Overview of Pala scholaris
Pala scholaris (L.) Roberty, commonly known as the Himalayan mast tree or sacred fig, is a medium to large-sized tree belonging to the Moraceae family. It is native to India, Southeast Asia and China. The tree is widely cultivated in parks and gardens of tropical and subtropical regions for its ornamental value, shade and various medicinal properties.
Appearance of Pala scholaris
The Himalayan mast tree is a deciduous tree that typically grows up to 30 meters in height. The bark of the tree is brownish grey, smooth and thin till it develops into irregular flakes. The leaves are simple, alternate, and ovate with a pointed apex and a tapering base. The leaves are smooth, shiny, and measure 10-18cm long and 6-12cm broad. The tree bears fruits that appear as small figs, of around 1.5cm in diameter, called "Syconia". The fruits are purplish-brown and contain many seeds.
Uses of Pala scholaris
The Pala scholaris tree has numerous uses, ranging from medicinal to cultural and religious. The leaves of Pala scholaris contain bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, tannins and saponins which possess anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. Additionally, the bark, fruits and seeds have been traditionally used in various Ayurvedic and Chinese medicines.
The tree holds immense religious value as it is considered sacred, especially by Hindus and Buddhists. It is often planted in temples and near holy sites. The tree's shade is appreciated and preferred for social gatherings, weddings and other events in its native regions. The tree's wood is used in general-purpose construction and in making agricultural tools.
Overall, the Pala scholaris is a valuable and versatile tree due to its beauty, medicinal properties, religious significance, and cultural importance.
Light Requirements
Pala scholaris (L.) Roberty, commonly known as the Indian Mast Tree, prefers bright sunlight for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade but grows its best in full sun exposure. Placing it in a location where it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight is ideal.
Temperature Requirements
The Indian Mast Tree grows well in a tropical region where temperatures remain warm throughout the year. It can tolerate temperature fluctuations ranging from 15°C to 45°C. However, the ideal temperature range for its growth and development is between 20°C to 35°C. Temperatures below 15°C can hamper its growth, and temperatures above 45°C can cause harm.
Soil Requirements
Pala scholaris thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in nutrients. It can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, the preferred soil type for its growth is sandy loam soil. Adding compost, manure, or other organic matter to the soil before planting can help improve its fertility, drainage, and water-holding capacity. The soil pH preferable for the Indian Mast Tree’s growth is slightly acidic to neutral, ranging from 5.5 to 7.5.
Cultivation
Pala scholaris is commonly grown from seed or by vegetative propagation such as cuttings or air-layering. The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6 to 7 and requires full sunlight to partial shade. It can be grown in pots or directly in the ground.
Watering
Pala scholaris requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, but does not tolerate waterlogged soil. It is important to allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering to prevent root rot. Deep watering once a week should be sufficient to maintain the plant's health.
Fertilization
Organic fertilizers such as compost or well-rotted manure can be applied to Pala scholaris every three months to improve soil fertility. Adding a slow-release fertilizer during planting or growing season can also benefit the growth and development of the plant.
Pruning
Pala scholaris can be pruned to maintain its shape and size or to remove any dead or damaged branches. Pruning can be done throughout the year, but the best time to prune is during the dormant season. It is important to disinfect pruning tools before and after pruning to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Pala Scholaris
Pala Scholaris (L.) Roberty, commonly known as the Indian Mast Tree or the Blackboard tree, is a popular ornamental plant known for its shade-giving canopy and attractive foliage. Propagation of Pala Scholaris can be carried out by following several methods.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Pala Scholaris can be achieved through seeds. Seeds are usually collected in the months of December-January. Sow the seeds in well-drained soil mixed with sand in raised beds. Germination will take place within 10-15 days. Seed propagation is a cost-effective method of propagation of Pala Scholaris.
Vegetative Propagation
Pala Scholaris can be propagated vegetatively through stem cuttings, air layering, and grafting. Stem cuttings 6-8 inch long should be taken from the current season growth in the months of February-March and planted in well-prepared soil beds. Keeping the soil moist and maintaining a high humidity around the plants can increase the success rate. Air layering can be carried out in April-May. The branches should be girdled and rooting hormones should be applied on the wound. After a few weeks, roots would have formed, and the branches can be separated from the mother plant and planted in well-prepared soil. Grafting is also a popular method. Pala Scholaris can be grafted onto suitable rootstock of the same species or related species.
Culture propagation
Culture propagation is another method of propagation of Pala Scholaris that uses plant tissue culture techniques. This method involves taking explants from the shoot tips, axillary buds or young leaves of the mother plant. The explants are sterilized and placed in a culture medium and induce rooting. Once the roots have formed, the plants can be transferred to suitable soil under controlled conditions.
Propagation of Pala Scholaris can lead to the quick production of quality planting material. Selecting the right propagation method as per the requirement is important for a successful nursery.
Disease Management
Pala scholaris is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to diseases. However, there are a few diseases that can affect the plant, including:
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the Pala scholaris plant. It is characterized by small, circular brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, you can remove the infected leaves and destroy them. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide.
Root Rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the Pala scholaris plant. It is caused by overwatering or poor drainage. To manage this disease, you should avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil has good drainage. You can also treat the plant with a fungicide.
Pest Management
Although Pala scholaris is resilient, there are a few pests that can attack the plant. These include:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves of the Pala scholaris plant. To manage this pest, you can wash them off the plant with a strong stream of water. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, waxy insects that feed on the sap of the Pala scholaris plant. To manage this pest, you can remove them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are small, reddish-brown pests that feed on the leaves of the Pala scholaris plant. They are difficult to see with the naked eye. To manage this pest, you can wash them off the plant with a strong stream of water. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
