Overview of Ochna calodendron Gilg & Mildbr.
Ochna calodendron Gilg & Mildbr. is commonly known as the 'peeling-bark ochna' and belongs to the Ochnaceae family. This plant is native to Madagascar, where it is commonly found in the dry deciduous forests.
General Appearance of Ochna calodendron Gilg & Mildbr.
Ochna calodendron Gilg & Mildbr. is a deciduous shrub, which can grow up to a height of 4 meters. The leaves of this plant are dark green and are about 4cm long. The bark of the plant is smooth, brown, and peels off in strips. During the rainy season, the plant produces small yellow flowers, which are followed by small fruit.
Uses of Ochna calodendron Gilg & Mildbr.
Ochna calodendron Gilg & Mildbr. is primarily grown for its ornamental value. The plant is grown in gardens and parks for its attractive peeling bark and beautiful bright yellow flowers. Additionally, its fruit is consumed locally in Madagascar as food by certain communities.
Traditional medicine practitioners in Madagascar use the plant's leaves and stem bark to treat various ailments such as skin infections, malaria, and diarrhea. Research has shown that some of the compounds present in this plant have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties.
Light Requirements
Ochna calodendron requires full sun to partial shade. It grows well in areas with bright, indirect light. Avoid placing it in areas with intense, direct sunlight, which can burn its leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures between 18-30°C (65-85°F). When kept indoors, it grows best in temperatures above 15°C (59°F). Temperatures below 12°C (54°F) can harm the plant and cause leaf drop.
Soil Requirements
Ochna calodendron thrives in well-draining, acidic soil with a pH between 5.5-6.5. It prefers soil rich in organic matter and should be planted in a pot with drainage holes to avoid waterlogging. The soil should be kept moist but not overly wet, as this can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Ochna calodendron Gilg & Mildbr, commonly known as the small-leaved plane, is a small shrub that is native to Africa. It is relatively easy to cultivate and can do well in a variety of soil types. The plant requires well-drained soil, and the pH should be slightly acidic to neutral. O. calodendron can tolerate full sun to partial shade and is drought-resistant once established. It is important to choose a location that receives at least 5 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Watering Needs
While O. calodendron is drought-resistant, it still requires adequate watering to perform well. Young and newly planted plants require regular watering to help them establish their root systems. During the growing season, give the plant a deep watering at least once every two weeks. However, if the weather is exceptionally warm and dry, increase watering to at least once a week. Once the plant is established, it can go longer between watering.
Fertilization
O. calodendron doesn’t require heavy fertilization, but it benefits from a slow-release fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in the early spring and summer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid applying fertilizer in the fall or winter during the dormancy period. Over-fertilizing the plant can lead to excessive growth and poor overall health.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for O. calodendron, but it can help shape the plant and maintain its size. The best time to prune is in the late winter or early spring before the new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged wood and shape as desired. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can reduce the plant's overall health and vigor.
Propagation of Ochna calodendron Gilg & Mildbr.
Ochna calodendron Gilg & Mildbr. also known as ‘Lucky Berry’ is a small tree that produces beautiful yellow colored flowers and black fruit. Apart from the ornamental value, the plant also offers medicinal properties. It is a great plant to grow indoors or in the garden as its propagation methods are relatively easy to follow.
Propagation Methods:
1. From seeds: The easiest and the most common method of propagation is by seed. Collect fresh seeds from berries and soak them in warm water for 24 hours to help soften the seed coat. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and cover them lightly with soil. Keep the pot in a warm and bright location and mist the soil occasionally to keep it moist. Germination usually takes around 1-2 months.
2. From cuttings: Cuttings from the plant can also be used for propagation. Take a 6-8 inch long cutting from the young stem of the plant during spring or summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the end in a rooting hormone to promote root growth. Insert the cutting about 1-2 inches deep in a well-draining potting mix and cover it with a plastic sheet to retain moisture. Place the pot in a bright location but out of direct sunlight. Roots should develop within 2-3 weeks.
3. Air layering: Another possible propagation method is air layering. Make a small cut about 1/3rd into a young stem, wrap a moist sphagnum moss around the cut area, wrap it with plastic film and secure it with a tape. Keep the moss moist and within 2-3 months, roots should emerge from the cut. Remove it from the parent plant and plant it in a well-draining potting mix.
Once your Ochna calodendron Gilg & Mildbr. has been propagated successfully, be patient during the growth stages. The plant grows slowly but with proper care will eventually bloom and bear fruits.
Disease and Pest Management for Ochna calodendron Gilg & Mildbr.
Ochna calodendron Gilg & Mildbr. is a perennial plant species that is native to Africa. It is often grown as an ornamental plant due to its beautiful, bright-yellow flowers. However, like all plants, Ochna calodendron is prone to a variety of diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, along with ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects many plants, including Ochna calodendron. It appears as small, circular spots on the leaves, which eventually turn brown and may drop off the plant. To manage leaf spot, remove and dispose of any infected leaves and avoid getting water on the leaves when watering. You can also apply a fungicide to help control the disease.
2. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is another fungal disease that affects many plants, including Ochna calodendron. It appears as a white, powdery substance on the leaves and stems, which can eventually stunt the plant’s growth. To manage powdery mildew, remove and dispose of any infected leaves and avoid overcrowding the plants. You can also apply a fungicide to help control the disease.
3. Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of plants, including Ochna calodendron. It can be caused by overwatering or poor soil drainage, which leads to saturated soil conditions. Symptoms of root rot include withered leaves, stunted growth, and a general decline in the health of the plant. To manage root rot, reduce watering and ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil. You can also apply a fungicide to help control the disease.
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants, including Ochna calodendron. They can cause the leaves to curl, distort, and yellow, which can eventually weaken the plant. To manage aphids, you can use natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings, or you can spray the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny, sap-sucking pests that can be a problem for Ochna calodendron. They often appear as tiny, red or brown spots on the leaves and can cause the leaves to yellow and drop off. To manage spider mites, you can use natural predators like ladybugs or use a miticide to help control the infestation.
3. Scale Insects: Scale insects are small, sap-sucking pests that can attach themselves to the leaves and stems of Ochna calodendron. They often appear as small, brown, or white bumps on the plant. Scale insects can cause the leaves to yellow and drop off, which can eventually weaken the plant. To manage scale insects, you can use natural predators like ladybugs or spray the plants with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By being proactive in disease and pest management for Ochna calodendron, you can help ensure that your plant remains healthy and vibrant throughout the growing season.
