Overview
Guarea guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson is a tree species from the Meliaceae family. The plant is indigenous to the Caribbean, Central, and South America. Guarea guara has a wide distribution range, occurring from Belize in the north to Brazil in the south. It is commonly known by various names, including crabwood, bastard cedar, sapitandi, and mamica de cadela.
Appearance
Guarea guara is an evergreen tree that grows up to 25m tall and has a diameter at breast height of up to 60cm. The plant has a straight and cylindrical stem, with the bark being brown, smooth, and thin. The leaves of Guarea guara are pinnate, with five to eight leaflets, and are up to 23 cm long. The flowers of the plant are small, white, and clustered, while the fruits are woody capsules, roughly spherical and up to 3cm in diameter. In addition, the tree has a deep taproot system that allows it to grow in dry and infertile soils.
Uses
Guarea guara has various medicinal properties that have been acknowledged throughout history. The bark, roots, and leaves of the plant contain compounds like quassinoids, limonoids, and triterpenoids that have been used as traditional remedies for various ailments like fever, cancer, malaria, and inflammation. Additionally, extracts obtained from the plant have demonstrated antileishmanial, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. The wood of Guarea guara is used in construction and furniture-making, while the oil extracted from the tree's seeds is utilized for soap and lubricant production.
Furthermore, the plant serves as a source of food for various animals, including primates, bats, and birds. Moreover, the tree's leaves, bark, and roots contain potent insecticidal and pesticidal properties, which have been used in crop protection and pest control.
Light requirements
Guarea guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson is a shade-tolerant plant that grows well in partial to full shade. It is commonly found in the understory of forests in its native range. However, too much shade can affect its growth and reproduction. It is best to provide at least four hours of direct sunlight a day to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Temperature requirements
Guarea guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson is a tropical plant that thrives in warm and humid environments. It can tolerate temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C. However, it cannot withstand frost or temperatures below 10°C. It is important to protect the plant from cold temperatures by providing adequate protection during the winter months.
Soil requirements
Guarea guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soils with moderate fertility. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy loam to clay loam. However, it does not grow well in waterlogged soils. It is important to maintain soil moisture levels to prevent drought stress and promote healthy growth.
Cultivation Methods for Guarea Guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson
Guarea Guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson is a tropical tree that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers partial shade and can tolerate full sunlight only in the morning hours.
When planting, dig a hole in the ground that can accommodate the root system with ease. Add compost or well-aged manure to the soil to enrich it. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with the same soil. Water thoroughly, and keep the soil moist during the first few weeks until the plant establishes itself in the ground.
Watering Needs for Guarea Guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson
Water is crucial for the growth and development of Guarea Guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson, especially during the dry season. The plant requires frequent watering to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Aim to water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months. Always use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Fertilization for Guarea Guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson
Guarea Guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson responds well to frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to provide essential nutrients for healthy growth and development. Avoid using fertilizer during the winter months.
Organic fertilizers, such as well-rotted manure or compost, are ideal for Guarea Guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson. Apply in early spring and again in midsummer for the best results. Avoid overfertilization as it can lead to the accumulation of salt in the soil.
Pruning Guarea Guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson
Guarea Guara (Jacq.) P. Wilson does not require much pruning, but occasional pruning can help maintain the plant's shape and size. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Remove any diseased, damaged, or dead branches to promote healthy growth. Trim back any branches that are crossing or interfering with other branches to improve air circulation and light penetration
When pruning, make clean cuts using a sharp pair of pruning shears or loppers and always cut at an angle to ensure proper healing.
Propagation of Guarea guara
The Guarea guara or Sombra de touro is a tropical rainforest tree commonly found in the Amazon region and some other parts of South America. It is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat several health conditions. The plant's propagation is possible through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the most common method of propagation for the Guarea guara plant. The seeds are available from the mature fruits that develop after the flowering season. Collect the seeds and sow them at the start of the rainy season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged, and the temperature should be between 25°C to 32°C. Germination can occur within 2 to 3 weeks.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation of Guarea guara through cuttings is another method, and it is suitable for those who do not have seeds. Select a matured stem and cut it from the parent plant. The cutting should be at least 15 to 20 cm long, and it should have several nodes. Remove the leaves on the lower part of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and keep it moist. After six weeks, the cutting will have started growing roots, and it can be transplanted to a bigger pot.
Propagation through Air Layering
Air layering is another propagation method that is more advanced than the others. It involves creating roots on a part of the stem while still attached to the parent plant. Select a matured stem, about one year old, and remove the leaves at a section of the stem. Apply rooting hormone to the area with no leaves and cover it with plastic wrap. Make a few small openings on the plastic wrap for air circulation. After four to six weeks, roots will have developed, remove the plastic wrap, and cut the newly rooted stem from the parent plant.
Propagation of Guarea guara is easy and can be done using seeds, cuttings, or air layering. With the right conditions, the plant can grow to its maximum potential and provide a range of medicinal benefits.
Disease Management
Guarea guara is susceptible to various diseases that can affect its growth and productivity. The common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems of the plant, causing patches of dead tissue on the leaves. To manage this disease, ensure proper sanitation and remove infected leaves and stems. You can also use fungicides to control the spread of the disease.
- Leaf spot disease: This is caused by different pathogens that cause spots on the leaves, leading to defoliation. To control this disease, remove infected leaves and apply fungicides.
- Rust disease: This is a fungal disease that causes rusty spots on the leaves and stems of the plant. The infected parts may dry up and fall off. To manage this disease, use fungicides and maintain proper sanitation.
- Root rot: This disease affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and leading to wilting of the leaves. This disease is caused by soil-borne pathogens that thrive in poorly drained soils. To manage this disease, ensure proper soil drainage and apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Guarea guara is also susceptible to pest attack that can lead to significant yield losses. The common pests that attack this plant include:
- Aphids: These insects suck sap from the leaves, leading to stunted growth and the death of leaves. To manage this pest, use insecticides, introduce predators such as lady beetles, and maintain proper sanitation.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests suck sap from the leaves, leading to discoloration and yellowing of the leaves. To manage this pest, use insecticides, improve humidity levels, and maintain proper sanitation.
- Caterpillars: These pests feed on the leaves, leading to defoliation and stunted growth. To manage this pest, use insecticides, introduce predators such as birds and maintain proper sanitation.
- Mealybugs: These insects suck sap from the leaves and produce honeydew, attracting ants and causing the growth of sooty mold. To manage this pest, use insecticides, introduce predators such as lady beetles and lacewings, and maintain proper sanitation.
