Overview
Ficus nota (Blanco) Merrill is a plant species that belongs to the Moraceae family. This plant species is commonly known as “Bantigue”. It is a medium-sized tree that grows up to 20 meters in height and is native to the Philippines.
General Appearance
The leaves of Ficus nota (Blanco) Merrill are simple, alternate, and oblong, measuring up to 15 cm long and 7 cm wide. The leaves are glossy green and emit a strong odor when crushed. The tree’s bark is grayish-brown, while the fruit is a small, red fig with a diameter of about 1 cm.
Uses
Ficus nota (Blanco) Merrill has various uses in traditional medicine. The leaves, bark, and roots have been used to treat various ailments such as inflammation, coughs, and fever. The fruit is edible and is commonly eaten raw or dried. The tree’s bark can be used to make cordage and the wood is used for fuel, making charcoal, and carving. Bantigue trees are also used for reforestation and landscaping because of their aesthetic value.
Origin
Ficus nota (Blanco) Merrill is native to the Philippines and can be found growing in the islands of Luzon, Mindoro, Palawan, and Mindanao. The plant’s natural habitat is in tropical forests and lowlands. It is often found growing near bodies of water like streams and rivers.
Light Requirements
Ficus nota thrives in bright, indirect light and can adapt to lower light conditions. Direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant and cause leaf burn. Therefore, it is best to keep the plant at a distance from windows or use sheer curtains to filter the sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
Ficus nota prefers warm temperatures between 60°F and 80°F (15°C to 27°C). It cannot tolerate sudden temperature drops or drafts, so it is essential to keep the plant away from doors, windows, and air conditioning units. The plant can also thrive in humidity levels between 50% to 70%, making it ideal for indoor growing.
Soil Requirements
Ficus nota prefers well-draining soil that can hold moisture but not become waterlogged. A mixture of peat moss and perlite or sand can provide the right balance of moisture retention and drainage. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. It is vital to avoid using heavy soils or ones that have a high clay content, as they can suffocate the roots and prevent proper drainage.
Cultivation Methods
Ficus nota, also known as the Mindanao Rubber tree, is a tropical plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. If grown indoors, it requires bright, indirect light, while if grown outdoors, it should be placed in a partially shaded area to protect it from direct sunlight. The plant prefers temperatures between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and thrives in a humid environment with good air circulation.
Ficus nota can grow in various soil types, but it prefers well-draining, fertile soil. When planting, ensure the soil is moist and the drainage hole is not clogged. The plant should be watered immediately after planting, and the soil should be kept moist until the roots establish themselves.
Watering Needs
Ficus nota requires regular watering to thrive, and the soil should be kept evenly moist throughout the growing season. The plant should be watered thoroughly, ensuring that the water reaches the root zone, and any excess water should be drained off to prevent waterlogging.
The frequency of watering depends on factors such as the temperature, humidity, and soil type. However, it is advisable to water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry. During the winter season, reduce the frequency of watering to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
As a tropical plant, Ficus nota requires regular feeding to maintain its lush green foliage. The plant should be fertilized every two to three weeks during the growing season, using a balanced liquid fertilizer with an equal amount of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium (N-P-K) ratio.
During the winter season, when the plant is dormant, fertilization should be reduced or stopped altogether. Over-fertilization can cause root burn and damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning and shaping Ficus nota helps maintain its desired size and shape while promoting healthy growth. The plant can be pruned all year round, but the best time to trim is during the spring season when the new growth appears.
When pruning, use sharp and sterile pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased leaves, stems, or branches. If the plant has grown too tall, it can be pruned back to encourage bushy growth.
Regularly removing the lower leaves and branches allows the plant to channel its energy to new growth, promoting denser foliage. However, avoid over-pruning as it can lead to stunted growth and damage the plant.
Propagation of Ficus nota
Ficus nota (Blanco) Merrill is a plant that can be propagated via seed, stem cuttings, and root cuttings.
Propagation via seed
Ficus nota seeds can be collected from ripe fruits. The seeds must be washed and then soaked in hot water for about 24 hours to soften the seed coat. The seeds are then planted in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring that they remain moist throughout the germination process. This plant prefers a warm and humid environment for germination to occur.
Propagation via stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are another method of propagating Ficus nota. Cut a section of the stem with at least two leaf nodes and dip it in rooting hormone to increase the rate of rooting. The cutting should be placed in moist, well-draining soil and kept in a warm and humid environment. It takes about 2-3 months for the roots to develop.
Propagation via root cuttings
Root cuttings can also be used to propagate Ficus nota. Cut a section of the root with at least one growth bud and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. The cutting should be kept in a warm and humid environment until roots have developed. It takes approximately 3-4 months for the roots to develop.
Disease and Pest Management for Ficus nota (Blanco) Merrill
Ficus nota (Blanco) Merrill, also known as Bula or Buragko in the Philippines, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Moraceae family. It is a popular ornamental plant that is known for its attractive foliage and unique growth habit. However, like any other plant species, Ficus nota is also prone to diseases and pests, which can affect its health and vitality. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Ficus nota and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot Disease: Leaf spot disease is a common fungal infection that affects many plant species, including Ficus nota. It is characterized by the appearance of small, circular or irregular-shaped spots on the leaves. The spots can be yellow, brown, or black in color, and they can merge together, causing the leaves to wilt and die.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that affects Ficus nota. It is characterized by the appearance of a white or grayish powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. The disease can spread rapidly in areas with high humidity and can weaken the plant, making it more vulnerable to other diseases and pests.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and fruits of many plant species, including Ficus nota. It is characterized by the appearance of small, circular or irregular-shaped spots on the leaves and stems, which can enlarge and merge together, causing the plant to defoliate.
Pest Management
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants, including Ficus nota. They can be found on the undersides of leaves, around the base of the plant, and in the crevices of stems. Mealybugs can weaken the plant, causing it to grow slowly and become more susceptible to diseases.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, spider-like creatures that feed on plant sap, causing the leaves to yellow and wilt. They are common pests of Ficus nota, and they can reproduce rapidly in warm, dry conditions. Spider mites can be removed by washing the plant with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soap.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that feed on the sap of plants. They can be found on the leaves, stems, and branches of Ficus nota and can weaken the plant over time. Scale insects can be removed by using a soft brush to scrub them off or by using insecticidal soap or oil.
In conclusion, Ficus nota (Blanco) Merrill is an attractive ornamental plant that can add beauty and charm to any garden or indoor space. However, it is vulnerable to various diseases and pests, which can affect its appearance and health. Proper management and care can help prevent and control these issues, ensuring the plant remains healthy and vibrant for years to come.
