Overview
Malpighia infestissima L.C. Rich. ex Niedenzu is a species of plant belonging to the family Malpighiaceae. It is also known by its common names, such as the cockspur tree, barber's cherry, or Manchineel-cherry. The plant is native to the tropical regions of South America and can grow up to 15 meters tall.
Description
Malpighia infestissima L.C. Rich. ex Niedenzu has a distinctive appearance with its spiny stem and branches. The leaves are small, arranged alternately on the branches, and have an oval shape with a glossy, dark green surface. The flowers are small, pink, and grow in clusters. The fruit of the plant is small, red, and resembles a cherry.
Uses
The fruit of Malpighia infestissima L.C. Rich. ex Niedenzu is edible, although it has a sour taste. It can be eaten fresh or used in making jams and jellies. The bark of the tree is used in traditional medicine for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. However, caution must be exercised, as the sap and fruit of the tree are poisonous and can cause severe skin irritation, blindness, or even death if ingested.
Aside from its uses as food and medicine, Malpighia infestissima L.C. Rich. ex Niedenzu is also used in landscaping for its ornamental value. It is a hardy plant that can withstand drought and salt spray, making it suitable for seaside gardens.
Growth Conditions of Malpighia infestissima L.C. Rich. ex Niedenzu
Malpighia infestissima, also known as the cockspur or wild cashew, is a shrub or small tree that grows in tropical and subtropical regions of South America. To ensure optimal growth and development of this plant, the following conditions are recommended:
Light
Malpighia infestissima requires full sun to partial shade for proper growth. It can tolerate full sun exposure but may not thrive in shaded areas. Therefore, it is advisable to plant these trees in areas that receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
Temperature
This plant thrives in warm and humid conditions. It prefers temperatures ranging between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius (68-86°F). Temperatures below 10°C (50°F) may result in slow growth and even death of the plant. Additionally, frost should be avoided at all costs as it can damage the plant.
Soil
Malpighia infestissima grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. A soil pH of 5.5 to 7.5 is ideal. It is also important to note that the plant is sensitive to salt and prefers soils with low to moderate levels of salinity. Additionally, waterlogging should be avoided as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.
In conclusion, providing adequate light, temperature, and soil conditions is crucial for the healthy growth and development of Malpighia infestissima. It is important to note that these conditions may vary depending on the specific geographic location of the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Malpighia infestissima L.C. Rich. ex Niedenzu, commonly referred to as the “wild crepe ginger” is a hardy plant that requires well-drained soils with adequate sunlight and air circulation. The plant can be grown in the ground or in pots and should be placed at a location where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. Ensure that the soil is kept moist but not waterlogged to avoid the development of root rot.
Watering Needs
The watering frequency of Malpighia infestissima L.C. Rich. ex Niedenzu typically depends on the prevailing environmental conditions and the stage of growth of the plant. During the growth period, the plant should be watered frequently to ensure that the soil is continually moist. However, it is essential to note that overwatering can lead to waterlogging and root rot, which can kill the plant.
Fertilization
The wild crepe ginger requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and improve flowering. During the growing season, the plant should be fertilized with a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks. The fertilizer should be applied evenly around the plant to avoid over-fertilization in specific areas. Additionally, it is important to reduce fertilization during the dormant season to avoid fertilizer burn or other harmful effects on the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and promote healthy growth of Malpighia infestissima L.C. Rich. ex Niedenzu. The plant can be pruned throughout the year, but it is advisable to do it during the dormant period or immediately after flowering. Pruning should focus on removing dead, diseased, or damaged parts of the plant to reduce the risk of infection and increase air circulation. It is also essential to remove any crossing branches and unwanted growth that may affect the plant's overall shape and appearance.
Propagation of Malpighia Infestissima
The propagation of Malpighia infestissima L.C. Rich. ex Niedenzu can be done through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Seed propagation
The plant produces small fruits that contain 1-2 seeds each. The seeds can be collected from the mature fruit and sown immediately. It is recommended to soak the seeds in water for about 24 hours before sowing them.
The ideal time for seed sowing is during the spring season. The seeds are sown in well-draining soil mixed with compost. The seeds should be planted about 1-2 cm deep and covered with a thin layer of sand or soil.
The seeds require a warm and moist environment to germinate. The germination usually takes around 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be provided with ample sunlight for healthy growth.
Cutting propagation
The propagation through cuttings is also a feasible method. For this, select healthy semi-hardwood stems with a length of approximately 15-20 cm. These cuttings should be taken during the spring or early summer season.
The lower leaves of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting's bottom should be dipped in rooting hormone powder. The cutting is then planted in well-draining soil, preferably a mixture of sand and peat moss, and kept in a warm and humid place.
The cuttings take about 6-8 weeks to form roots and become established. Once the roots have formed, the cutting can be transplanted to a permanent spot with ample sunlight.
Grafting propagation
Grafting is a useful method for M. Infestissima as it helps in getting early fruiting and checking the attack of pests and diseases. It is also helpful in growing the plant in unfavorable conditions.
The grafting is usually done during the spring season. The rootstock selected should be a healthy and robust plant. The scion used should have a diameter of approximately 5 mm and be free from any disease or pests.
The rootstock and scion are grafted together using a suitable grafting technique. The grafted plant should be kept in a warm and humid environment for better survival rates. The grafted plant can be transplanted to a permanent spot once it has established itself.
Disease Management
Malpighia infestissima L.C. Rich. ex Niedenzu is usually a quite resistant plant. However, some diseases can attack it, such as:
- Anthracnose: caused by the fungus Colletotrichum acutatum, it causes spots and cankers on leaves and stems. To manage it, prune and destroy infected parts of the plant and apply fungicides.
- Powdery mildew: caused by fungi from the genus Erysiphe, it causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To manage it, apply fungicides and improve air circulation.
- Root rot: caused by overwatering, it causes a yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage it, remove infected plants, water less and improve drainage.
Pest Management
Malpighia infestissima L.C. Rich. ex Niedenzu can also be attacked by some pests, such as:
- Aphids: these small insects suck sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and yellow. To manage them, spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: these insects feed on the sap of the plant, causing it to weaken and yellow. To manage them, apply a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: these tiny pests suck sap from the undersides of the leaves, causing them to develop a stippled appearance and to eventually yellow and fall off. To manage them, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap.
