Delonix elata (L.) Gamble
Delonix elata, also known as Bejamina or Horse Cassia, belongs to the family Fabaceae and is a species of flowering plant native to India and Sri Lanka.
General Appearance
The tree typically grows up to 10 meters in height, with a smooth gray bark. The leaves are bipinnate, with 2-3 pairs of pinnae, with each pinnae usually containing 6-12 pairs of leaflets. The leaflets are small, narrow, and elongated. The flowers are spectacular, with large, bright red or orange petals, and a long, curved stamen that extends beyond the petals. The fruit is a long pod, resembling a flat, twisted bean pod.
Common Uses
Delonix elata is primarily cultivated as an ornamental tree in gardens, parks, and public spaces for its spectacular flowering display. The tree is also used for its bright yellow wood, which is strong and durable, and used in construction and furniture making. Various parts of the plant are also used in traditional medicine, particularly in Ayurveda, and are said to have antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. The tree is also used to provide shade in hot, tropical climates.
Growth conditions for Delonix elata (L.) Gamble
Delonix elata (L.) Gamble, commonly known as the White Gulmohar, is a tropical tree species native to India and Sri Lanka. It is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall. The following are the typical growth conditions required for Delonix elata to thrive:
Light requirements:
Delonix elata requires full sun exposure to grow properly. It is a species that grows in open spaces such as parks, gardens, and roadsides with direct sunlight. The species can grow in partial shade but would affect the development of the tree's canopy and the production of flowers.
Temperature requirements:
Being a tropical species, Delonix elata requires warm temperatures to grow properly. The temperatures for optimum growth range between 24°C to 30°C. The tree species can tolerate high temperatures of up to 45°C during the summer season.
Soil requirements:
Delonix elata can grow in various soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils with a pH range between 6.5 to 7.5. The tree can grow in sandy or loamy soils with good drainage. The plant requires regular watering, particularly during the summer season.
Fertilizer requirements:
The species requires regular fertilization to thrive. The best approach is the application of slow-release fertilizers with high phosphorus and potassium content. The fertilizers should be applied during the active growth stage, which is typically during the spring-summer period.
Pruning requirements:
Delonix elata requires occasional pruning to maintain its shape and prevent the occurrence of dead branches. The best time for pruning is typically during the winter season when the plant is in a dormant state. Limbs less than 5 cm in diameter should be pruned off regularly to maintain the shape of the crown.
Cultivation methods
The Delonix elata plant grows in subtropical and tropical climates. It requires partial to full sun exposure and well-draining soil. If you want to cultivate it in your home garden, ensure that you plant it in a location that receives ample sunlight and warm temperatures.
The plant can be propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. If you're germinating the seeds, soak them in water for a few hours before planting them in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and warm, and the seeds should sprout in about two weeks. For stem cuttings, remove a healthy stem from the parent plant, and place it in a well-draining potting mix. Water the cutting lightly, and roots should develop in a few weeks.
Watering needs
The Delonix elata plant requires consistent watering during the growing season. Ensure that the soil stays slightly moist but never waterlogged. Overwatering the plant can cause root rot, which can be fatal. During the dormant season, reduce watering but never let the soil completely dry out.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms, fertilize your Delonix elata plant with a balanced fertilizer. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, about once every three to four weeks. However, avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season as this can lead to overfertilization.
Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer's instructions, and use a slow-release fertilizer for best results. You can also add compost or organic matter to the soil to enrich the soil with nutrients.
Pruning
To keep your Delonix elata plant looking neat and tidy, prune it regularly. Prune away any damaged or dead branches, and trim back any overgrown branches. To promote a bushy habit, pinch back the growing tips of the plant. Prune the plant during the dormant season or after the blooming season. Avoid pruning the plant during the active growing phase as this can stress the plant.
Propagation of Delonix elata (L.) Gamble
Propagation is the process by which new plants are grown from existing ones. Delonix elata (L.) Gamble is commonly propagated from seeds, cuttings or grafting.
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common way to propagate Delonix elata (L.) Gamble is through seeds. Seeds can be collected from mature pods, which turn brown or black when they are ripe. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing. They should be sown in well-draining soil and placed in bright, indirect light. Delonix elata (L.) Gamble seeds typically germinate in 7-10 days.
Cutting Propagation
Propagation of Delonix elata (L.) Gamble can also be done through stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is in the spring, when the plant is actively growing. Take a 6-8 inch cutting from the tip of a healthy stem, remove the leaves from the bottom few inches and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and keep it moist. The cutting should root and begin to produce new growth within a few weeks.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is a more advanced propagation method used to produce plants with desirable characteristics, such as disease resistance or improved fruiting. To graft Delonix elata (L.) Gamble, a scion or small twig from the desired plant is grafted onto a compatible rootstock. This is typically done in the spring, when the plant is actively growing. The graft union should be wrapped with grafting tape to prevent desiccation and the plant should be kept in a warm, humid environment until the graft has taken.
Disease Management
Delonix elata is generally a hardy plant, but it is still susceptible to diseases. Some common diseases that may affect this plant include:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes spots or blotches on the plant's leaves. To prevent it, avoid getting water on the leaves and use a fungicide if necessary.
- Root rot: This fungal disease attacks the plant's roots, causing them to rot and eventually killing the plant. To prevent it, plant the Delonix elata in well-draining soil and do not overwater.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease creates a white, powdery substance on the plant's leaves and stems. To prevent it, provide good air circulation around the plant and use a fungicide if necessary.
If you notice any signs of disease on your Delonix elata plant, it is essential to act quickly to prevent it from spreading.
Pest Management
Like all plants, Delonix elata can also be affected by pests. Some common pests that may affect this plant include:
- Aphids: These insects suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to yellow and curl. To get rid of them, spray the plant with a hose or insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: These insects feed on the plant's leaves, causing them to have holes in them. To get rid of them, pick them off by hand or use an insecticide.
- Mealybugs: These insects also suck the sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to yellow and curl. To get rid of them, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them.
To prevent pests from affecting your Delonix elata plant, inspect it regularly and take action at the first sign of an infestation.
