Origin
Gordonia pubescens L'Hér. is a tree species that is native to southeastern parts of the United States, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, and South Carolina. It was also introduced to some parts of Asia including Japan, Taiwan, and China.
Common Names
This plant species is known by several common names including loblolly-bay, bay, cotton-bay, red bay, and silk bay. The name loblolly-bay refers to the viscosity of the tree's sap, which is similar to that of loblolly pine sap. The name bay is derived from its resemblance to the bay laurel tree. Cotton-bay and silk bay names refer to the soft, silky hairs present on the bottom of its leaves and at the base of the flower petals.
General Appearance
Gordonia pubescens L'Hér. is a broad-leaved evergreen tree, which can grow up to 20 meters tall and 30-45 cm in diameter. Its bark is dark gray-brown and deeply furrowed. The leaves are simple, alternate, have a shiny upper surface, and are covered with silky hairs on the bottom surface. The flowers are white, single or in clusters at the ends of the branches and have a diameter of about 5-6 cm. The tree produces a round woody capsule fruit that contains small seeds.
Uses
Several parts of the Gordonia pubescens L'Hér. tree have practical and medicinal uses. Its timber is used for building construction, furniture, and flooring. The leaves of the plant contain flavonoids and are used as a traditional remedy for fever, diarrhea, and coughs. The flowers are a source of nectar for honeybees and other pollinators. The tree is also planted as an ornamental in landscaping due to its attractive appearance.
Growth Conditions of Gordonia pubescens L'Hér.
Gordonia pubescens L'Hér. is a shrub that typically grows up to 2-4 meters in height. The plant is native to South America and requires specific growth conditions to thrive. Some of the critical growth conditions required by Gordonia pubescens L'Hér. include:
Light Requirements
Gordonia pubescens L'Hér. requires a moderate amount of light to grow optimally. Too much direct sunlight can cause the plant to dry out and wither, while too little will hinder its growth. The ideal light conditions for Gordonia pubescens L'Hér. are bright diffused light, such as the one found in tropical forests. Placing the plant in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight is recommended.
Temperature Requirements
The temperature requirements for Gordonia pubescens L'Hér. depend on its growing season. During the growing season, the plant thrives in temperatures between 15°C-28°C, and it can withstand temperatures as low as -10°C. During the dormant season, temperatures should be between 5°C-10°C, mimicking the plant's natural habitat. Anything above these ranges/limits can cause harm to the plant and affect its overall growth.
Soil Requirements
Gordonia pubescens L'Hér. grows well in a well-draining but moist, rich, humusy soil. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.0-6.0. The plant prefers a mixture of sand, peat moss, and perlite. The soil should also be able to retain moisture and nutrients necessary for the plant's growth. Fertilization should be done regularly, ensuring that the nutrient levels in the soil are optimal for the plant's growth.
Cultivation
Gordonia pubescens L'Hér., also known as the Franklin tree, is a small flowering tree native to the southeastern United States. It is relatively easy to grow and requires little maintenance.
The tree prefers well-drained soil and partial shade or full sun. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types but does best in acidic soil. Planting should be done in the spring or fall.
Watering needs
Gordonia pubescens L'Hér. requires regular watering, especially during the first few years after planting. The soil should be kept moist but not saturated, as the plant is sensitive to water-logging. During the summer months, it may be necessary to water the tree once or twice a week, depending on the weather.
Fertilization
The Franklin tree is not a heavy feeder, but it will benefit from occasional fertilization. A balanced fertilizer should be applied once a year in the spring or fall. Over-fertilization should be avoided, as it can cause excessive leaf growth at the expense of flower production.
Pruning
Gordonia pubescens L'Hér. does not require regular pruning, but it can be beneficial for shaping and maintaining the tree's health. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Dead, damaged, or diseased branches should be removed, as well as any crossing branches that could cause rubbing or damage. The tree should be pruned lightly, as excessive pruning can reduce flower production.
Propagation of Gordonia pubescens L'Hér.
Gordonia pubescens L'Hér., commonly known as hairy gordonia or loblolly bay, is a small tree or large shrub native to the southeastern United States. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful white flowers and shiny, evergreen foliage. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Gordonia pubescens produces seeds in the fall. To propagate the plant by seeds, collect fresh seeds and sow them in moist, well-drained soil in a nursery bed. The seeds will germinate in 1-2 months and will require protection from direct sunlight and frost. Once the seedlings have reached a height of 6 inches, they can be transplanted to their permanent location in the garden.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings are also an effective way of propagating Gordonia pubescens. Take softwood cuttings in late spring or semi-hardwood cuttings in late summer. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and have at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone before planting it in well-drained soil. Keep the soil moist and the cutting in a shaded area. The cuttings will begin to root in 2-3 weeks, and after 3-4 months, they will be ready for transplanting.
Propagation by Layering
Layering is another propagation method suitable for Gordonia pubescens. It is a process of rooting branches that are still attached to the mother plant. Select a low-growing branch and bend it towards the ground. Make a small wound in the branch and apply rooting hormone. Bury the wounded part of the branch in the soil and stake it in place. Roots will grow from the wounded part, and after a year, the new plant will be rooted. Cut the rooted stem from the mother plant and transplant it to its permanent location.
Disease Management for Gordonia Pubescens L'Hér.
Gordonia pubescens L'Hér. is generally a healthy and hardy plant. However, it may fall prey to certain diseases under certain conditions. Here are some common diseases and ways to manage them:
Phytophthora Root Rot
This disease is more common in wet soil conditions and can affect the entire plant and its root system. To manage this disease, it is essential to avoid waterlogged soil; planting in well-drained soils can prevent the onset of such diseases. It is also useful to practice proper plant maintenance by removing any dead or decayed debris around the plant.
Canker
The fungus, Diplodia seriata, can cause canker disease leading to sunken brown areas on stems and branches, which eventually may cause the plant to die. To manage this disease, it is essential to prune and dispose of any dying garlands, branches, or stems. Using fungicides that contain copper to treat the affected area can help to control the spread of the fungus.
Leaf Spots
Leaf spot is a fungal disease caused by Cercospora and other fungi. It creates small purplish-black spots on leaves. To manage this disease, prune and remove any infected foliage. Use fungicides that contain copper or effective fungicides that contain copper to control the spread of the fungus. Besides, collecting and removing any debris from around the plant can reduce the severity and spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Gordonia Pubescens L'Hér.
Gordonia pubescens L'Hér. is typically pest-resistant due to its toxicity to most common pests. However, here are some pests that may rarely affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Japanese Beetles
Adult beetles feed on the foliage of the Gordonia plant, and their larvae feed on the roots. To control this pest, manually remove and dispose of adult beetles. Try not to introduce any manure to the soil, as it can attract beetles. Applying insecticides to the foliage can help to control this pest.
Scale Insects
Scales are tiny, sucking insects that typically settle in clusters along leaves and branches. They are difficult to detect early and can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. To manage this pest, it is vital to pick and dispose of branches with visible infestations. Application of neem oil or horticultural oil on the affected area can help to control this pest.
