Origin
Entada gigas (L.) Fawcett & Rendle, also known as the "sea heart" or "monkey ladder," originated from the Caribbean, Central, and South America. The plant is known for its large seeds that have a distinctive heart shape.
Common Names
The Entada gigas has different common names like sea heart, monkey ladder, sapucaia grande, bucare, caro caro, and jicaro de toro. The name "sea heart" originated from the belief that the seeds that float in the ocean symbolize a heart that has drifted away to sea and washed ashore.
Uses
The Entada gigas plant has various uses across different cultures. The large seeds have cultural significance and have been used as amulets, talismans, and charms. The seeds are also used for crafting jewelry, carving figurines, and in many religious ceremonies. The sap of the tree also has medicinal values and is used for various treatments like snakebites, dysentery, and venomous stings.
General Appearance
The Entada gigas is a large and fast-growing tree that can reach up to 80 feet in height or more. It has smooth grayish bark, large pinnate leaves, and a gorgeous white or pinkish fragrant flower. The plant produces large, woody pods that can grow up to 6 feet long and contain up to 50 seeds each. The seeds are heart-shaped, flattened, and can grow up to 5-8 inches wide, making them one of the most extensive seeds in the world.
Light Requirements
Entada gigas requires a lot of direct sunlight and bright light throughout the day in order to grow optimally. The plant should be placed in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. If the plant does not receive enough light, it may grow slowly or not at all.
Temperature Requirements
Entada gigas prefers a warm and humid environment, typical of tropical regions. The ideal temperature for the plant is between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius (77-86 degrees Fahrenheit). If the temperature drops below this range, the plant may suffer and growth may be stunted. Additionally, sudden changes in temperature or exposure to extreme temperatures should be avoided, as they can harm the plant.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Entada gigas should be well-drained and have good aeration. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH level between 5.5 and 6.5. It grows best in sandy or loamy soil that is rich in nutrients, but is also not prone to waterlogging. Regular fertilization can help improve soil quality and promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods
The Entada gigas plant is a tropical flowering vine that can grow up to 100 feet long. It requires a warm and humid climate to thrive. The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. If starting from seeds, it is recommended to soak the seeds in water overnight before planting. The plant prefers well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun exposure. It can be grown outdoors if the climate is suitable or indoors in a large container.
Watering Needs
The Entada gigas plant prefers evenly moist soil, but it should never be watered to the point of standing water. During the growing season, it is recommended to water the plant once a week but adjust according to climate and pot size. It is important to allow the soil to dry partially between watering but not completely, as the plant can be sensitive to drought conditions.
Fertilization
The Entada gigas plant benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer, high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, is recommended, applying every two weeks. It should never be fertilized during the winter months, as the plant enters a dormant stage.
Pruning
The Entada gigas plant requires minimal pruning, but it can be trained to grow on a trellis or support system. Dead or damaged branches or leaves should be removed promptly. Pinching or trimming of the plant's growing tips will encourage branching and a bushier appearance.
Propagation of Entada gigas
Propagation of Entada gigas can be done by different methods including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
The seeds of Entada gigas should be scarified to improve their germination rate. Scarification can be done either mechanically, by scratching the seeds with sandpaper, or chemically, by soaking them in dilute sulfuric acid for a few minutes, then thoroughly washing them with water. After scarification, the seeds can be sown in well-draining soil, 2-3 cm deep, and kept in a warm, humid place until germination, which can take several weeks. The seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots once they are large enough to handle.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of Entada gigas can be done through stem cuttings or layering. Stem cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be 10-15 cm long and have 3-4 nodes. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being inserted into well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept in a warm, humid place until they have formed roots and new growth.
Layering involves burying a section of a stem, usually a low-growing one, in soil while leaving the tip above the ground. The buried section will produce roots and new growth, which can then be separated from the parent plant once they are well-established.
Disease and Pest Management for Entada gigas (L.) Fawcett & Rendle
Entada gigas, commonly known as Monkey ladder or Sea bean, is a large woody vine native to the tropical regions of Brazil, Africa, and the Caribbean. Like any other plant, it is also susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests that can significantly impact its growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Entada gigas and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Anthracnose: It is a fungal disease that can affect leaves, stems, and fruits of Entada gigas. The disease is characterized by dark-colored lesions with concentric rings that can cause premature defoliation and yield loss.
To manage anthracnose, it is important to maintain proper sanitation by removing infected plant debris and fallen leaves regularly. Fungicides containing copper can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
2. Leaf Spot: It is a common fungal disease that causes circular or irregular-shaped brown or black spots on the leaves of Entada gigas. The disease can cause defoliation and weaken the plant.
To manage leaf spot, it is essential to remove infected leaves and debris to reduce the spread of spores. Fungicides containing copper can also be used to control the disease.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: These small white insects suck sap from the leaves and stems of Entada gigas, causing stunted growth, leaf yellowing, and curling.
To manage mealybugs, it is essential to maintain good sanitation by removing plant debris regularly. A systemic insecticide can also be used to control the pests.
2. Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves and can weaken the entire plant.
To manage scale insects, it is important to maintain good sanitation and remove infested plant material. Natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to control the population of scale insects.
Regular monitoring and timely management of diseases and pests can ensure healthy growth and yield of Entada gigas.
