Overview
Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn. is a tree species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is native to India and is also commonly found in Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Indian little pod tree, Indian fever nut, or Indian kino tree.
Uses
The tree is widely used for its medicinal properties. Its bark is used to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and other gastrointestinal problems. The leaves and pods of the plant are used as a fever-reducing agent. Additionally, the bark of the tree contains tannins which are useful in the production of leather and dyes. The tree is also used for its hard, durable wood which is used in making furniture and other woodworking applications.
Appearance
Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn. is a deciduous tree that grows up to a height of 25 meters and a trunk diameter of up to 90 cm. Its bark is dark brown, rough, and furrowed. The leaves are compound and pinnate, with 4-8 leaflets that are oblong to oval in shape. The flowers are yellowish-white, and the fruit is a long, flat pod that can be up to 70 cm long and 8 cm wide. The seeds within the pod are surrounded by a sweet, white pulp that is often eaten as a vegetable.
Growth conditions for Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn.
Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn. is a tropical plant species that is primarily found in the southern part of India. The tree is characterized by a straight trunk, a wide canopy, and large bean pods that contain edible seeds. The plant requires specific growth conditions to perform well, and the following are some of the essential elements to consider.
Light requirements
The plant requires full sunlight exposure to perform well. It should be planted in areas with minimal shade to maximize its growth potential. Direct sunlight exposure should be at least six hours per day. Limited sunshine exposure may result in stunted growth, poor yield, and susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Temperature requirements
Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn. thrives well in warm tropical climates with temperatures ranging between 25-35 degrees Celsius. The plant cannot withstand extreme temperatures, and it may experience slow growth or exhibit signs of stress when exposed to low or high temperatures.
Soil requirements
The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter. Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn. performs better in loamy soil that is rich in nutrients. The soil pH range should be neutral, between 6.0 and 7.5, but can tolerate slightly acidic soils with a pH of at most 6.5. Additionally, the plant is capable of growing in rocky or sandy soil types and marginal soil conditions if provided with enough nutrients and adequate water.
Cultivation Methods
Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn. is commonly known as White Khejur. It is a tropical tree that grows in India, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. The tree can grow up to 30 meters high, and it has a spreading and dense crown. The tree prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight. It can also tolerate partial shade.
The best time to plant Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn. is during the monsoon season when there is plenty of rain. The seeds should be sown at a depth of 2-3 cm, and the plants should be spaced at least 10 meters apart to allow for proper growth and development.
Watering Needs
Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn. requires regular watering, especially during the early stages of growth. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged, as excess water can lead to root rot and other diseases. During the dry season, the tree may need additional watering to maintain healthy growth.
Fertilization
The tree requires regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and yield. Organic fertilizers such as compost and manure can be used, or chemical fertilizers such as NPK can be applied. The fertilizer should be applied at the base of the tree in a circular manner, and watered well afterwards to allow for proper absorption.
Pruning
Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn. requires pruning to remove any dead or diseased branches, and to promote healthy growth. The best time to prune the tree is during the dry season, when the tree is dormant. During pruning, it is important to use sharp and clean tools to prevent the spread of diseases. Proper care should be taken to prevent damage to the trunk and major branches.
Propagation of Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn.
Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn. is a leguminous tree that can be propagated by various methods. The tree is slow-growing but long-lived, making it an excellent choice for reforestation and agroforestry projects.
Seeds propagation method
Seeds are the most common method of propagating P. biglandulosa. Mature pods are harvested during the dry season when they start to turn brown, indicating that the seeds are mature. The seeds are extracted from the pods and are sown in seedbeds or germination trays filled with a well-draining soil mix. The seeds germinate within two to three weeks, and the seedlings are ready for transplantation into the field after six to eight months.
Cuttings propagation method
Cuttings are another method of propagating P. biglandulosa. Stem cuttings of approximately 20 cm in length, with two to three nodes, are taken from mature trees during the dormant season. The cuttings are dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a rooting medium such as sand or a mixture of sand and peat moss. The cuttings take root within six to eight weeks and are ready for transplanting after three to four months.
Root suckers propagation method
P. biglandulosa can be propagated through root suckers, which are shoots that grow from the roots of mature trees. Root suckers are taken during the dormant season and are transplanted directly into the field. This method is typically used for vegetative propagation and can lead to uniform plantations with desirable traits.
Disease and Pest Management of Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn.
Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Arn. is a tropical tree that belongs to the Fabaceae family and is commonly known as Indian Beech or Peacock Flower Fence. It is an important timber and medicinal plant. However, like all plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can have detrimental effects on its growth and productivity. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Leaf Spot Disease: The leaf spot disease is caused by fungi and affects the leaves of the Parkia biglandulosa tree. It causes brown spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and fall off. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove all infected leaves and destroy them. Fungicides such as copper-based sprays can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
2. Root Rot: Root rot is caused by a variety of fungi, and it affects the roots of the tree. It causes the roots to rot, which results in the wilting and eventual death of the tree. To prevent this disease, it is essential to avoid waterlogging and well-draining soil is necessary. Fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the disease.
Common Pests
1. Scales: Scales are small insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the tree. They feed on the plant's sap, which can cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop off. Scales can be managed by pruning off and destroying the infested areas. Insecticides containing pyrethrin can also be used to control the scales.
2. Caterpillars: Caterpillars are common pests that feed on the leaves of the tree. They can cause significant damage to the plant if left uncontrolled. Handpicking and destroying the caterpillars is an effective method to control their population. Insecticides containing Bacillus thuringiensis can also be used to control the caterpillars.
3. Beetles: Beetles are also common pests found on the Parkia biglandulosa tree. They feed on the leaves and cause the leaves to become skeletonized. Insecticides containing neem oil or pyrethrin can be used to control beetle infestations.
Regular monitoring of the plant and immediate action upon the detection of any disease or pest infestation can help to minimize the damage caused to the Parkia biglandulosa tree. Implementing these disease and pest management strategies can ensure a healthy and productive tree.
