Origin of Funtumia elastica
Funtumia elastica, also known as rubber tree, is a species of plant that belongs to the family Apocynaceae. This plant is native to Central and West Africa, which includes countries like Cameroon, Gabon, and Congo.
Common Names of Funtumia elastica
The rubber tree has several common names, which include West African rubber tree, Lagos silk rubber, and Congo rubber. The plant gets its name from the latex or rubber it produces, which is an essential industrial raw material worldwide.
Uses of Funtumia elastica
Funtumia elastica is popularly known for its latex or rubber production. The plant's latex can be used in many applications, including making gloves, shoes, condoms, balloons, and other rubber-based products. Additionally, the plant's bark can be used to make ropes, while its leaves can be made into a herbal medicine for treating wounds, malaria, and stomach aches.
General Appearance of Funtumia elastica
The rubber tree is a medium to a large-sized evergreen tree that can grow up to 45 meters tall. The plant has a straight, single trunk that is relatively smooth, with a diameter of about 120 cm. The rubber tree has dark green, large, and glossy leaves that can grow up to 25 cm long. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oval-shaped, and the plant produces fragrant flowers that vary from white to pale pink. The fruit of the Funtumia elastica is a woody capsule that contains numerous small seeds.
Light requirements
The Funtumia elastica plant has moderate light requirements. It can tolerate partial shade, but it thrives in bright, indirect light. Direct exposure to intense sunlight can cause damage to the leaves and stunted growth. As a tropical plant native to West Africa, it is adapted to receiving a high amount of light throughout the day.
Temperature requirements
The Funtumia elastica plant is sensitive to cold temperatures and cannot tolerate frost. It prefers warm and humid environments with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). If the temperature drops below 15 degrees Celsius (59 degrees Fahrenheit), the leaves can become discolored and fall off.
Soil requirements
The Funtumia elastica plant grows well in loose, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Soil acidity should be between pH 5.5 to 7.5. The plant requires regular watering, but the soil should never be waterlogged as this can lead to root rot. Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and suppress weed growth around the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Funtumia elastica, locally known as the African rubber tree, is a highly valued economic plant that grows in tropical regions. It requires warm and moist environments to grow successfully. It thrives well in well-draining, fertile soils with pH 6.0-7.5.
The plant is propagated through seeds or stem cuttings. When planting seeds, soak them in water overnight to soften the hard outer coat. Sow them in nutrient-rich soil and keep them moist until germination.
When using stem cuttings, select healthy and disease-free branches and avoid cutting at the lower parts of the plant. Allow the stem cutting to dry, then dip it in a rooting hormone before planting it at a depth of 5-10 cm in a potting mixture of sand and peat. Keep the cutting moist until it develops roots.
Watering Needs
Funtumia elastica requires adequate watering to thrive. Proper irrigation is critical to reduce premature flower fall and leaf drop. Water the plant frequently to ensure that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. During dry seasons, increase watering frequency to keep the soil moist. Always avoid over-watering or under-watering the plant to prevent root rot or water stress.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential in promoting healthy growth and high latex production in the plant. Use a balanced fertilizer with a nutrient ratio of 10N:10P:10K. Apply the fertilizer twice a year, preferably just before the rainy season to maximize nutrient uptake. Alternatively, use organic manure, such as compost or animal waste, to enrich the soil. Apply the manure around the stem of the plant while avoiding contact with the foliage.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to keep the plant healthy and productive. Trim the branches that are less than 2.5cm in diameter and remove any diseased or damaged parts. Regular pruning promotes abundant lateral growth and high latex production. After harvesting latex, make a shallow cut at the top of the previous tapping site to promote new latex flow. Avoid tapping the same spot more than twice a year to prevent girdling or weakening of the stem.
Propagation of Funtumia elastica
The plant Funtumia elastica can be propagated through several methods such as:
Seed propagation
The seeds of Funtumia elastica should be collected when they are mature. To determine maturity, the fruit capsule that contains the seeds should turn brown and start to split open. The seeds should be sown immediately upon collection. They should be cleaned and soaked in water overnight before sowing. Funtumia elastica seeds need a well-drained soil mixture, ample water, and high humidity to germinate. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Germination may take up to 3 months.
Cuttings propagation
The cutting propagation method is suitable for Funtumia elastica because it is a fast-growing species. The cuttings should be taken from young shoots of the plant that are disease-free and healthy. The cutting should have at least two nodes, and the lower node should be stripped of its leaves. Rooting the cuttings in a root hormone will help speed up the rooting process. The cuttings should be treated with a fungicide and planted in a well-draining soil medium. They should be kept in a warm place with high humidity and misted regularly.
Air-layering propagation
Air-layering is another method of propagation for Funtumia elastica, which allows the plant to create roots while still attached to the parent plant. The process involves making a cut on a stem and packing the area with a rooting hormone and moist sphagnum moss. The area is covered with a plastic wrap and secured in place. After several weeks, the roots should appear, and the plant can be severed from the parent.
Disease Management for Funtumia elastica
Funtumia elastica, commonly known as the African rubber tree, is susceptible to various diseases that can cause damage to leaves, stems, and fruits. Here are some common plant diseases that may affect Funtumia elastica:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause spotting on leaves and fruits, which may lead to defoliation and yield reduction. To manage this disease, remove infected plant material and apply fungicides containing copper or maneb.
- Black spot: This fungal disease can cause dark spots on leaves, leading to defoliation and stunted growth. To manage black spot, remove infected plant material and apply fungicides containing copper or maneb.
- Phytophthora root rot: This soil-borne disease can cause wilting, yellowing, and stunting of plants. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering and provide proper drainage in soil. Fungicides can also be applied for control.
Pest Management for Funtumia elastica
Funtumia elastica is also prone to insect attacks that can damage plant tissues and reduce yield. Here are some common pest problems that may affect Funtumia elastica:
- Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and bronzing of leaves. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Mealybugs: These small, white insects can cause leaf yellowing and stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: These insects can cause yellowing and wilting of leaves, as well as excrete honeydew that attracts ants. To manage scale insects, remove infected plant material and apply insecticides containing neonicotinoids or pyrethroids.
