Overview of Garcinia chromocarpa Engl.
Garcinia chromocarpa Engl., also known as mabolo, is a fruit-bearing tree belonging to the Clusiaceae family. It is endemic to the Philippines and commonly grows in forests and on mountains at an altitude of 200 to 1,500 meters above sea level. The tree is also cultivated in neighboring countries such as Indonesia and Malaysia.
Appearance of Garcinia chromocarpa Engl.
The mabolo tree can grow up to 20 meters tall with a diameter of 40 centimeters. It has a straight trunk, a pyramidal crown, and a dense foliage of glossy, leathery leaves that are 8-20 centimeters long and 5-8 centimeters wide. The flowers are yellowish-green and bloom from May to July. The fruit of the mabolo tree is round to oblong and measures 10-15 centimeters in diameter.
Uses of Garcinia chromocarpa Engl.
The fruit of the mabolo tree is edible and has a distinct flavor that is described as a combination of caramel, chocolate, and banana. It is commonly eaten fresh or made into jams, preserves, and pastries. The bark and leaves of the tree are also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as infections, fever, and diarrhea. In addition, the wood of the mabolo tree is hard and durable, making it ideal for constructing furniture, flooring, and decorative items.
Common Names and Varieties of Garcinia chromocarpa Engl.
The mabolo tree is commonly known by its scientific name Garcinia chromocarpa Engl., but it is also known by various other names such as velvet apple, butter fruit, and kamagong. There are currently no known varieties or cultivars of Garcinia chromocarpa Engl.
Light Requirements
Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. thrives in bright or indirect sunlight. The plant requires enough light to photosynthesize and grow healthily. A location near a south-facing window or under a grow light will provide enough light for optimal growth. However, direct sunlight may cause damage to the plant.
Temperature Requirements
Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. grows best in warm temperatures. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 65-85°F (18-29°C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) but may experience slow growth. Additionally, avoid exposing the plant to temperature fluctuations as they can cause stress.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5-7.0. A mixture of sand, peat moss, and perlite can create a suitable growing medium for the plant. It is also essential to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. Lastly, adding a slow-release fertilizer to the soil can provide necessary nutrients to the plant.
Cultivation methods
To cultivate Garcinia chromocarpa Engl., it is essential to provide a warm and humid environment. This species thrives best under partial shade, preferably with a temperature range of 21-32°C. Before planting, make sure to adequately prepare the soil by enriching it with organic matter. Propagation of the plant can be done through seeds or cuttings. If using cuttings, ensure that the nodes are buried in the soil, while the leaves are above the soil surface. Young plants should be transplanted into larger containers after about six months.Watering needs
Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. requires regular watering, especially during the initial growth stages. The frequency of watering should be adjusted based on the prevailing weather conditions at the plantation site. However, it is important to note that excess water may lead to root rot. To prevent this, ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for the healthy growth of Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. A balanced fertilizer, high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied to the soil every three months. Organic compost can also be mixed with the soil to provide additional nutrients.Pruning
Pruning of Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. should be done annually to remove diseased, dead, or damaged branches. This pruning should be done after harvesting to prevent stunted growth. However, it is important to avoid over-pruning as this may lead to reduced yields.Propagation of Garcinia chromocarpa Engl.
Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. can be propagated through various methods which include:
Seed propagation:
Seeds of Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. are used for propagation. Fresh seeds are preferred over old seeds. To propagate through seeds, the seeds are sown in well-drained soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. The seeds are sown at a depth of 1 to 2 inches and covered with a thin layer of soil. The seeds are then watered thoroughly to keep the soil moist. Germination of seeds takes about 20 to 30 days.
Cutting propagation:
Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. can also be propagated through cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings are preferred for propagation. The cuttings are taken from healthy plants with a diameter of about 2 to 3 inches. The leaves on the lower part of the stem are removed, and the remaining leaves are shortened. The cutting is then treated with a rooting hormone and planted in well-drained soil. The cutting should be watered regularly to maintain the moisture level. The roots of the cutting will develop in about 40 to 50 days.
Budding propagation:
Budding propagation is another method of propagation for Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. This method is used for propagating better quality plants. Budding is done on rootstock of the same genus. The bud is taken from the selected plant and inserted on the rootstock of the seedling. The bud is then wrapped with a plastic cover to prevent insects from entering and to maintain the moisture level. After 15 to 20 days, the cover is removed, and the bud is allowed to grow.
Propagation of Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. can be done through various methods which include seed propagation, cutting propagation, and budding propagation. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. However, the most preferred method is seed propagation for large-scale plantations while cutting propagation and budding propagation are used for propagation with quality plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Garcinia Chromocarpa Engl.
Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. is a plant that is susceptible to several pests and diseases. Proper disease and pest management practices can help protect the plant's health and ensure optimal growth and yield. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, along with suggestions for managing them:
Leaf Spots
Leaf spots are a common disease that can affect Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. The symptoms include the appearance of small, circular spots on the plant's leaves, which eventually turn brown or black and may cause defoliation. To manage leaf spot disease, it is essential to avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation around the plant. Fungicides may be used for severe infections.
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is another fungal disease that can cause significant damage to Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. The symptoms include dark, sunken lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruit. To manage anthracnose, it is important to prune infected plant parts and dispose of them properly. Fungicides can be used to prevent the spread of the disease.
Fruit Flies
Fruit flies are one of the most common pests that affect Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. The adult flies feed on the plant's fruit, causing it to rot and drop prematurely. To manage fruit flies, it is important to keep the area around the plant clean and free of fallen fruit. Traps and baits can be used to capture and kill adult flies.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are another common pest that can affect Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. They are small, oval-shaped insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves, causing them to yellow and drop off. To manage scale insects, it is important to prune heavily infested plant parts and dispose of them properly. Insecticides can be used to control severe infestations.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are also common pests that feed on the leaves of Garcinia chromocarpa Engl. They can cause significant damage to the plant if left uncontrolled. To manage caterpillar infestations, it is important to remove any visible caterpillars by hand and dispose of them properly. Insecticides can be used for severe infestations.
By following proper disease and pest management practices, it is possible to protect the health and yield of Garcinia chromocarpa Engl.
