Description of Ehretia macrophylla Baker
Ehretia macrophylla Baker, commonly known as the Large-leaved Universal Tree, is a species of evergreen tree in the family Boraginaceae. The plant is native to Southeast Asia, specifically to the countries of Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand.
General Appearance
The Large-leaved Universal Tree can grow to a height of 30 meters and has a trunk diameter of up to 60 centimeters. The tree has a straight stem with a broad crown and has a range of trunk colors, from light to dark brown, and with many small elongated lenticels. The leaves of the tree are large and elongated, with a length of 15-30 cm and a width of 5-12 cm. The leaves are shiny, tough in texture, and are green on the top with a light green color on the bottom.
Uses of Ehretia macrophylla Baker
The Large-leaved Universal Tree is an important tree species in Southeast Asia due to its numerous uses. The leaves, bark, and roots of the tree contain compounds with medicinal properties, and therefore this plant has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, such as for the treatment of coughs, colds, and inflammation. The tree is also known for its high-quality wood, which is used for furniture, paneling, and veneers. Moreover, the tree is used in landscaping and urban beautification because of its graceful form.
The Large-leaved Universal Tree is a valuable resource for Southeast Asia and is known for its contribution to the ecosystem and to the economy.
Light Requirements
Ehretia macrophylla Baker requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It thrives under bright, indirect sunlight and prefers to be shielded from intense midday sun.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures between 18°C to 28°C (65°F to 82°F). It can tolerate mildly cold temperatures, but frosty conditions damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
Ehretia macrophylla Baker prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, between 5.5 to 7.5. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, provided they are well-draining.
Cultivation Methods for Ehretia macrophylla Baker
Ehretia macrophylla is a tropical plant that prefers rich, well-draining soil to grow in. The plant typically grows in warm, humid climates, and it requires temperatures of at least 15°C to flourish. It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings, and it requires adequate sunlight exposure to grow properly. In colder climates, the plant can be grown in a greenhouse or indoors.
Watering Needs for Ehretia macrophylla Baker
The watering needs of Ehretia macrophylla vary depending on the season. During the growing season, the plant requires moderate watering to keep the soil consistently moist. However, during the winter months, the plant should be watered sparingly to avoid waterlogging the soil. It is essential to water the plant at the base, as wet leaves and foliage can make the plant susceptible to fungal infections.
Fertilization for Ehretia macrophylla Baker
Ehretia macrophylla requires fertilization during the growing season to encourage proper growth and flowering. Fertilizer high in nitrogen and phosphorus should be applied every two weeks to maintain the plant's health and vigor. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions in fertilizing the plant, as excessive fertilizer can burn the roots and damage the plant.
Pruning for Ehretia macrophylla Baker
Pruning is essential for managing the growth of Ehretia macrophylla and promoting flowering. The best time to prune the plant is just after the flowering season in late winter or early spring. The plant should be pruned evenly to maintain its shape, and any damaged or diseased branches should be removed to prevent further damage to the plant. Additionally, pruning the plant encourages new growth and promotes the development of lateral branches.
Propagation of Ehretia macrophylla Baker
Ehretia macrophylla Baker is a tree species that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. The plant is native to China, India, and Southeast Asia. Propagation of Ehretia macrophylla can be done through the following methods:
Seeds
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for Ehretia macrophylla. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits that are ripe enough. The collected seeds need to be soaked in water for 24 hours and then planted in a mixture of sand and soil. Germination will occur within a few weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted in individual pots once they reach a height of 8 to 12 cm.
Cuttings
Cuttings are another propagation method of Ehretia macrophylla. Hardwood cuttings are taken from the mature trees in the winter season, and they are treated with rooting hormones. The cuttings should be planted in a mixture of peat moss and sand, and kept under shade with high humidity. Rooting will occur within a few months, and the rooted cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots.
Air-layering
Air-layering is a propagation method that involves making a cut on the stem of the plant and covering it with moist moss or soil. The stem is then wrapped with plastic to keep it moist, and the roots will develop in a few months. After the roots have developed, the stem can be cut off from the parent plant and transplanted in individual pots.
Grafting
Grafting is a propagation method that involves the joining of two plants with different genetic materials. The scion of the Ehretia macrophylla is grafted onto a rootstock of a closely related species. The graft union is sealed with grafting wax, and the grafted plant is kept under shade with high humidity until it establishes.
Disease and Pest Management for Ehretia macrophylla Baker
Ehretia macrophylla Baker is a species of flowering evergreen tree, which is native to China, Japan, and Korea. Like all plants, Ehretia macrophylla Baker is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases. However, with proper care and management, many of these issues can be prevented or mitigated.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Ehretia macrophylla Baker is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white or gray mold on leaves and stems. To prevent powdery mildew, it is important to avoid overwatering and overcrowding plants. If powdery mildew appears, affected foliage should be pruned and destroyed. Additionally, appropriate fungicides can be used as a prophylactic measure or in case of infection for its control.
Ehretia macrophylla Baker is also susceptible to root rot, which is caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the roots are well-drained and not sitting in water. If root rot appears, affected areas should be pruned and treated with appropriate fungicides.
Common Pests
Several pests commonly infest Ehretia macrophylla Baker, including scale insects, whiteflies, and spider mites. These pests feed on the sap of the plant, which can cause yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and dieback. To prevent infestations, it is important to maintain clean growing conditions and quarantine new plants. If pests are present, physical and organic methods like manual removal of insects, residues and applying insecticidal soap sprays, neem oil, and botanical insecticides (pyrethrins included) can be used as a natural approach. Chemical insecticides, if necessary, should be used as a last resort and only with care adherence to recommended rates and procedures and the minimal disruption on the beneficial fauna of the plant.
In conclusion, preventing and managing diseases and pests is an essential part of maintaining a healthy and beautiful Ehretia macrophylla Baker plant. Regularly monitoring conditions, avoiding overwatering, providing proper drainage and sanitation, and early detection and control through natural or chemical means can help to prevent and mitigate pests and diseases issues that may arise.
