Overview
Macrolobium isopetalum (Harms) Aubrév. & Pellegr. var. macranthum J.Léonard is a type of leguminous tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to the tropical rainforests of Africa, specifically in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola. It is known for its beautiful flowers and is highly valued for its medicinal properties.
Common Names
This plant is known by many common names, including Mfumu (in the Chokwe language), Kondjoya, Mukanga (in Kikongo), and Muinga (in Angola). Some people also refer to it as the African tulip tree or the silk cotton tree.
Uses
The bark, leaves, and roots of the plant have been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes, including the treatment of fever, cough, asthma, respiratory disorders, and stomach problems. The bark of the plant is also used as an aphrodisiac and to treat impotence.
In addition to its medicinal properties, the plant is also used for timber, as the wood is highly valued for its strength, durability, and resistance to decay. The leaves can be used as fodder for livestock, and the flowers are used in traditional medicine to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Appearance
The Macrolobium isopetalum (Harms) Aubrév. & Pellegr. var. macranthum J.Léonard can grow up to 25 meters in height and has a diameter of up to 80 cm. The tree has a straight trunk with a dense, spreading crown. It has large leaves that are elliptical to obovate in shape and can grow up to 30 cm long. The flowers are pink to purplish-red in color and are arranged in compact, pendulous clusters. The fruit of the plant is a long, thin pod that can grow up to 30 cm in length and contains numerous seeds.
In summary, the Macrolobium isopetalum (Harms) Aubrév. & Pellegr. var. macranthum J.Léonard is a valuable plant that is highly prized for its medicinal properties, timber, and other uses. It is a beautiful plant with large, attractive flowers and can be found in the tropical rainforests of Africa.
Light Requirements
Macrolobium isopetalum var. macranthum grows well in areas with bright light but partial shade. Direct sunlight can be harmful to the plant, causing leaf scorching and stunted growth. Shaded areas that permit some dappled sunlight to penetrate are ideal for the plant's growth. If grown indoors, provide bright indirect light or use specialized grow lights to supplement natural light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Macrolobium isopetalum var. macranthum is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The plant thrives in a warm and humid environment. Avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 10°C (50°F) as this can stunt growth or cause the plant to die back. In colder regions, grow the plant indoors or in a controlled greenhouse environment.
Soil Requirements
Macrolobium isopetalum var. macranthum prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil must retain adequate water to support the plant's growth but not waterlogged, which can lead to root rot. The soil pH should range between 6 and 7.5. The plant can tolerate a variety of soil types, but it grows best in loamy soils that are rich in nutrients. Amend the soil with organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve soil structure and fertility.
Cultivation
The Macrolobium isopetalum (Harms) Aubrév. & Pellegr. var. macranthum J.Léonard plant thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. It can grow in various soil types, including acidic, alkaline, loamy, or sandy soils. It requires well-drained soil with optimal pH levels of 6.0 to 7.5. The plant can grow up to 15 meters in height and requires ample space for growth. It prefers partial shade to full sun exposure.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moist soil to grow. Adequate watering is vital, especially during dry seasons. However, it's crucial to avoid waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering depends on the climate, soils, and growth stage. Overwatering can damage the roots and cause stunted growth. In contrast, under-watering can cause wilting and leaf dropping.
Fertilization
Macranthum J.Leonard needs regular fertilization to remain healthy and to induce optimal growth. You can use balanced N-P-K (nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium) fertilizers with additional trace minerals such as iron, magnesium, and calcium. A fertilizer ratio of 10-10-10 or 16-8-24 is recommended. The application frequency varies depending on the growth stage, soil fertility, and the type of fertilizer used.
Pruning
Pruning promotes healthy growth and helps maintain the desired plant shape. You can prune to control the height and size, improve branching, remove dead or diseased branches, and increase air circulation. Pruning should be done when the plants are dormant to prevent damage. For best results, use sharp and clean pruning tools to avoid injuring the plant.
Propagation of Macrolobium Isopetalum (Harms) Aubrév. & Pellegr. Var. Macranthum J.Léonard
Propagation of Macrolobium Isopetalum (Harms) Aubrév. & Pellegr. var. macranthum J.Léonard can be done through various methods, including seed propagation, vegetative propagation, and air layering.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Macrolobium Isopetalum (Harms) Aubrév. & Pellegr. var. macranthum J.Léonard are collected from mature pods, which are dried and stored until the seeds can be extracted. The seeds are then soaked in water for several hours to facilitate germination. After this, the seeds can be planted in a well-draining potting mix or directly in the ground. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is usually done through stem cuttings. Cuttings of 10-15 cm in length are taken from the mother plant and treated with rooting hormones to encourage rooting. The cuttings are then planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until roots develop. This process can take several weeks.
Air Layering
Air layering is another method of propagation for Macrolobium Isopetalum (Harms) Aubrév. & Pellegr. var. macranthum J.Léonard. In this method, a small cut is made in a stem, and the area is treated with rooting hormone. The cut is then wrapped in moist sphagnum moss and covered with plastic to retain moisture. Once roots have developed, the new plant can be removed and potted in soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Macrolobium isopetalum var. macranthum
Macrolobium isopetalum var. macranthum, commonly known as "Jatobá-do-cerrado," is a leguminous tree native to Brazil. As with any plant, this species is vulnerable to diseases and pests that can compromise its growth and even lead to death. By following some preventive measures, it is possible to mitigate the damage caused by these agents.
Common Diseases
The most common diseases that affect Macrolobium isopetalum var. macranthum are fungal infections. Among them, we can highlight:
- Anthracnose: a disease caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides that causes damage to leaves, flowers, and fruits. To prevent contagion, it is essential to remove infected plant parts and destroy them. The use of copper-based fungicides is also indicated.
- Powdery mildew: caused by the fungi Oidium sp. and Erysiphe sp. It manifests itself through powdery white spots on the leaves, which turn yellow and fall off. To control it, it is recommended to use fungicides based on sulfur, neem oil, or potassium bicarbonate.
- Root rot: caused by species of the fungi Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, Phytophthora, and Pythium. It can cause wilting, yellowing of leaves, and death of the plant. To prevent it, avoid waterlogging, use well-drained soil, and apply fungicides based on metalaxyl and fosetyl-aluminum.
Common Pests
The pests that most commonly attack Macrolobium isopetalum var. macranthum are insects and mites. They suck the sap from the plant, causing deformations, yellowing, and wilting of the leaves. Some of the most recurrent ones are:
- Whiteflies: tiny insects that feed on the sap from the leaves' undersides, causing them to wither. The use of insecticides based on pymetrozine, bifenthrin, or imidacloprid can control them.
- Spider mites: microscopic arachnids that cause yellowing and the appearance of veins on the leaves. To control them, it is recommended to spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
- Caterpillars: the larvae of butterflies and moths, which eat the leaves' edges, causing damage to the plant. To prevent them, it is recommended to spray the plant with Bacillus thuringiensis-based insecticides.
It is important to remember that the preventive measures are the best way to maintain Macrolobium isopetalum var. macranthum's health. Therefore, keeping the plant clean, not over-fertilizing, and avoiding waterlogging and other stresses are crucial to preventing diseases and pests from appearing and compromising their development.
