Overview
Friesodielsia velutina, also known as the Velvet Friesodielsia, is a species of flowering plant in the family Annonaceae. The plant is native to Myanmar and Thailand and is found in subtropical and tropical forests.
Common Names
The plant goes by various common names which include Isaan name "Mak Muea" (???????), ?????????? ?????? (Ngao Laan Na Khaaw Dok), and ??????????? (Ki Klon Phet).
General Appearance
F. velutina is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. The plant has a smooth grey bark and the crown of the tree is round in shape. The leaves are simple and alternate, with a length of 18-28 cm and width of 5-9 cm. The leaves are dark green on the upper side and lighter on the bottom with velvety pubescence. The flowers are bright white and have 3 petals, giving them a starry appearance. The fruit of the plant is a yellowish, round-shaped fruit with a diameter of 3-9 cm.
Uses
The plant is known for its medicinal properties in Thai traditional medicine. It is believed to have antifungal and antibacterial properties which make it useful to cure various ailments such as skin irritation, fever and diarrhea. The fruit of the plant is edible and is used to make desserts and drinks in some parts of Southeast Asia.
Overall, F. velutina is a fascinating plant with its beautiful starry flowers, Velvety leaves, and medicinal properties.Light Requirements
Friesodielsia velutina typically requires a moderate to high amount of light to grow properly. It is recommended to provide it with bright, indirect sunlight. This can be achieved by placing it near a window that receives partial sunlight throughout the day. However, direct sunlight should be avoided as it can cause leaf burn. In low light conditions, the plant may grow at a much slower rate and its leaves may become smaller and discolored.
Temperature Requirements
Friesodielsia velutina grows best in warm temperatures ranging from 18°C to 27°C (65°F to 80°F). The plant can tolerate some temperature fluctuations, but it should not be exposed to extreme temperature changes. It is important to protect the plant from cold drafts and sudden changes in temperature. During winters, it is advisable to place the plant in a warmer part of the house, away from cold windows and doors.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Friesodielsia velutina needs to be well-draining and rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is ideal. The soil should not be allowed to completely dry out, and it must be moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and may also attract pests. It is important to provide drainage holes in the pot to prevent water accumulation at the bottom.
Cultivation Methods
Friesodielsia velutina is a beautiful plant that requires a warm, humid environment to thrive, making it ideal for indoor cultivation. The plant requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and is corrosive due to the high levels of acidity. The soil should be kept moist, but not overly wet, as the plant's roots may rot from too much water.
Exposing the plant to direct sunlight is not recommended, but it should be placed in a spot with bright, indirect light. The warmer the environment, the faster the plant will grow. Therefore, a temperature range of 20-25°C is ideal for proper plant growth.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is critical to the health of this plant, and it requires watering at regular intervals. The soil should never dry out completely, and with daily misting, the plants can tolerate high humidity. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is crucial to let the soil air out regularly.
The watering frequency depends on the environment, but it is generally recommended to water the plant every two to three days. You have to ensure that the soil is well-drained, to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Feeding your Friesodielsia velutina is necessary to ensure that it thrives and blossoms. Fertilizing during the growing period, preferably with a slow-release fertilizer, provides good results. The appropriate fertilizer is one that contains proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in a ratio of 2:1:1.
Fertilization is vital for proper plant growth. Hence, it should be done every three months, from early spring to late fall.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep the plants healthy and in good shape. Trim the yellow and dead leaves or branches regularly to keep the plant tidy and enhance proper aeration.
Pruning can also encourage new growth and ensure healthy development. You can trim leaves from the top to ensure that the plant grows evenly. Although the plant does not require pruning, it is an excellent practice to keep it in tip-top condition.
Propagation of Friesodielsia velutina
Friesodielsia velutina can be propagated through both seed and vegetative methods.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Friesodielsia velutina can be collected from the fruit when it is fully ripe. The collected seeds should then be cleaned and dried before planting. The seeds can be directly sown in the soil or in trays filled with appropriate seed starting mix. The seedlings should be kept well-watered and in partial shade until they are large enough to be transplanted to their permanent location.
Vegetative Propagation
Friesodielsia velutina can also be propagated through vegetative methods such as stem cuttings and layering. Stem cuttings should be taken from the tips of healthy branches and planted in a rooting hormone and well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept in partial shade and well-watered until roots appear. Once roots appear, the newly rooted plant can be transplanted into its permanent location.
Layering can also be used to propagate Friesodielsia velutina. The stem of a healthy and young branch is bent towards the soil surface and a small section of bark is removed. The stem is then anchored in place with a wire and covered with soil. Over time, new roots will form on the stem where the bark was removed. Once the roots are established, the new plant can be cut from the mother plant and transplanted.
Disease and Pest Management for Friesodielsia velutina
Friesodielsia velutina (Sprague & Hutch.) Steenis is a tropical plant native to Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia, commonly known as the Velvet Friesodia. This plant is susceptible to several diseases and pests that can cause harm. It is essential to understand common diseases and pests associated with this plant to prevent or manage them effectively. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests associated with F. velutina.
Diseases
Leaf spot: This disease is a fungal infection that causes brown or black spots on the leaves, eventually leading to leaf drop. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and avoid watering plants from above. Use a fungicide to prevent further infection.
Anthracnose: This disease is also a fungal infection that causes brown or black spots on leaves, but the spots have a red or yellow border. It can cause the leaves to curl, and the affected parts die eventually. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves, avoid overcrowding plants, and avoid overhead watering. Use a fungicide to prevent further infection.
Root rot: This disease is caused by the fungus Phytophthora and can lead to the death of the plant. It causes the plant to wilt, and the leaves turn yellow or brown. To manage this disease, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. Use a fungicide to prevent further infection.
Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects that attach themselves to the plant and suck sap. They can cause leaves to curl, turn yellow, and drop prematurely. To manage this pest, wipe the plant leaves with a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap.
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck sap and cause curled, sticky leaves. They can transmit viruses that lead to the death of the plant. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to remove them from the plant. Introducing natural predators like ladybugs can also be effective.
Mites: Mites are tiny, spider-like insects that suck sap from the plant and cause yellow or brown spots on leaves. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to remove them from the plant. Introducing natural predators like spiders can also be effective.
Effective disease and pest management requires continuous monitoring of the plant and implementing control measures as needed to prevent their spread. Keeping the plant healthy by providing appropriate growing conditions, including adequate lighting, water, and nutrients, can also help prevent diseases and pests from attacking the plant.
