Memecylon walikalense A.& R.Fern.
Memecylon walikalense A.& R.Fern. is a plant species belonging to the Melastomataceae family. It is endemic to the Western Ghats of India. The plant was first described by A. & R. Fernandes in 1988.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Walik Warang in Kannada language.
Uses
The plant has medicinal properties and is used in Ayurvedic medicine. The bark of the plant is used to treat fever, diarrhea, and dysentery. The leaves have astringent properties and are used to treat skin diseases.
General Appearance
The plant is a small tree that grows up to 10 meters tall. The bark of the tree is smooth and greyish-brown in color. The leaves are simple, alternate and elliptical in shape with a length of 6-10 cm. The flowers are pink or purple in color and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a small blue or black berry containing a single seed.
Light Requirements
Memecylon walikalense A.& R.Fern. prefers to grow under partial shade or filtered light. Direct exposure to intense sunlight can damage the plant.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species thrives in warm temperatures between 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F). It is not frost-tolerant and cannot survive in temperatures below 10°C (50°F).
Soil Requirements
The growth of Memecylon walikalense A.& R.Fern. is best in well-draining soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter. It prefers soil that is slightly acidic with pH levels between 5.5 and 6.5.
Additionally, the plant requires adequate soil moisture, but overwatering can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Method for Memecylon walikalense A.& R.Fern.
Memecylon walikalense A.& R.Fern. requires well-drained soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 6.5. It thrives in a partially shaded environment, but with good air circulation. The plant is native to a tropical climate, therefore it grows best in temperatures ranging from 26°C to 30°C.
The plant can be propagated through cuttings or by planting seeds. It is important to note that the seeds need to be removed from the fruit before planting. Once the seeds are planted, the soil should be kept moist to ensure proper germination.
Watering Needs
Memecylon walikalense A.& R.Fern. requires moderate watering, depending on the weather conditions. Water the plant thoroughly, but don't let it sit in water. The soil should be moist to the touch, but not waterlogged. In the dry season, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Fertilize Memecylon walikalense A.& R.Fern. with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, from spring to early summer. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant period. Follow package instructions for application rates.
Pruning
Prune Memecylon walikalense A.& R.Fern. during the dormant period, which is usually from late fall to early spring. Prune the plant to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Also, prune to encourage bushier growth and to maintain the desired shape of the plant.
When pruning, use clean, sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant. Disinfect the tools before using them to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Memecylon walikalense
Memecylon walikalense is propagated through seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation through Seeds
Seeds of Memecylon walikalense are sown in well-drained soil, and they require regular watering. Germination occurs within 2-4 weeks. The seedlings are transferred to individual pots when they reach a height of 2-3 inches. These seedlings are then grown in well-drained soil mixed with compost or organic matter.
Propagation through Cuttings
Memecylon walikalense cuttings are taken from stems that are 5-10cm long and are treated with rooting hormones. They are then planted in a well-drained rooting medium consisting of a mixture of sand and peat moss. The cuttings are kept in a humid environment until they exhibit new growth. After several days, the cutting is slowly acclimatized to normal conditions by gradually reducing humidity.
Propagation through Air Layering
Air layering of Memecylon walikalense is done by selecting a healthy and mature branch. A small section of the branch's bark is removed, creating a wound about 2-3 cm long. A moist rooting medium, like sphagnum moss, is packed around the wound and covered with a plastic material to retain moisture. Roots will form at the wound, and the branch is then cut from the mother plant and planted in a well-drained medium containing compost or organic matter.
Disease and Pest Management for Memecylon Walikalense
Memecylon walikalense is a tropical plant species that belongs to the Melastomataceae family. The plant is characterized by its small size, with heights ranging from 0.5 to 2 meters. It is endemic to the Western Ghats, India, and occurs in the understory of evergreen forests. The plant is known to be susceptible to various pests and diseases, which can affect its growth and productivity.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect Memecylon walikalense is fungal leaf spot, also known as Cercospora leaf spot. This disease is characterized by the presence of small, circular spots on the leaves, which gradually turn yellow or brown. The spots can coalesce, leading to severe leaf damage. To manage this disease, it is essential to prune affected leaves and remove them from the plant area. Additionally, applying fungicides such as copper oxychloride or carbendazim can also be useful.
Another disease that can affect the plant is root rot, caused by the fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi. This disease is characterized by the yellowing and wilting of leaves, stunted growth, and root decay. To manage this disease, it is essential to avoid overwatering the plant and maintain proper drainage. Application of fungicides such as propiconazole and copper oxychloride can also be helpful.
Common Pests
The most common pest that affects Memecylon walikalense is the leaf-cutting ant, Atta sp. These ants cut small pieces of leaves, which can weaken the plant and reduce its growth. To manage this pest, it is essential to remove any nearby ant colonies and use insecticides such as deltamethrin or imidacloprid. Additionally, providing a physical barrier such as a sticky band around the stem can also be helpful.
Another pest that can attack the plant is the mealybug, Planococcus sp. These insects suck plant sap, leading to stunted growth, leaf yellowing, and eventual dieback. To manage this pest, it is essential to prune affected parts of the plant and remove any nearby weeds, which can serve as alternate hosts. Additionally, application of insecticides such as neem oil or imidacloprid can also be effective.
Overall, managing diseases and pests is essential for producing healthy and productive Memecylon walikalense plants. By following the above strategies, growers can reduce the impact of these challenges and ensure optimal plant growth.
