Overview:
Mascarenhasia arborescens A.DC. var. arborescens, commonly known as Seringua, is a slow-growing evergreen tree species belonging to the family Malpighiaceae. It is found in several countries, including Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina, and Uruguay. The tree typically grows up to 10 meters in height and can live up to 100 years.
Appearance:
The Seringua tree has a thick, rough bark with a dark brown color. Its leaves are shiny and green, and they have an oval shape with a pointed tip. The tree produces clusters of yellow flowers with a sweet fragrance in the spring and summer, which later on, produce small fruits that are consumed predominantly by birds.
Uses:
Seringua is primarily used for ornamental purposes due to its beautiful flowers, which attract pollinators like bees and butterflies. The wood of the tree is hard and dense, and it is used in construction, carvings, and furniture-making. The leaves are believed to have medicinal properties and have been used traditionally to treat ailments like coughs, colds, and fever. The fruit of the tree is also edible and consumed by some people.
Cultivation:
Seringua trees grow best in full sun or partial shade, with fertile and well-drained soil. They are moderately drought tolerant, but regular watering is necessary for their initial growth. The tree requires minimal pruning, but the removal of damaged branches is necessary to maintain its overall health. The tree can be propagated through seeds or cuttings.
Growth Conditions for Mascarenhasia arborescens var. arborescens
Light: This plant species requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. In areas with hot climates, it can tolerate more shade to protect from the high-intensity sunlight. On the other hand, when grown in lower light conditions, it may exhibit slower growth than expected and have a higher risk of pests and diseases. For optimal development, ensure that it gets enough sunlight.
Temperature: Mascarenhasia arborescens var. arborescens thrives in temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. It can survive short periods with higher or lower temperatures, but prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures (below 10 degrees Celsius or above 40 degrees Celsius) can negatively affect its growth. If you live in areas where temperature fluctuations are frequent, consider planting in a location where it can get some protection from extreme weather.
Soil: The soil requirements for this plant are moderately fertile, moist, and well-drained. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. A good drainage system will help prevent waterlogging that can lead to root rot. Using a well-draining soil mix with good organic matter will help provide an excellent environment for the plant to develop healthy roots. Furthermore, it prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils, with a pH range from 5.5-7.5.
Fertilizer: Fertilizing the plant can help augment its growth, especially during the blooming period. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium can provide all the necessary nutrients for the plant. Adding organic compost or manure to the soil mix will also provide a sufficient nutrient supply for the plant.
Water: Consistent watering helps promote the growth of Mascarenhasia arborescens var. arborescens. The plant should be watered regularly, preferably twice a week to maintain moist soil. During the blooming period or hot weather, frequent watering may be required. Ensure the soil is draining well and not waterlogged. Drying out of the soil should also be avoided, as it may hinder the plant's growth.
Cultivation methods
Mascarenhasia arborescens A.DC. var. arborescens, commonly known as the "Wild Champak," is a tropical evergreen tree that grows up to 20 meters tall. It is native to Madagascar, Mauritius, and Reunion. If you want to cultivate this beautiful plant, it is vital to provide it with the right growing conditions.
Firstly, it prefers well-draining loamy soil with good organic content. Secondly, it needs a warm and humid climate with temperatures ranging from 18 to 28°C. It cannot withstand prolonged periods of frost or drought. Thus, plant it in a location where it gets partial to full sun exposure, sheltered from harsh winds.
Watering needs
Mascarenhasia arborescens A.DC. var. arborescens needs consistent and regular watering, especially during the growing season. The plant requires moist soil, so water it generously every couple of days. However, ensure that the pot or soil has good drainage to avoid waterlogging, which could lead to root rot. During winter, when the plant is dormant, reduce the frequency of watering and let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilization
The Wild Champak requires regular feeding because of its rapid growth rate. Therefore, apply a balanced fertilizer with a 2:1:2 or 3:1:2 ratio of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). Fertilize every two to three weeks during the growing season, reducing the frequency during winter. Organic fertilizers like compost and manure are also an excellent option for feeding the plant.
Pruning
Mascarenhasia arborescens A.DC. var. arborescens needs minimal pruning, mainly if grown in the garden. However, if you have it in a pot or container, prune to maintain an appropriate size and shape. Firstly, remove any dead, diseased, or yellowed leaves. Secondly, cut back any branches that are growing too tall or leggy. Lastly, prune after the flowering season to encourage bushier and more compact growth.
Propagation of Mascarenhasia arborescens A.DC. var. arborescens
Mascarenhasia arborescens A.DC. var. arborescens is typically propagated through cuttings or seeds.
Cuttings
This plant can be propagated through softwood cuttings taken during the spring or summer. Using a sharp and clean pair of scissors, cut a 4-5 inch section of new growth from the tip of a healthy plant. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist until it roots in four to six weeks.
Seeds
Mascarenhasia arborescens A.DC. var. arborescens can be grown from seeds, but the germination process can be slow. To propagate this plant from seeds, the seeds need to be cold stratified for at least four weeks before planting. Start by placing the seeds in a damp paper towel or in peat moss, then seal the seeds in a plastic bag and place it in the refrigerator for four weeks. After four weeks, remove the seeds from the refrigerator, plant them in well-draining soil and water them regularly. Germination may take up to several months.
Disease Management
Mascarenhasia arborescens A.DC. var. arborescens, also known as bois noir, can be prone to several diseases that can severely affect its growth and productivity. Some common diseases that can infect this plant are:
- Crown Rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the plant's stem base and root system. It can cause the plant to wilt and die. To manage this disease, remove infected plants and avoid planting in poorly-drained soil.
- Black Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes black spots on the plant's leaves. It can cause defoliation and weaken the plant. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering to manage this disease.
- Anthracnose: This is another fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on leaves, stems, and fruits. It can also cause defoliation and weaken the plant. To manage this disease, remove infected plant parts, improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
- Mosaic Virus: This is a viral disease that causes distorted and mottled leaves. It can severely affect the plant's growth and yield. To manage this disease, remove infected plants and control the insect vectors that spread the virus.
Pest Management
Several pests can also attack Mascarenhasia arborescens A.DC. var. arborescens, leading to a reduction in plant health and productivity. Some common pests that can affect this plant are:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck sap from the plant's leaves and transmit viruses. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
- Thrips: These tiny insects can cause distorted and discolored leaves and transmit viruses. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and encourage natural predators like lacewing flies.
- Spider Mites: These tiny insects can cause stippling or yellowing of leaves and produce fine webs. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and increase humidity around the plant.
- Scale Insects: These small insects can feed on the plant's sap and cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage scale insects, use insecticidal oil, prune heavily-infested parts, or introduce natural predators like parasitic wasps.
