Description of Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax
Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax, also known as the Selingan Island Macaranga, is a plant species that belongs to the family of Euphorbiaceae. This plant species is native to Selingan Island, Sabah, Malaysia.
Common Names
The Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax has several common names, including the Selingan Island Macaranga, Selingan Giant Macaranga, Selingan Island Mahang, and Lutut-Api Selingan.
Uses
The Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax has been used for medicinal purposes by the indigenous people of Sabah, Malaysia. The bark of the plant is believed to treat fever, stomachache, and other ailments. The leaves of this plant have also been used as a traditional remedy for coughs.
Additionally, Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax is used in building materials. Its strong and durable wood is used to construct houses and boats in the region.
General Appearance
Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 15 meters in height. The bark of the tree is covered with tiny white dots, which are actually lenticels that allow the tree to breathe. The leaves of this plant are large and oval-shaped, with a pointed tip. They are green on the upper side and lighter in color on the underside.
The flowers of the Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax are small and greenish-yellow in color. They are arranged in clusters and bloom from May to June. The fruit of this plant is a capsule that contains numerous small seeds.
Overall, the Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax is a valuable plant species that has both medicinal and practical uses in the region where it is found.
Growth Conditions for Macaranga Magnistipulosa Pax
Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax is a plant species that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. The plant is found in Southeast Asia, particularly in Borneo where it grows in lowland rainforests and on limestone hills. The growth conditions for Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax include light, temperature, and soil requirements,
Light Requirements
Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax grows best under partial shade. The plant prefers a shaded environment with moderate light levels. Too much direct sunlight can damage the leaves or cause leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm temperatures and does not tolerate extreme cold or frost. The ideal temperature range for the growth and development of Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax is between 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures lower than 15°C or higher than 35°C can cause stress to the plant and affect its growth.
Soil Requirements
Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax has specific soil requirements for optimal growth. The plant prefers well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. It grows best in soils that are slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. Additionally, the plant does well in soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant is also adapted to grow well in limestone soils, which are common in Borneo rainforests.
Cultivation methods
Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax, commonly known as the Giant Leaf Tree, is a tropical plant that thrives in warm, humid conditions. It is best grown in well-drained soil, with a pH range of 4.5 to 7.5. The plant prefers partial shade and should be shielded from direct sunlight. When planting the Giant Leaf Tree, dig a hole that is about twice the size of the root ball. Back-fill with soil, water well and mulch the area around the plant to keep the soil moist. Transplanting of the plant should be done during the rainy season.
Watering needs
Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax requires adequate watering, especially during the dry season when the soil tends to dry out. Water the plant every few days, or when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid over-watering, as this may lead to root rot. During prolonged periods of dry weather, it is crucial to ensure that the plant receives enough water.
Fertilization
To encourage healthy growth and development, Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax requires regular fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and potassium every three months. Alternatively, use a liquid fertilizer regularly during the growing season. It is crucial to follow the recommended application rates on the fertilizer label and avoid over-fertilizing as this may lead to poor plant growth and development.
Pruning
Pruning the Giant Leaf Tree is necessary to control its size and promote branching. Prune the plant during the dry season, after flowering, and the formation of new growth. Focus on removing weak or damaged stems, deadwood, and overgrown branches. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid injuring the plant. Be mindful of the plant's natural shape and avoid excessive pruning, which may distort the plant's appearance.
Propagation of Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax
Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax is a tropical tree from Southeast Asia that belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae. It is commonly known as the big-stipule macaranga due to its large stipules that cover the stem and petiole.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method used to propagate Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax. The seeds are small and should be sown as soon as they are ripe. The seedlings take about 3-4 weeks to germinate. The soil should be kept moist until the seedlings are well-established.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is an alternative method used to propagate Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax. The cuttings should be taken from the terminal or lateral branches and should have at least four nodes. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a propagating mix. The environment should be kept humid, and the cuttings should be kept out of direct sun until they have developed roots.
Propagation by air layering
Propagation by air layering is another method used to propagate Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax. Air layering involves making a small cut in a branch, wrapping it in moss, and covering it with plastic. The moss is kept moist, and roots will develop from the cut. Once the roots have developed, the branch can be cut from the parent plant and planted in a pot with a well-draining soil mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax
Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax is a beautiful tropical evergreen plant, but it is prone to various diseases and pests that can cause significant damage. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and how to manage them:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves of Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax. The spots may vary in size and may merge to form large patches. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and destroy them. Keep the plant foliage dry by watering at the base of the plant and not overhead. You may also use copper-based fungicides to prevent the spread of the disease.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that affects many plants, including Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax. It appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant, and it can cause significant damage if left uncontrolled. To manage this disease, ensure proper air circulation around the plant by pruning infected parts and staking to support weak stems. You can also spray a combination of neem oil and baking soda solution to treat the infection.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are common pests that affect many plants. They suck sap from the plant, causing wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. To manage scale insects, prune heavily infested branches and leaves and dispose of them. You can also use horticultural oil such as neem oil to smother the insects, prevent them from feeding, and eventually kill them.
Caterpillars
Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the foliage of many plants, including Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax. They cause significant damage to the plant by eating the leaves and can strip the plant of all its foliage if left unchecked. To manage caterpillars, remove them by hand or spray a Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide on the plant to kill them.
These are some of the common pests and diseases that may affect Macaranga magnistipulosa Pax, and how to manage them. With proper care and management, you can maintain a healthy and beautiful plant.
