Overview:
Melicope anisata (Mann) T.G. Hartley & B.C. Stone, also known as “pehu”, is a plant species belonging to the Rutaceae family. It is primarily found in Hawaii, Fiji, and Samoa, but can also be found in other parts of the Pacific region. The plant is a small tree or shrub that grows up to 10 meters tall and is often found in the understory of forests.
Description:
The Melicope anisata is characterized by its glossy, dark green leaves and white or pale green flowers that have a strong anise-like scent. The fruit is a small capsule that contains small, black seeds. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray-brown in color.
Common names:
Melicope anisata has a variety of common names that vary depending on the region. In Hawaii, it is called “alani”, “ani”, “anihi”, or “laurelwood”. In Fiji, it is referred to as “pehu”, “pasi”, or “vatu”. In Samoa, it is known as “falavai” or “fofu”.
Uses:
The Melicope anisata has a variety of traditional medicinal uses. In Hawaii, it has been used as a remedy for coughs, colds, fever, and stomach ailments. In Fiji, it has been used to treat headaches, asthma, and rheumatism. In Samoa, it is used to treat skin irritations and general aches and pains. The oil extracted from the leaves and bark of the Melicope anisata has also been used in traditional perfumes and soaps.
Growth Conditions for Melicope anisata
Melicope anisata, commonly known as Tahitian arrowroot, is a species of flowering plant in the citrus family Rutaceae. This plant is native to the Pacific, specifically in Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. Tahitian arrowroot is commonly cultivated for its edible roots that are used as a staple food in the Pacific islands. To grow a healthy and productive Tahitian arrowroot, the following growth conditions must be considered:
Light Requirement
Tahitian arrowroot plants require moderate to full sunlight to grow well. They typically grow under canopy trees and forest edges in their natural habitat. When grown in a garden or farm, the plants should be exposed to approximately 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. A shady area with dappled sunlight is also suitable for this plant. Too much shade will result in low yields, small tubers, and low-quality foliage.
Temperature Requirements
Tahitian arrowroot plants prefer a warm and humid tropical climate with temperatures ranging between 20°C to 35°C. These plants can be grown in areas with temperatures lower than 20°C, but they will grow slower and produce smaller tubers. However, temperatures above 35°C can cause excessive leaf drop and slow growth. In the event of frost, the leaves will die back, and the plant will go into dormancy until the warmer months return.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for growing Tahitian arrowroot should be fertile, well-drained, and rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5-6.5 is also suitable. The roots of the plant are shallow, so the soil should be loose and friable, allowing for easy penetration and growth. It is recommended to incorporate compost or well-rotted manure into the planting bed to provide additional nutrients, retain moisture, and improve soil structure.
Cultivation of Melicope anisata
Melicope anisata is a plant that prefers warm and tropical climates. It requires a lot of light, warmth, and humidity to grow properly. It can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. However, cuttings are the preferred method because it is easier and faster than planting from seeds.
Watering Needs
Watering is essential for the plant's growth and survival. Melicope anisata requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. It would be best if you watered the plant deeply, but non-frequently, to prevent waterlogging and root rot. The soil should be moist but well-draining. During the dormant season, reduce watering to once every two weeks.
Fertilization
Melicope anisata requires regular fertilization for healthy growth and good yields. Use a balanced fertilizer, with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilizers should be applied every two weeks during the growing season and once a month during the dormant season.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary for the health and shape of the plant. It helps to encourage new growth, improve the plant's shape, and prevent disease and pest infestation. Prune the plant back to about half its size during the dormant season to prevent it from becoming too big. Remove any dead or diseased branches, and cut back any crossing branches.
Propagation of Melicope anisata
Melicope anisata, commonly known as Horsfieldia, is propagated by two methods: seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Melicope anisata are small and have a hard outer coat. They require scarification or soaking in hot water to encourage germination. The ideal temperature for germination is between 25 to 30 °C. The seedlings can be transplanted to individual containers once they have developed their first true leaves and have grown to a suitable size.
Vegetative Propagation
Melicope anisata can be propagated vegetatively by stem cuttings or layering. Stem cuttings are taken from healthy, mature plants and should be 5-8 cm long with at least two nodes. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mixture. They should be kept in a warm, humid environment and watered regularly until new growth appears. Layering involves bending a low lying branch and burying a portion of it underground. The buried section will produce new roots and can be separated and transplanted once it has established.
Disease and Pest Management for Melicope anisata (Mann) T.G. Hartley & B.C. Stone
Melicope anisata is a species of plant that belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is commonly known as 'horopito' or 'bush pepper' and is native to New Zealand. This plant has a unique peppery taste and is often used as a spice. While this plant is generally robust and hardy, it is still susceptible to various pests and diseases.
Common pests affecting Melicope anisata
1. Spider Mites: These small arachnids inhabit the lower surfaces of leaves during dry and hot periods. They suck on the sap of the leaves, causing them to curl and turn yellow or brown. To prevent spider mites, keep the plants in a high-humidity environment and make sure to regularly water them. If infestation occurs, try using insecticidal soaps or oils or neem oil.
2. Scale Insects: Scale insects are parasitic and feed on the sap of the leaves and stems, leading to yellowing and wilting of the plant. The infested plant shows signs of a sticky or shiny substance on it. To curb infestation, make sure to remove any affected parts of the plant and regularly water them. You can also use insecticides or neem oil on affected plants.
3. Caterpillars: Some species of caterpillars are also a threat to Melicope anisata leaves. They chew through the leaves, leaving holes, and at times, lead to small-scale defoliation. To manage these pests, handpick and remove any visible caterpillars on the plant. Also, insecticides and neem oil can be a useful measure to control the damage caused by them.
Common Diseases affecting Melicope anisata
1. Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease attracts a white, powdery growth on the leaves, which leads to their wilting. Maintaining proper air circulation and admitting sunlight to the plant can prevent this disease. Also, fungicides can be an effective measure to manage powdery mildew.
2. Leaf Spot: This fungal disease leads to the development of small to large brownish-black spots on the leaves. It occurs when the plant is over-watered. Ensure that water does not stand in the pot's bottom and provide adequate drainage to prevent the plant from being infected. In case of leaf spot outbreak, remove and dispose of infected leaves carefully.
3. Root Rot: Over-watering leads to root rot, causing the roots to decay and die. This makes the plant prone to many other diseases until it eventually deteriorates and dies. To prevent this, ensure that the plant has adequate drainage and adjust watering practices. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
In conclusion, Melicope anisata is a robust and hardy plant, and pest and disease control can generally be maintained by providing it with proper growing conditions. But when attacks occur, it is crucial to act promptly to prevent the infestation from spreading. Sometimes, using natural remedies like neem oil, insecticidal soaps, and fungicides can provide the necessary measures to manage these pests and diseases.
