Overview
Friesodielsia gracilipes (Benth.) Steenis var. longipedicellata Baker f., also known as the long-pedicelled Friesodielsia, is a tree belonging to the family Annonaceae. It is native to Indonesia and can be found in several provinces such as Java, Bali, and Kalimantan.
Appearance
The long-pedicelled Friesodielsia grows up to 25 meters in height and has a trunk diameter of up to 70 centimeters. The bark is gray and smooth. The leaves are alternate, simple, and oblong to obovate in shape, measuring 14 to 29 centimeters long and 5 to 10 centimeters wide. The upper leaf surface is shiny and green, while the lower surface is paler and sometimes hairy. The flowers are arranged in clusters and have six petals that are yellowish-green in color and measure up to 1 centimeter long. The fruit is a spherical, greenish-brown berry that is 1.5 to 2 centimeters in diameter.
Uses
The long-pedicelled Friesodielsia is known for its medicinal properties. In traditional Indonesian medicine, the bark, roots, and leaves are used to treat various ailments such as fever, diarrhea, and rheumatism. The tree is also used for timber, and its wood is suitable for furniture making, construction, and carving.
Common Names
The long-pedicelled Friesodielsia is known by several other common names, including Akar Merah, Sepetir Gajah, and Meranti Doh.
Light Requirements
Friesodielsia gracilipes (Benth.) Steenis var. longipedicellata Baker f. requires dappled shade to partial sunlight. Avoid exposing this plant to direct sunlight for extended periods, as it may scorch the leaves. If growing indoors, place the plant near a north-facing window or provide fluorescent lighting.
Temperature Requirements
Friesodielsia gracilipes (Benth.) Steenis var. longipedicellata Baker f. is native to tropical regions and thrives in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 12°C (54°F) and above 30°C (86°F), as it may lead to stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves.
Soil Requirements
Friesodielsia gracilipes (Benth.) Steenis var. longipedicellata Baker f. prefers well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic soil. A mixture of peat, perlite and sand in equal parts is ideal for growing this plant. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, and watering should be reduced during winters.
Other Growth Requirements
Friesodielsia gracilipes (Benth.) Steenis var. longipedicellata Baker f. requires high humidity levels to thrive. It is important to keep the soil moist and to mist the leaves frequently. Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season can enhance the growth and flowering of this plant. It is also important to prune the plant regularly to maintain its shape and promote branching.
Cultivation
Friesodielsia gracilipes var. longipedicellata is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and high humidity for proper growth. It thrives in a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Plant in a location with bright, filtered light to mimic its natural habitat under tree canopies in the rainforest.
This plant may be propagated through cuttings taken from the stem and rooting hormone applied to the wound. Maintain high humidity levels around the cutting by covering the pot with plastic or enclosing in a propagation box. It will typically root within 3-4 weeks.
Watering
Water your Friesodielsia gracilipes var. longipedicellata frequently to keep the soil moist, but not saturated. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. During the growing season, from spring to autumn, water more frequently. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows down.
The easiest way to determine when your plant needs watering is by sticking a finger into the soil. If the top inch feels dry, it is time to water. Alternatively, you can use a moisture meter or weight of the pot to tell if watering is required.
Fertilization
Provide nutrients to your Friesodielsia gracilipes var. longipedicellata through regular fertilization. Use a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer, diluted to half the recommended strength during the growing season. Feed once monthly, every two to three months in winter when growth slows down.
Avoid fertilizing a newly-propagated cutting for at least six months, as it is still establishing its root system. Additionally, avoid fertilizing a plant that is experiencing drought stress or other issues.
Pruning
Friesodielsia gracilipes var. longipedicellata is best left to grow without pruning, as it has a naturally appealing spread growth habit. However, if you wish to promote a compact form or remove any dead or damaged growth, do so in early spring before new growth emerges.
Use clean, sharp secateurs to make clean cuts and avoid leaving unsightly jagged edges that invite pests and infections.
Propagation of Friesodielsia gracilipes (Benth.) Steenis var. longipedicellata Baker f.
Friesodielsia gracilipes (Benth.) Steenis var. longipedicellata Baker f. can be propagated by several methods. The most common methods are through seed propagation, stem cuttings, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most economical way to propagate Friesodielsia gracilipes (Benth.) Steenis var. longipedicellata Baker f. is by seed. The seeds of this plant can be collected from mature fruits. However, it is important to note that the seeds of this plant have a very short viability period and should be sown immediately after collection. The seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix, and kept in a warm and humid environment until they germinate. Germination usually occurs within 2-4 weeks.
Stem Cuttings Propagation
Another common propagation method for Friesodielsia gracilipes (Benth.) Steenis var. longipedicellata Baker f. is through stem cuttings. This method involves taking a cutting from a healthy and mature plant and rooting it in a well-draining potting mix. The stem should be cut just below a leaf node and treated with rooting hormone before planting. The cutting should be kept in a warm and humid environment until it develops roots. Once the roots have developed, the cutting can be transplanted into a larger pot or outdoors.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another propagation method that can be used for Friesodielsia gracilipes (Benth.) Steenis var. longipedicellata Baker f. This method involves joining a cutting or scion from a desirable plant onto a rootstock. The rootstock serves as the root system for the plant, while the scion provides the desired traits, such as better flowering or growth. This method is more complicated than the other methods and requires specialized skills and equipment.
Disease Management
Friesodielsia gracilipes (Benth.) Steenis var. longipedicellata Baker f. is primarily susceptible to fungal and bacterial diseases. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
- Fungal leaf spots: These are characterized by circular or irregularly shaped spots on the leaves. Pruning of infected areas and the use of fungicidal sprays can help manage this issue.
- Crown rot: This disease affects the stem at the base, causing wilting and eventual death of the plant. Crown rot can be managed through proper watering and not over-fertilizing the plant.
- Bacterial leaf blight: This disease is characterized by yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Pruning of infected areas and the use of copper-based fungicides can help manage this issue.
Pest Management
There are several common pests that can affect Friesodielsia gracilipes (Benth.) Steenis var. longipedicellata Baker f. Here are some ways to manage them:
- Spider mites: These pests can be found on the underside of leaves, leaving a web-like substance. Insecticidal soap or oil sprays can help manage these pests.
- Aphids: These pests can be found on the leaves and stems, feeding on the sap of the plant. The use of insecticidal soap, neem oil, or introducing natural predators like ladybugs can help manage these pests.
- Scale insects: These pests appear as small, immobile bumps on the leaves and stems. The use of rubbing alcohol or horticultural oil can help manage these pests.
