Origin
Guilandina crista auct. non (L.) Small, also known as the "Guilandina", "Crush Broom", or "West Indian Locust", is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Fabaceae. This plant is native to tropical regions of the Americas and is found in countries such as Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.
Common Names
Guilandina crista has various common names such as Crush Broom, Bahama Trumpet, San Luis, John Crow Bead, and Lignum Vitae Wild.
Uses
The Guilandina crista plant is used for different purposes. The seeds of this plant are traditionally used for making jewelry, as they are hard and shiny. The seeds are also believed to have medicinal properties and are used as remedies for digestive problems and respiratory infections. Besides, the Guilandina plant serves as an ornamental plant in the garden and can be planted as a windbreak in coastal areas.
General Appearance
The Guilandina crista plant grows up to 15m tall and has feathery leaves. The flowers are yellow, and the fruit is a long pod with a woody exterior and a fibrous interior. The seeds are dark brown with a shiny surface, and they are also large and hard. The plant has a distinct bark with scaly plates, which is how it got the common name "Crush Broom".
Overall, the Guilandina crista plant is an interesting plant with diverse uses and unique physical characteristics.Light
Guilandina crista, also known as the African guar, requires full sunlight for optimal growth. Exposure to sunlight is critical for photosynthesis, a process that enables plants to synthesize their food. Insufficient exposure to sunlight may result in stunted growth, fewer flowers, and reduced fruit production.
Temperature
The African guar is a tropical plant that thrives in warm temperatures. The plant requires a minimum temperature of 20°C to grow. Temperatures between 25°C to 35°C are ideal for the plant's growth, and plants can tolerate slightly higher temperatures. However, exposure to temperature below 20°C for an extended period is detrimental to the plant's growth and can lead to yellowing of leaves and poor growth.
Soil Requirements
The African guar prefers well-drained soils, and it can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils. The plant grows best in sandy loam to clay loam soils that have high organic matter content. Poorly drained soils lead to root rot and other diseases that may affect plant growth. The soil should have a pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. The plant needs regular watering, but the soil should not be waterlogged to avoid waterlogging and other root diseases. Fertilizers can be added to the soil to improve nutrient content and enhance plant growth.
Cultivation Methods
Guilandina crista auct. non (L.) Small, also known as the bird-of-paradise tree, can be cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. It grows best in well-drained soils and requires full sunlight exposure. Planting should be done in the early spring or fall; choose a suitable site and dig a hole that's two times as wide as the root ball. The root ball should not be buried too deep; ensure the plant is planted to the same depth as in the original pot. After planting, water thoroughly.
Watering Needs
Watering is crucial for the proper growth of Guilandina crista. During the first year after planting, it is advisable to water the plant weekly or more, depending on the climate and soil type. The frequency of watering can be reduced gradually as the plant matures. The amount of water required depends on the soil's moisture level, and it is essential to prevent drying out. Guilandina crista is sensitive to waterlogging, and overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure the soil is well-drained.
Fertilization
Guilandina crista requires regular fertilization to maintain its health and appearance. Use a well-balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer twice a year, once during the spring and again in early summer. Spread the fertilizer around the dripline, and water thoroughly to allow the plant to absorb the nutrients. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can lead to excessive growth and susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Pruning
Guilandina crista benefits from regular pruning to remove any damaged, diseased, or dead branches. The best time to prune is during the late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Prune the branches a few inches above the nearest healthy branch. It is also advisable to shape the plant to promote a strong and healthy structure and to improve its appearance. However, avoid excessive pruning, as this can weaken the plant and reduce its overall health.
Propagation of Guilandina crista
Guilandina crista is commonly propagated through seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
The seeds should be collected from mature pods that have turned brown. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing to aid germination. Sow the seeds in a well-drained soil mixture and cover with a thin layer of soil. Water the soil regularly and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Germination usually occurs within 2 to 4 weeks.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken from healthy plants during the growing season. Select a stem that is healthy and free of diseases and pests. Cut a 10 to 12 cm long stem and remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant the stem in a well-draining soil mixture. Water the soil regularly and keep the soil moist but not soggy. The stem should root within 3 to 4 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Guilandina crista
Guilandina crista, also known as the breynia tree or the shoebutton ardisia, is a popular ornamental plant that can be found in gardens and parks worldwide. While it is generally a low-maintenance plant, it is susceptible to a few diseases and pests that can affect its health and appearance. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that can affect Guilandina crista and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves, stems, and fruits of Guilandina crista. To manage this disease, prune the infected branches and improve air circulation around the plant. You can also apply a fungicide to the plant, following the manufacturer's instructions. Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to become mushy and black. To prevent this disease, avoid overwatering and make sure the soil has good drainage. You can also use a fungicide to treat the soil, following the manufacturer's instructions. Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes white, powdery patches on the leaves of the plant. To control this disease, prune the infected branches and improve air circulation around the plant. You can also apply a fungicide to the plant, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the plant's leaves, causing them to turn yellow and eventually fall off. To control spider mites, rinse the plant with a strong stream of water to remove them from the leaves. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the plant, following the manufacturer's instructions. Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the plant's leaves and stems, causing them to curl and distort. To control aphids, rinse the plant with a strong stream of water to remove them from the leaves. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the plant, following the manufacturer's instructions. Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies that feed on the plant's leaves, causing holes and chewed edges. To control caterpillars, pick them off the plant by hand and place them in a bucket of soapy water. You can also use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to treat the plant, following the manufacturer's instructions.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can help keep your Guilandina crista healthy and beautiful.
