Overview
Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms is a tropical evergreen tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is commonly known as "Sarawak Bean" due to its origin in Sarawak, Borneo. This plant has several uses, including medicinal and ornamental purposes.
Appearance
The tree of M. lamprophyllum can reach up to 20 meters in height, with a trunk diameter of up to 60 cm. The leaves are pinnate, typically growing up to 25 cm long with five to seven leaflets. These leaves are a lush green color, and the plant produces beautiful flowers that are pink or white with yellow centers.
Origin
M. lamprophyllum is native to Sarawak, Borneo, and is found in other parts of Southeast Asia as well. It thrives in tropical rainforests and can grow in various types of soil, including peat, clay, and sandy soils. The tree's life is believed to be around 50-100 years on average.
Common Uses
Medicinal properties of this plant's bark are believed to have antipyretic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic effects. In traditional medicine, its bark is used to treat illnesses such as fever, headache, and inflammation. Also, M. lamprophyllum is used for ornamental purposes due to its strong, sturdy trunk and lush green foliage.
Furthermore, locals use its wood for making furniture, boats, and construction materials. Additionally, some communities also believe that the tree is sacred and use it in various religious ceremonies and rituals.
Overall, Macrolobium lamprophyllum is a valuable tree species that serves several purposes - from its medicinal properties to its ornamental and industrial benefits.
Growth Conditions for Macrolobium Lamprophyllum Harms
Macrolobium Lamprophyllum Harms, also known as the Sapele tree, is indigenous to West Africa, where it is found in countries such as Cameroon, Angola, and Congo. This tree typically grows to about 30 meters in height and has a wide-spreading canopy.
Light Requirements
Macrolobium Lamprophyllum Harms is a tree species that thrives in areas with moderate to high sunlight exposure. The species is known to tolerate partial to full sun exposure. It is, however, essential to protect young seedlings from direct sunlight until they have gained enough strength to withstand it.
Temperature Requirements
The species prefers warm tropical to subtropical climates, with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 35°C. The tree species can withstand moderate frosts but cannot survive in areas with prolonged frost or freezing conditions.
Soil Requirements
The species can grow in a wide variety of well-draining soils, including sandy and clay soils. It is a hardy species that can tolerate acidic to moderately alkaline soils with a pH range of 4.5 to 7.5. However, the species prefers deep, rich, and well-drained soils with high organic matter content.
Overall, Macrolobium Lamprophyllum Harms is a tree species that can grow in a wide array of conditions that mimic its natural habitat. Meeting the above environmental conditions will help ensure its optimal growth and survival.
Cultivation
Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms grows well in bright light conditions with partial shade. It is recommended to plant it in well-draining soil with moderate moisture retention capacity. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 16-27°C, and it does not tolerate frost. Planting in a 20 to a 25-gallon pot could be advantageous as it provides enough room for its root system to develop.
Watering Needs
Watering frequency should be moderate, depending on the season and environmental conditions. Overwatering will cause root rot, and underwatering will hinder growth and lead to the yellowing of leaves. The soil should be moist but not soggy, and regular checks are necessary to ensure the soil remains evenly moist.
Fertilization
Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms responds well to slow-release nitrogen-based fertilizer. The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, which is from early spring to around September. Overfertilization can lead to excessive vegetative growth and damage the roots, so it should be avoided.
Pruning
Pruning of Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms should be done when necessary. Regular pruning helps maintain its size and shape, eliminates dead parts, and promotes new growth. Spring is the best time for pruning as it allows ample time for recovery from any damage or shock. When pruning, ensure that the pruning tool is sharp and sterilized. Wiping with a cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol could be effective in disinfecting the tool.
Propagation of Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms
Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms, also known as "tatajuba" or "guarita" in Brazil, is a tree species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The plant is native to the Amazon region and is mainly used for timber and medicinal purposes. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods, which are described below:
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagating Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms. The seeds are collected from the mature tree during the fruiting season, and then dried and stored until they are ready for use. The seeds can be sown in a mixture of soil and sand, placed in a nursery bed under shade, and watered regularly. The germination process can take up to six weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to a polybag once they reach two to three inches in height.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another method of propagating Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms. Cuttings are taken from mature trees during the dormant season and treated with a rooting hormone. The cuttings are then planted in a mixture of soil and sand and placed in a greenhouse or under shade. After a few weeks, the cuttings will begin to develop roots and can be transplanted to a polybag or nursery bed.
Air-layering Propagation
Air-layering is a propagation method that involves cutting a small section of the bark from a mature tree and wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss or soil. The area is then covered with plastic wrap to retain moisture and left for some time until roots emerge. The new plant can then be cut from the parent tree and transplanted into a pot or directly into the ground.
Propagation of Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms can be done by any of the methods described above, depending on the availability of resources, time, and expertise. However, it is worth noting that seed propagation is the most straightforward and suitable method for beginners.
Disease Management
Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms is generally a healthy plant and is not particularly susceptible to many diseases. However, like all plants, it can fall prey to certain fungal, viral, and bacterial diseases. Some of the common diseases that may affect this plant include:
Fungal Diseases
One of the most common fungal diseases that may affect the Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms plant is anthracnose. This disease is characterized by the appearance of brown or black spots on the leaves, stems, and pods of the plant. The spots may coalesce and cause the tissue to die, which can result in stunted growth and reduced yields. To manage anthracnose, plant debris and infected plant material should be removed and disposed of properly. The application of fungicides may also be necessary to prevent further infection of new growth.
Viral Diseases
Viral diseases can also affect the Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms plant, with the most common being the mosaic virus. This virus causes mottling and yellowing of the leaves and can lead to reduced photosynthesis and yield. To prevent the spread of the mosaic virus, all infected plants should be removed and burned. Insecticides may also be used to control insect vectors that transmit viral diseases.
Pest Management
Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms can also be infested by a number of pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some of the common pests that may affect this plant include:
Cutworms
Cutworms are the larvae of various species of moths and can cause significant damage to the stems of the Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms plant. They are known to feed on the stem bark at or just below the soil surface, causing wilting and death of the plant. To manage cutworms, cultural control measures such as crop rotation and the removal of plant debris can be effective.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause considerable damage to the leaves of the Macrolobium lamprophyllum Harms plant. They feed on the plant juices, causing yellowing and mottling of the leaves. In severe infestations, the leaves may fall off prematurely and the growth of the plant may be stunted. To control spider mites, chemical pesticides or biological control agents such as predatory mites can be used.
