Origin and Common Names
Lithocarpus pachyphyllus, commonly known as the thick-leafed oak or tanbark oak, is a species of evergreen tree in the beech family, Fagaceae. This tree is native to eastern Asia, including China, Taiwan, Japan, and the Philippines.
General Appearance
The Lithocarpus pachyphyllus can grow up to 40 meters tall and 1 meter in diameter. It has an oval-shaped crown with a spreading canopy and a straight trunk. The branches are broad and sturdy, forming a strong and durable framework for the crown. The leaves of the tree are thick, leathery, and elliptical in shape, measuring around 5 - 20 cm in length and 3 - 12 cm in breadth. They are dark green on the upper surface and light green on the lower surface, with a shiny and smooth texture. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, followed by acorns that are large (around 3cm in diameter) and spherical in shape, with a rough outer shell that is yellowish-brown and covered in tiny, hair-like spines.
Uses
The Lithocarpus pachyphyllus has several uses. The timber of this tree is hard, strong, and durable, making it useful for construction, furniture-making, and shipbuilding. The bark of the tree contains tannins, which are used for making dyes, leather, and ink. The acorns of the tree are also edible and used for food, either roasted or boiled. The Lithocarpus pachyphyllus is also cultivated as an ornamental tree, prized for its attractive foliage and impressive size and shape.
Light Requirements
Lithocarpus pachyphyllus is a shade-loving plant that thrives in partially shaded regions with filtered sunlight. The plant should be grown in areas with abundant shade to prevent the leaves from scorching or fading. When grown indoors, the plant should be placed near a shaded window to prevent excessive exposure to sunlight.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soils with a pH range of 4 to 7. The soil should be slightly acidic, with high levels of organic matter content. The substrate should be rich in nutrients, with a high water-holding capacity to maintain adequate moisture levels. Lithocarpus pachyphyllus plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy soils, loamy soils, and clay soils.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but thrives in warm and humid environments. The ideal temperature range for Lithocarpus pachyphyllus is between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius. It can survive temperatures as low as -5 degrees Celsius and high as 35 degrees Celsius. However, the plant should be protected from extreme temperatures as it may affect its growth and development.
Cultivation Methods:
The Lithocarpus Pachyphyllus plant grows best in well-draining, loamy soil. It prefers a partially shaded area that receives a few hours of direct sunlight. This plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. When planting the Lithocarpus Pachyphyllus, dig a hole that is twice as wide and of the same depth as the plant's root ball. Fill the hole with soil mixed with compost and water thoroughly.
Watering Needs:
The Lithocarpus Pachyphyllus plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not wet, as over-watering can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply but less frequently in winter to prevent over-watering.
Fertilization:
During the growing season, the Lithocarpus Pachyphyllus plant benefits from monthly feedings of a balanced fertilizer. Use a slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer diluted to half its recommended strength. Fertilize the plant sparingly in winter, as it goes into a period of dormancy.
Pruning:
The Lithocarpus Pachyphyllus plant does not typically require pruning, but it can be done to control its growth or shape. Prune in early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Cut branches that cross and rub against each other. Pinch the plant's tips to promote bushier growth and remove faded flowers to encourage more blooming.
Propagation of Lithocarpus pachyphyllus
Lithocarpus pachyphyllus, commonly known as the thick-leaved oak, is a tree species that can be propagated using different methods. A combination of sexual and asexual propagation can also be used to produce a large number of plants.
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating Lithocarpus pachyphyllus is through seed propagation. Seeds are collected from ripe fruits and soaked in water for a few hours before sowing. Seeds should be sown immediately, as they have a low storage life.
The seeds should be sown in a mixture of sand and peat moss in a 1:1 ratio, at a depth of about 1 inch. The planted seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil, watered, and placed in a warm and shaded area. The seedlings will start to emerge after 4-6 weeks.
Cutting propagation
Lithocarpus pachyphyllus can be propagated through cutting propagation. The best time to take cuttings is in early spring when the sap is rising. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants, and a rooting hormone should be applied to the end of the cuttings to increase the chances of rooting.
The cuttings should be placed in a potting mix containing perlite and peat moss. The potting mix should be moist but not wet. The cuttings should be placed in a shaded area, and misted regularly. The cuttings will take about 4-6 weeks to root.
Air layering propagation
Another method of propagating Lithocarpus pachyphyllus is through air layering. This method involves girdling a branch and covering the wound with damp sphagnum moss and plastic wrap. The moss should be kept moist until the roots start to form.
Once the roots have formed, the branch can be cut below the newly formed roots and potted in a potting mix containing perlite, peat moss, and sand. The potted plants should be kept in a shaded area and misted regularly until they are established.
Disease and Pest Management for Lithocarpus Pachyphyllus
Lithocarpus pachyphyllus is relatively disease and pest-resistant. However, certain diseases and pests might still attack the plant, especially when grown in unfavorable conditions. Proper management of diseases and pests is crucial to maintaining the health and productivity of Lithocarpus pachyphyllus.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that Lithocarpus pachyphyllus might be susceptible to is fungal leaf spot. Fungal leaf spot appears as brown or black spots on the leaves, and it can be transmitted through water or soil. To manage fungal leaf spot, remove the affected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used as a preventive measure.
Another disease that can affect Lithocarpus pachyphyllus is powdery mildew, a fungal disease that manifests as white powdery growth on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure there is adequate spacing between plants for good air circulation, and avoid wetting the foliage when watering. Fungicides can also control powdery mildew if applied early.
Common Pests
Lithocarpus pachyphyllus is also resistant to most pests, but some insects may attack the plant. The most common insect pests that affect Lithocarpus pachyphyllus are scale insects, spider mites, and aphids.
Scale insects, visible as small bumps on the leaves or branches, can be controlled by handpicking or pruning the affected areas. Using insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils can also help manage this pest.
Spider mites, which appear as white specks on the leaves, can be managed by increasing humidity and applying water frequently. Insecticidal soaps or neem oil can also help control spider mites.
Aphids, visible as small green, black, or yellow insects, can cause damage by sucking plant sap. To prevent aphids, use natural predators like ladybugs or release parasitic wasps. Soap sprays or horticultural oils can also control aphids.
Overall, proper maintenance practices, such as regular pruning and sanitizing tools, will help prevent the spread of diseases and pests in Lithocarpus pachyphyllus. In case of severe infestation or disease, seek professional advice from an agricultural extension officer or horticulturist.
