Origin:
Microcos floribunda (Mast.) Burret, commonly known as "Réséda bord de mer" or "Sea bordo" is a plant native to the Atlantic coast of West Africa, mainly from Senegal to Cameroon. It belongs to the family Flacourtiaceae.
Common Names:
The common names of Microcos floribunda (Mast.) Burret include "Sea bordo," "Réséda bord de mer," "Firmin," "Ajangba," "Tarar," and "Nwene nzar."
Uses:
The plant has several medicinal uses in traditional African medicine. The bark is used as a decoction to treat malaria, diarrhea, fever, and stomach disorders. The leaves are used as a local anesthetic and are applied to cuts, sores, and bruises. The extract of the bark has shown antibacterial activity against several pathogenic bacteria. The plant is also used as a green manure and cover crop.
General Appearance:
Microcos floribunda (Mast.) Burret is an evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 15 meters tall. It has a small, dense, and rounded crown with a diameter of up to 10 meters. The bark is dark brown, rough, and fissured. The leaves are ovate to elliptic and measure 7-15 cm long and 3-7 cm wide. The upper surface of the leaves is green and glossy, while the lower surface is pale green and hairy. The flowers are small and greenish-white, with petals measuring 1.5-2 mm long. The fruit is a capsule, 1.5-2 cm long, and contains 1 or 2 seeds.
Light Requirements
Microcos floribunda requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate direct sunlight but needs protection from intense heat in summer. In areas with hot climates, it is best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day. In contrast, insufficient sunlight can lead to reduced flowering and stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
This plant grows best in a temperature range between 20-30°C. It is tolerant of a range of temperatures, but grows best in areas with warm and moderate climates. The plant requires protection from frost, which could damage the leaves and affect its growth.
Soil Requirements
Microcos floribunda grows well in well-draining soil with pH levels between 5.5 and 6.5. It thrives in slightly acidic soils rich in organic matter, with good water-holding capacity. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soils, so adequate drainage is crucial to its growth. It is advisable to improve the soil quality by adding organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure before planting.
Cultivation and Care of Microcos floribunda (Mast.) Burret
Microcos floribunda is a tropical plant species that can be grown indoors or outdoors. In order to cultivate this plant, a few basic care requirements need to be met.
Watering Needs
The watering requirements for Microcos floribunda are moderate to high. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The plant should be watered regularly to prevent drying out.
It is important to ensure that the soil has good drainage to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom of the pot. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid water evaporation.
Fertilization
When fertilizing Microcos floribunda, it is important to use a balanced fertilizer. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during the growing season, which is typically spring and summer, with a water-soluble fertilizer.
Do not fertilize the plant during winter. Overfertilization can damage the roots, reducing the overall health of the plant.
Pruning
Pruning helps the plant grow better. Microcos floribunda can be pruned once or twice a year, depending on the need. Dead or damaged leaves and branches should be pruned immediately to avoid the spread of disease.
To encourage lateral branching, the tips of the branches should also be pruned. Trimming the plant's growing tips will also help control the size and shape of the plant.
Prune during the winter, because the plant enters a dormant phase. Avoid pruning during the growing season, when the plant is actively growing.
Conclusion
With proper care, Microcos floribunda can thrive in both indoor and outdoor settings. Regular watering, balanced fertilization, and pruning are essential to the overall health of the plant. Follow these guidelines to maintain a healthy and attractive Microcos floribunda plant.
Propagation of Microcos Floribunda
The Microcos floribunda (Mast.) Burret, commonly known as the "Brazilian Button Tree," is a beautiful and ornamental plant species that is native to Brazil.
Propagation by Seeds
To propagate this plant through seeds, you will need to collect the seeds from a matured and healthy parent plant after the fruits have fully ripened. Sow your seeds in well-drained soil in a pot placed in a warm location with bright indirect light. The soil should be moist throughout the germination period, which could take 2-4 weeks for the seeds to sprout. Once the plant has developed a few sets of leaves, you may transfer it to a larger container or transplant it outdoors in appropriate growing conditions.
Propagation by Cuttings
The Brazilian Button Tree can also propagate through stem cuttings. Choose a healthy stem from the parent plant and cut it at an angle, ensuring that it has at least two node points on the stem. Remove the lower leaves on the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-drained potting mix and keep it in moist soil in bright indirect light. Once the roots are established, you may transfer the plant to a larger pot or transplant it outdoors in suitable growing conditions.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting is a common propagation method for the Microcos floribunda plant species. The process involves taking a cutting from the parent tree and attaching it to the rootstock of another related plant species. The grafting technique can be beneficial in combining the desirable features of two plants into a single plant. The new plant might display a higher resistance to diseases and environmental conditions.
In conclusion, the Brazilian Button Tree is a visually appealing plant species that can be propagated through several methods, including seeds, cuttings, and grafting. With the right growing conditions, the Microcos floribunda plant species will bloom into an exquisite tree.
Disease Management
One of the most common diseases that affect Microcos floribunda is powdery mildew. It appears as white, powdery spots on the leaves and stems of the plant, and can lead to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to ensure good air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering as it creates a moist environment, which is conducive to fungal growth. Additionally, removing and destroying infected plant parts can help manage the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can affect Microcos floribunda is leaf spot, which appears as brown or black spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid overhead watering and to water the plant at the base. Additionally, removing and destroying infected plant parts can help manage the spread of the disease.
Pest Management
The most common pest that affects Microcos floribunda is spider mites. They are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can cause yellowing of leaves and stunt growth. To manage spider mites, it is important to wash the plant regularly with water to keep the leaves clean and remove any pests. Additionally, insecticidal soap can be used to manage an infestation.
Another pest that can affect Microcos floribunda is aphids. They are small, soft-bodied insects that can form colonies on the leaves and stems, causing stunted growth and curling of leaves. To manage aphids, it is important to wash the plant regularly with water, remove and destroy infected plant parts, and introduce natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings.
