Origin
The Dialium orientale Baker f. plant is native to Southeast Asia, specifically in Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. It is commonly found in lowland forests and canopies, as well as in secondary forests up to an elevation of 1,000 meters above sea level.
Common Names
The Dialium orientale Baker f. plant goes by several common names depending on the country where it is found. In Indonesia, it is called katok or ki tampui. In Malaysia, it is known as medang or keledang. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, it is called balayong or bitaog.
Uses
The Dialium orientale Baker f. plant has a variety of uses, particularly in traditional medicine and as a source of food. Its leaves and bark are known to contain compounds with anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, making it useful for treating various ailments such as skin infections and fever. Its fruit is also edible and is often used to make jam or pickled in vinegar. The wood of the Dialium orientale Baker f. plant is also valued for its durability and is often used in construction and furniture-making.
General Appearance
The Dialium orientale Baker f. plant is a medium-sized, deciduous tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height. Its leaves are compound and arranged alternately, with 6-14 pairs of leaflets that are ovate or elliptic in shape. Its flowers are white or yellow-colored and grow in clusters at the end of branches. Its fruit is a round-shaped, woody capsule that contains a single seed and is green when young, turning reddish-brown when mature. The Dialium orientale Baker f. plant has a dense, rounded crown and a straight trunk that is often buttressed at the base.
Light requirements
The Dialium orientale Baker f. prefers to grow in an area with bright, indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the plant's leaves.
Temperature conditions
The ideal temperature range for the Dialium orientale Baker f. ranges from 20 to 26 degrees Celsius. The plant is sensitive to extreme temperature changes, so it should be kept away from drafty areas.
Soil requirements
The Dialium orientale Baker f. thrives in well-draining soils rich in organic matter. A pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal. The plant is sensitive to salt buildup, so it is important to flush the soil periodically with clean water.
Cultivation Methods
Dialium orientale Baker f., commonly known as Velvet Tamarind, is a tropical fruit tree that grows up to 20m tall. It thrives in tropical and subtropical regions and can be grown both in the open field and in containers. When growing it in a container, choose a container that is at least 30cm wide and 30cm deep. It prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight to grow best, but it can also tolerate partial shade.
Propagation of Dialium orientale can be done through seeds or vegetative means such as grafting and budding. It is advisable to propagate the plant using seeds as they produce a straight and healthy taproot that contributes to the growth and life of the plant.
Watering Needs
Dialium orientale requires frequent watering during its growing season, especially when the soil is dry to the touch. When watering, make sure to water the soil to the root depth and check for drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. During the dormant phase, watering should be reduced, and the soil left to almost dry out to prevent root rot.
Fertilization
The Velvet Tamarind tree requires regular fertilization to achieve optimum growth and fruit production. You can use organic or inorganic fertilizers, depending on your preference. Fertilizer applications should be done during the growing season, preferably in spring and summer. It is advisable to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizers to avoid over-application that can lead to chemical burns.
Pruning
Pruning Dialium orientale is essential to maintain its health and shape, promote fruit production, and protect it from pests and diseases. Pruning should be done during the dormant phase to avoid interrupting the growing season. The first pruning should be done after the tree reaches about 3 meters to promote branching. Dead, diseased, or damaged branches should be removed whenever noticed to prevent the spread of diseases to other parts of the tree.
Propagation of Dialium orientale Baker f.
Dialium orientale Baker f., commonly known as the Indian Dialium or Velvet Tamarind, is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia and thrives in warm and humid environments. Propagation methods for this plant include:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Dialium orientale Baker f. is through seed propagation. The seeds are collected during the fruiting season from mature trees and will germinate within 2-4 weeks. To propagate using seeds, follow the steps below:
- Collect the seeds from the tree and wash them in clean water to remove any fruit residue.
- Soak the seeds in water for 24 hours to soften the seed coat and improve germination rates.
- Plant the seeds in a container filled with well-draining soil, burying them about an inch deep into the soil.
- Water the seeds and cover them with plastic or a transparent cover to create a humid environment.
- Place the container in a warm, shaded area, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- After germination, the plants can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Cutting Propagation
Dialium Orientale Baker f. can also be propagated through cutting propagation. The best time to take cuttings is during the rainy season when the tree's growth is at its peak. To propagate using cuttings, follow the steps below:
- Choose healthy branches that are about 1-2 years old and free of disease and pests.
- Cut a 10-15 cm segment of the branch, making sure to include a few leaves and a bud or two.
- Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder to stimulate root growth.
- Plant the cutting in a container filled with a well-draining soil mixture and keep it in a warm and humid location.
- After a few weeks, when roots have formed and new growth appears, the plant can be potted in a more permanent location.
Propagation of Dialium orientale Baker f. is relatively easy and can be done using either seed or cutting propagation. With proper care and maintenance, the propagated plants can reach their full potential within a few years.
Disease Management for Dialium orientale Baker f.
Dialium orientale Baker f. is generally a hardy tree and relatively resistant to many diseases. However, some fungal and bacterial diseases can cause damage to the tree, especially during periods of high humidity and rainfall.
One common disease that affects Dialium orientale Baker f. is leaf spot disease. This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves, which can lead to defoliation and reduced plant vigor. The disease can be managed by removing infected leaves and avoiding overhead irrigation. Applying fungicides can also be effective in reducing the disease.
Another fungal disease that can cause damage to the tree is anthracnose. This disease can lead to the wilting and dying of newly developed leaves and twigs. The use of fungicides, pruning, and avoiding overhead irrigation can help reduce the effects of the disease.
Pest Management for Dialium orientale Baker f.
Dialium orientale Baker f. can also be affected by a variety of pests that can cause damage to the tree. Common pests include scale insects, mealybugs, and borers.
Scale insects and mealybugs feed on the sap of the tree, causing yellowing of leaves and stunting of growth. These pests can be managed by introducing natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, and by applying insecticides when necessary.
Borers can also cause significant damage to the tree by burrowing into the trunk and branches, leading to wilting and dieback of the affected areas. Preventive measures, such as good hygiene and avoiding wounding of the tree, can be taken to reduce the risk of damage. Insecticide application can also be effective in controlling borers.
Overall, the proper management of diseases and pests for Dialium orientale Baker f. involves a combination of preventive measures, good cultural practices, and the use of chemical controls when necessary. Regular monitoring of the plant can also help detect and address any problems before they become severe.
