Overview
Garcinia quadrangula Engl. is a tropical plant native to Southeast Asia and commonly found in the Philippines. It is a member of the Clusiaceae family and is commonly known by its various vernacular names including Prutasan, Meranti Bau, and Luli.
Appearance
The Garcinia quadrangula plant can grow up to 30 meters tall and produces edible fruit that is yellowish green in color and about the size of a small apple. The leaves of the plant are oval-shaped, alternating, and grow to about 10 centimeters in length. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray with a somewhat scaly texture.
Traditional uses
In traditional medicine, different parts of the Garcinia quadrangula plant are used to treat a wide range of ailments. The fruit is believed to be effective in treating ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, and stomach pains. The leaves are used as a remedy for skin diseases and wounds. The bark of the tree is used in the treatment of fever and as an antidote to poison. Additionally, the fruit is often used as a spice, and its juice can be fermented to create a popular alcoholic beverage.
Cultivation
The plant prefers well-drained soils and thrives in areas with abundant sunlight and adequate rainfall. The Garcinia quadrangula plant is often propagated through seeds and cuttings. It is commonly found in tropical gardens and is sometimes cultivated commercially for its edible fruit. The tree is also used in reforestation projects to help regenerate degraded forest areas.
Light Requirements
Garcinia quadrangula Engl. prefers full sun exposure but can also tolerate partial shade. In areas with very high temperatures, it is best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to prevent leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers a warm, tropical climate, with average temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees Celsius. It cannot tolerate temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius and is sensitive to frost.
Soil Requirements
Garcinia quadrangula Engl. grows well in a wide range of soil types, from sandy loam to clay loam. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. The soil should be well-drained, fertile, and rich in organic matter.
Water Requirements
The plant requires regular watering, but the frequency will depend on the specific growing conditions. It needs to be kept well-hydrated during dry spells. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to make sure the soil is well-drained before watering.
Fertilizer Requirements
The plant needs regular feeding during the growing season. A balanced, slow-release fertilizer is best, applied every two to three months. Fertilizer should be applied around the base of the plant and worked into the topsoil.
Cultivation Methods of Garcinia quadrangula Engl.
Garcinia quadrangula Engl., commonly known as Chupons or Brindle Berry, is a slow-growing and low-demanding plant, making it easy to cultivate. It thrives well in tropical and subtropical regions and prefers well-draining soils. For cultivation, select a location that is sunny or partially shaded.
To propagate the plant, use cuttings from mature trees. Plant the cuttings in a pot with a well-draining soil mix, keep them in a warm and humid place until they root, and then transplant them into the desired location. The plant can also be grown from seeds, which should be sown in a pot and kept in a partially shaded and warm place until they germinate.
Watering Needs of Garcinia quadrangula Engl.
Garcinia quadrangula Engl. requires regular watering. Water should be applied once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. During hot and dry seasons, increase watering frequency and apply water directly to the base of the plant.
However, avoid overwatering as this may lead to waterlogging and root rot. Check the soil moisture content regularly, and only water when the soil is dry to a depth of about 1 inch.
Fertilization of Garcinia quadrangula Engl.
Garcinia quadrangula Engl. requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and fruiting. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every three months during the growing season. Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer that will last for up to six months.
Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, taking care not to put it directly on the stem. Water the plant thoroughly after fertilizing.
Pruning of Garcinia quadrangula Engl.
Garcinia quadrangula Engl. requires minimal pruning. However, pruning can help to promote bushier growth and increase fruit production. Prune the plant during the dormant season, removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
Also, prune any branches that are crossing or interfering with other branches. To maintain the desired shape, prune the branches to the desired length. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant at once as this may stress the plant.
Propagation of Garcinia quadrangula Engl.
Garcinia quadrangula Engl. can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation through seeds
The seeds of Garcinia quadrangula Engl. can be collected and sown in well-draining soil. The seeds should be scarified before planting to enhance the germination rate. Scarification can be done by nicking the seed coat or soaking the seeds in hot water for a few minutes before sowing. The seeds should be kept in a warm and moist place until they germinate. Once the seedlings have developed a few leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation through cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings is also an effective method for growing Garcinia quadrangula Engl. Cuttings should be taken from a healthy and disease-free plant during the growing season. The cuttings should be around 4-6 inches in length and should have at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the bottom end in rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it in a warm and humid place. The cutting should develop roots in about 6-8 weeks, after which it can be transplanted to a bigger pot or planted in the ground.
Propagation through air layering
Air layering is a propagation method that can be used for Garcinia quadrangula Engl. Air layering involves creating a wound on the stem of the plant and wrapping it with a moist medium to encourage new roots to develop. Find a healthy branch on the plant and make a 1-inch cut through the bark. Apply some rooting hormone powder on the cut and wrap the area with moist sphagnum moss or vermiculite. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure with tape or a rubber band. Check the moss regularly to ensure that it remains moist. In about 2-3 months, new roots should emerge from the cut area. Cut the air-layered branch from the main plant and transplant it into a well-draining potting mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Garcinia quadrangula Engl.
Garcinia quadrangula Engl., also known as brindon berry, is a tropical evergreen tree that is native to Southeast Asia. While this plant is generally low-maintenance, it can fall victim to certain pests and diseases that can cause damage to its leaves, fruits, and even its branches. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Garcinia quadrangula and ways to manage them:
Diseases:
1. Anthracnose: This is one of the most common fungal diseases that affects Garcinia quadrangula, causing dark lesions or sunken areas on the leaves and fruits. To manage this disease, remove and destroy any infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering, which can splash bacteria from infected plants onto healthy ones. Use fungicides containing copper or mancozeb to prevent anthracnose from spreading.
2. Root Rot: Excessive moisture can lead to root rot, which can make the roots of the tree decay and become brown or black. To avoid this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the tree. You can also treat the soil with fungicides or biological control agents to prevent the growth of fungal pathogens that cause root rot.
Pests:
1. Mealybugs: Mealybugs can infest Garcinia quadrangula and cause the leaves to become yellow and the fruits to drop prematurely. To manage mealybug infestations, prune and dispose of infected plant parts and use insecticidal soap sprays or neem oil to kill the bugs.
2. Fruit Flies: Fruit flies can be a problem for Garcinia quadrangula trees, as they feed on the fruits and can cause them to rot. To manage fruit fly infestations, hang yellow sticky traps around the tree and use insecticide baits to attract and kill the flies.
3. Scale Insects: Scale insects can suck the sap from the leaves and branches of Garcinia quadrangula, causing them to become stunted and distorted. To manage scale insect infestations, prune and dispose of infected plant parts and use insecticidal soaps or neem oil to kill the insects.
By being aware of these common diseases and pests that might affect Garcinia quadrangula and following the tips above, you can help your tree to thrive and produce juicy, delicious fruits.
