Origin
The Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC.) Backer ex K. Heyne, commonly known as the Copperpod or Yellow Flame Tree, is a species of tropical tree that is native to Southeast Asia and Northern Australia. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is commonly found in countries such as India, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Common Names
The Peltophorum pterocarpum is commonly called by different names in different regions. In India, it is popularly known as the ‘Copperpod’, while in Indonesia, it is known as ‘Taman Kencana’. In the Philippines, it is called ‘Sala’ or ‘Dila-dila’, and in Thailand, it is referred to as ‘Rak. Phrao’.
Uses
The Peltophorum pterocarpum has numerous uses to humans and the environment. The tree is widely cultivated as an ornamental and shade tree in public parks, gardens, and along roadsides. Its wood is typically used for making furniture and construction purposes. The tree is also known for its medicinal properties, as its leaves and bark are rich in flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that have analgesic and hepatoprotective properties.
General Appearance
The Peltophorum pterocarpum is a large, deciduous tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall and has a trunk diameter of about 1 meter. The tree has a wide-spreading crown that is symmetrical and dome-shaped. Its leaves are compound, with 6-9 pairs of leaflets that are oval-shaped and bright green in color. The tree produces large clusters of bright yellow flowers during the summer months, which are followed by elongated pods that contain the seeds. The tree's bark is greyish-brown and has horizontal, elongated ridges with deep furrows.
In summary, Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC.) Backer ex K. Heyne is a tropical tree species that is native to Southeast Asia and Northern Australia, commonly known as the Copperpod or Yellow Flame Tree. The tree has ornamental, shade, medicinal, and wood production values and is a large, deciduous tree with bright green compound leaves, a symmetrical and dome-shaped crown, bright yellow flowers, and greyish-brown furrowed bark.Growth Conditions for Peltophorum pterocarpum
Peltophorum pterocarpum, also known as copperpod, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia and parts of Africa. It is favored for ornamental purposes due to its beautiful yellow flowers and dense foliage.
Light Requirements
Peltophorum pterocarpum prefers full sun and requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and flower properly. The tree can tolerate some shade but may not produce as many blooms in shaded areas.
Temperature Requirements
The optimum temperature range for Peltophorum pterocarpum growth is between 20°C and 35°C. The tree can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°C and as high as 40°C for short periods but extended exposure to extreme temperatures may cause damage to the tree.
Soil Requirements
Peltophorum pterocarpum grows best in well-drained soils that are rich in nutrients. The ideal soil pH range is between 6.0 and 7.5. The tree can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-drained.
During the early growth stages, it is important to ensure the soil is kept moist and well-watered. Once the tree is established, it can tolerate periods of drought.
Cultivation
Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC.) Backer ex K. Heyne is a tropical tree that grows best in warm and humid conditions. It prefers well-draining soil with a pH level of 5.0 to 7.5. The plant requires full sun exposure to grow and develop properly. It can withstand partial shade but may not flower as much.
Watering Needs
The plant requires frequent watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and drop. Deep watering is necessary to encourage the roots to grow deep into the soil.
Fertilization
Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC.) Backer ex K. Heyne requires regular fertilization to thrive. A slow-release fertilizer with a balanced formula of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied during the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall. Over-feeding can lead to excessive foliage growth with fewer flowers.
Pruning
Regular pruning helps to keep the tree in shape and promotes healthy growth. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, which is typically during winter. Dead or damaged branches, as well as those that cross each other, should be removed. The tree can also be pruned to maintain its size and shape. The cut should be clean and made at an angle slightly above the bud.
Propagation of Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC.) Backer ex K. Heyne
Peltophorum pterocarpum, also known as the Copperpod or Yellow Flamboyant, is a popular ornamental tree due to its vibrant yellow flowers and tropical appearance. There are several methods of propagating Peltophorum pterocarpum:
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Peltophorum pterocarpum is through seeds. Collect seeds from mature pods and sow them into well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds and moisten the soil. Germination will take around 10-15 days. Once seedlings have produced their second or third set of leaves, they can be transplanted into individual containers.
Cutting Propagation
Peltophorum pterocarpum can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Take 6-8 inch cuttings from healthy branches with a clean, sharp pair of pruning shears. Remove any leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the cutting and dip it into rooting hormone. Plant the cutting into well-draining soil mix, water it thoroughly, and cover it with a plastic bag to retain moisture. The cutting will take around 2-3 months to establish roots.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting is another method of propagating Peltophorum pterocarpum. Select a healthy rootstock and make a slanted cut across it. Take a 3-5 inch scion from a mature tree and make a matching cut on it. Gently fit the scion onto the rootstock and secure it with grafting tape. Keep the plant in a humid environment until the graft has established. This method is generally used by experienced gardeners.
Disease and Pest Management for Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC.) Backer ex K. Heyne
Peltophorum pterocarpum, commonly known as copperpod or golden shower, is a popular ornamental tree that is mostly grown for its beautiful yellow flowers. However, like any other plant, it is also prone to pest and disease attacks. Proper disease and pest management practices are therefore necessary to keep the tree healthy and thriving.
Common Pests
Aphids: Aphids are tiny sap-sucking insects that can cause leaves to turn yellow and distorted. They are usually found on young shoots and the undersides of leaves. Control aphid infestation by spraying the leaves with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. Alternatively, use insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils to reduce their population.
Mites: Mites are also sap-sucking pests that cause leaves to turn yellow and develop a mottled appearance. They thrive in hot and dry weather conditions. Spray the affected leaves with insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils to get rid of them.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies. They feed on the leaves and can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Handpick the caterpillars from the tree or spray the leaves with Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a natural bacterial pesticide that kills caterpillars.
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular, brown colored spots on leaves. It is usually caused by wet and humid weather conditions. Remove infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Spray the tree with a fungicide such as copper sulfate or neem oil to prevent further outbreaks.
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a powdery white coating on the leaves. It is usually caused by warm and dry weather conditions. Remove infected leaves and ensure adequate air circulation around the tree. Spray the tree with a fungicide such as neem oil or potassium bicarbonate to prevent further outbreaks.
Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot and eventually die. It is mostly caused by watering the tree excessively and poor soil drainage. Avoid overwatering the tree and ensure proper drainage. Fungicides such as copper sulfate or potassium phosphonate can help control the spread of the disease.
In conclusion, proper pest and disease management practices are essential to maintain the overall health and growth of Peltophorum pterocarpum. Regular monitoring and early intervention can prevent significant damage to the tree.
