Overview
Elaeodendron croceum (Thunb.) DC. var. heterophyllum Loes. is a small tree or shrub native to South Africa. It is a member of the Celastraceae family which includes about 1,300 species of trees, shrubs, and lianas.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the "Saffraanboom" in Afrikaans, which translates to "saffron tree" in English. Other common names include "Sour Plum" and "Mala-Mala".
Appearance
The Elaeodendron croceum var. heterophyllum is a small, semi-deciduous tree or shrub that can grow up to 4 meters tall. The bark is dark brown to grey in color and is covered in small warts. The leaves are simple, alternate, and vary in shape from elliptical to ovate. They are dark green in color and have a glossy appearance. The flowers are small, white, and are borne in clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruit is a fleshy, spherical drupe that is bright red when ripe and is consumed by both birds and mammals.
Uses
The Elaeodendron croceum var. heterophyllum has a variety of uses in traditional medicine. Its bark and leaves are used to treat a range of ailments including headaches, colds, flu, and fevers. The fruit is used to make a sour-tasting drink that is rich in vitamin C. In addition to its medicinal properties, the plant is also used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Light Requirements
Elaeodendron croceum var. heterophyllum is a plant typically adapted to grow under full sun exposure. It requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive and maintain healthy growth. Insufficient light can lead to slower growth, weakened stems, and smaller leaves. This plant can also tolerate some shade, but it should not be exposed to complete shade.
Temperature Requirements
The growth and development of Elaeodendron croceum var. heterophyllum are greatly influenced by temperature. It prefers warm and humid tropical or subtropical environments. The ideal temperature range for growth is between 20-35°C (68-95°F). Cold temperatures, especially below 10°C (50°F), can be detrimental to the plant, leading to slowed growth and potential death. Frost is lethal to this plant, so it is essential to avoid exposure to frosty conditions.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Elaeodendron croceum var. heterophyllum is well-draining, loose soil with a pH range between 6.0-7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and have good water retention capacity to ensure regular moisture supply. This plant is adaptable to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, but it should not be planted on heavy or poorly drained soils. Adequate soil preparation is crucial before planting to ensure optimal growth and development.
Cultivation
Elaeodendron croceum (Thunb.) DC. var. heterophyllum Loes. can be grown in warm, humid environments with well-draining soil. It is best planted in a partially shaded spot that receives indirect sunlight. The plant requires enough space to grow and should be spaced at least three feet apart from other plants.
It is ideal to plant Elaeodendron croceum (Thunb.) DC. var. heterophyllum Loes. during the early spring months when the weather is mild. The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall and needs support until it is established.
Watering Needs
The plant should be watered regularly, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Elaeodendron croceum (Thunb.) DC. var. heterophyllum Loes. appreciates high humidity. Therefore, you may need to spray the plant's leaves with water regularly to maintain its ideal environment.
During the winter months, reduce watering but ensure the plant never completely dries out.
Fertilization
Elaeodendron croceum (Thunb.) DC. var. heterophyllum Loes. requires light feeding during summer and spring using a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Alternatively, you can apply a liquid fertilizer once a month at half the recommended strength.
Over-fertilization can affect color development in the plant's leaves.
Pruning
Try to keep pruning to a minimum as the plant generally assumes its natural shape. However, you can prune haphazard growth lightly, remove dead wood and broken branches. Regularly removing these will help to keep the plant healthy. Prune immediately after flowering. Avoid pruning in late summer and autumn as this will encourage the growth of soft, immature wood, which can easily be damaged during winter.
Propagation of Elaeodendron croceum var. heterophyllum Loes.
Elaeodendron croceum var. heterophyllum Loes. can be propagated by seed or vegetatively.
Propagation by Seed
The seeds of Elaeodendron croceum var. heterophyllum Loes. can be collected when they are mature, which is usually in the fall. The seeds should be placed in a mixture of sand and peat moss and kept moist. They typically germinate within 4-6 weeks.
Propagation Vegetatively
Elaeodendron croceum var. heterophyllum Loes. can also be propagated vegetatively using cuttings. Softwood cuttings should be taken in the summer and hardwood cuttings in the fall. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a mixture of sand and peat moss. They should be kept moist and will typically root within 6-8 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Elaeodendron croceum var. heterophyllum
Elaeodendron croceum var. heterophyllum is a shrub that is commonly found in South Africa and is known for its bright yellow flowers. It is a hardy plant but can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Here we discuss some of the most common ones and present ways to manage them.
Pests
Spider Mites: Spider mites are the most common pest affecting E. croceum var. heterophyllum. They cause damage to the leaves and can stunt the growth of the plant. Signs of an infestation include yellow or brown spots on the leaves, webbing, and tiny specks on the undersides of leaves. They can be managed through regular washing and spraying with an organic insecticide such as neem oil or pyrethrum.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are also common on E. croceum var. heterophyllum. They appear as brown, waxy bumps on the undersides of leaves or along the stem of the plant. They feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of leaves. They can be managed by wiping off the insects with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or by spraying with insecticidal soap.
Diseases
Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that affects the bark of the plant, causing sunken lesions. It can weaken the plant and cause branch dieback. Canker can be managed by removing affected branches and cleaning pruning tools with rubbing alcohol to avoid spreading the fungus.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. It can cause leaves to curl and eventually drop. It can be managed by removing affected leaves, improving air circulation, and spraying with a fungicide containing potassium bicarbonate or sulfur.
With proper care and attention, it is possible to manage these pests and diseases and keep E. croceum var. heterophyllum healthy and vibrant.
