in the late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Dead or damaged branches should be pruned back to healthy wood, and crossing or rubbing branches should be removed to prevent damage. The plant can also be lightly pruned after flowering to encourage bushier growth and more blooms.
Propagation of Combretum suluense Engl. & Diels
Combretum suluense Engl. & Diels is a shrub or small tree that is commonly found in the tropical regions of Africa. It is a beautiful ornamental plant that is propagated using various methods. The following are the different propagation methods for Combretum suluense:
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagation of Combretum suluense is through seeds. The seeds of the plant are collected from mature fruits, and they should be sown as soon as possible. Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat. After soaking, sow the seeds in a well-draining seedling mix in a nursery bed or individual pots. Keep the soil evenly moist, and the seeds should start to germinate within 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings propagation
Combretum suluense can also be propagated by using stem cuttings. Take cuttings of about 10-15 cm from the mother plant, making sure that they have at least two or three nodes. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut ends in rooting hormone. Place the cuttings in a well-draining rooting medium or soil mix. Cover the cuttings with a clear plastic bag or place them in a propagation box to create a humid environment. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The cuttings should start to root within 3-4 weeks.
Air-layering propagation
Another propagation method for Combretum suluense is air-layering. This method involves creating a small wound on a branch of the mother plant, which encourages the growth of new roots. Make a shallow wound on a branch by removing a strip of bark about 1.5 cm wide. Dust the wound with rooting hormone, then wrap a moist sphagnum moss around the wound, making sure to cover it with a plastic bag. Keep the moss moist, and roots should start to develop in 4-6 weeks. Once the roots have formed, cut off the branch below the new roots and plant it in a pot or directly in the ground.
Whichever method you choose, Combretum suluense will reward you with stunning foliage and beautiful flowers that will add color and interest to your garden.
Disease and Pest Management for Combretum suluense Engl. & Diels
Combretum suluense is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Combretaceae. Like all plants, it is susceptible to a range of diseases and pests that can cause significant damage if left untreated. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that might affect C. suluense, as well as suggestions for managing them:
Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spots: C. suluense is vulnerable to several fungal leaf spot diseases, including Cercospora combreti and Phaeoramularia combreti. These diseases typically manifest as small, circular, dark-colored spots on the leaves, which can eventually cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely.
Management: To control fungal leaf spots, prune affected leaves and branches and dispose of them properly. Apply a fungicide to the remaining plant parts according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Rust: Several species of rust fungi can attack C. suluense, causing yellow or orange pustules to form on the leaves, stems, and flowers. Rust-infected plants may experience stunted growth and reduced vigor.
Management: Remove infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. A fungicidal treatment may be necessary to control severe rust infestations.
Pests
Scales: Scale insects are common pests that can infest C. suluense. These insects attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant and suck out its sap, causing yellowing, stunted growth, and leaf drop.
Management: Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control scale infestations. These products suffocate the insects and prevent further feeding. Pruning away severely affected plant parts may also be necessary.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny arachnids that can be difficult to detect due to their small size. They suck out plant sap, causing stippling and discoloration of the leaves.
Management: Use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control spider mites. Make sure to target the undersides of the leaves where the mites are most likely to be found.
By taking proactive measures to manage diseases and pests, you can help ensure the health and vitality of your C. suluense plant. With proper care, it can thrive and provide many years of beauty and enjoyment.
