Overview
Guapira obtusata, also known as the "Boxwood tree", is a flowering plant species originally from the Caribbean and Central America. The species is part of the family Nyctaginaceae and is known for its ornamental value and medicinal uses.Appearance
This evergreen plant can reach up to 20 feet (6 meters) in height and can grow up to a width of 15 feet (4.5 meters). The tree has a dense and compact crown with a slow growth habit. Its leaves are dark green and glossy, growing 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The plant's small white flowers bloom in the summer and produce small red berries.Common Names
Guapira obtusata is commonly referred to as "Boxwood tree" due to its dense and compact foliage similar to that of the common boxwood tree. It is also known as "Coccoloba" and "Saco-saco" in some parts of the world.Uses
The Boxwood tree is mainly grown for ornamental purposes as it is an excellent plant for hedges, topiaries, and other landscape accents. Its slow growth habit also makes it perfect for small gardens. In traditional medicine, the plant's bark and leaves are used to make tea that is believed to be effective against stomach ulcers, diarrhea, and other digestive disorders. The red berries are also edible and are a good source of vitamin C. In conclusion, Guapira obtusata is an attractive plant that serves both ornamental and medicinal purposes. Its compact appearance is perfect for small gardens, while its medicinal properties make it valuable in traditional medicine.Light requirements
Guapira obtusata typically requires full sunlight to grow well. It is known to tolerate some shade, but prolonged shade can cause the plants to grow spindly with weak stems. Therefore, it is best to plant it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature requirements
Guapira obtusata thrives in warm conditions and can tolerate some cold weather. However, it is not frost-resistant and cannot survive in temperatures below 25°F for extended periods. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 70°F to 85°F.
Soil requirements
Guapira obtusata grows best in well-draining, moist, and fertile soil. Soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5 is optimal for the plant's growth. It can tolerate slightly acidic to alkaline soil. Sandy loam or loamy soil is ideal for the plant's development. It is also essential to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot and ultimately lead to the plant's death.
Cultivation
Guapira obtusata is a tropical tree that prefers warm, humid environments. It can be grown indoors as a houseplant or outdoors in USDA zones 10 and 11. It prefers full to partial sun and well-draining soil.
Watering Needs
When growing Guapira obtusata, it's important to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant whenever the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch. During the hot summer months, the tree may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Feed Guapira obtusata once every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant. Too much fertilizer can burn the roots and damage the plant.
Pruning
Prune Guapira obtusata in early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or dying branches, and trim back the tips of the remaining branches to promote bushy growth. You can also shape the tree to your liking, but be careful not to remove too much growth at once as this can stress the plant.
Propagation of Guapira Obtusata
Guapira obtusata (Jacq.) Little is a plant species that belongs to the Nyctaginaceae family, also known as the boxleaf guapira. Propagating this species is relatively easy, and it can be done using different methods such as seed propagation, stem cuttings, grafting, and air layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is a simple method, but it would take a longer time to obtain a mature plant. Seeds should be sown in nursery beds or seed containers that are filled with well-drained soil. The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, and it is important to keep the soil moist during the germination process. Germination could take somewhere between 15-25 days. Once the seedlings are big enough, they should be transplanted into bigger pots or placed in the ground.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is another method that can be used to propagate Guapira obtusata. Cuttings should be taken from the current year's growth. The length of the cutting should be between 4-6 inches and should contain at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only two or three leaves at the top. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder and planted in a well-drained potting mixture. The pot should be covered with a plastic bag or polythene sheet to help keep the moisture level high. The cuttings should be watered regularly, and within a month, roots should develop. Once the roots are developed, the cuttings could be transplanted to the desired location.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting is another propagation method that is commonly used for Guapira obtusata. However, this method is not commonly used worldwide. In grafting, a seedling or a rooted cutting is used as a rootstock, while a scion from a mature, desired plant is grafted onto the rootstock. The scion should be cut in such a way that it has a sloping cut, while the rootstock should have a vertical cut. The two parts should be joined using grafting tape or clips, and the graft union should be wrapped with parafilm to prevent dehydration. The grafted plant should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly until the union is well established.
Propagation by Air layering
Air layering is another useful method that could be used to propagate Guapira obtusata. In this method, a branch of a mature plant is twisted or wounded, and a rooting hormone is applied to the wound. Then, a ball of moist sphagnum moss is wrapped around the wound and covered with a plastic or polythene sheet. The moss should remain moist until roots develop. Once roots are observed, the rooted branch could be cut from the parent plant and planted in a separate pot or planted outside.
Disease Management for Guapira Obtusata (Jacq.) Little
Guapira obtusata is a hardy plant that is resistant to most diseases. However, it can be susceptible to some fungi and viruses, causing stunted growth, leaf spots, and wilted leaves.
Preventive measures are essential for keeping the plant healthy. Proper planting spacing, irrigation, and fertilization can help prevent fungal growth and viral infections. Remove any affected leaves or parts of the plant immediately to prevent the spread of the disease.
In cases of severe infections, a fungicide or virus control should be used. Apply these treatments as advised by a professional or according to manufacturer instructions.
Pest Management for Guapira Obtusata (Jacq.) Little
Guapira obtusata is generally resistant to pest attacks, but it is not entirely immune. Some common pests that can affect this plant include spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids.
Regularly inspect the plant for signs of pest infestation, such as wilted leaves and discoloration. If you spot evidence of pests, isolate the plant to prevent the spread of infestation.
Natural remedies such as neem oil, insecticidal soap, and garlic spray can be used for pest control. Spray the plant thoroughly with the selected remedy, ensuring that it reaches all parts of the plant.
In cases of severe pest infestation, apply chemical pesticides to control the spread. It is important to follow the correct dosage and safety precautions stated in the manufacturer's instructions while applying pesticides.
