Overview of Pithecellobium eriorhachis (Harms) Harms
Pithecellobium eriorhachis (Harms) Harms is a plant species that belongs to the family Fabaceae. It is commonly known as 'Mandioqueira' in Brazil.
Origin of Pithecellobium eriorhachis (Harms) Harms
This species is native to Brazil and is commonly found in the Atlantic Forest biome, which extends along the eastern coast of Brazil. It is also known to occur in the cerrado, a vast tropical savanna ecoregion in Brazil.
Appearance of Pithecellobium eriorhachis (Harms) Harms
Pithecellobium eriorhachis (Harms) Harms is a tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height. It has a narrow crown and a straight trunk with a diameter of up to 40 centimeters. The bark of the tree is light brown and rough. The leaves are alternate and bipinnate, and measure about 20 centimeters in length. The inflorescence is a panicle of small, white flowers.
Uses of Pithecellobium eriorhachis (Harms) Harms
The wood of Pithecellobium eriorhachis (Harms) Harms is highly valued for its strength and durability. It is commonly used for making furniture, construction, and for fuel. The tree is also used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as coughs and bronchitis. Additionally, the bark of the tree is used to make tannins for the leather industry. The tree is also used in reforestation efforts due to its resilience and fast growth rate.
Light Requirements
Pithecellobium eriorhachis requires full sun exposure to thrive and grow to its full potential. The plant cannot tolerate shady areas or partial sun exposure. Therefore, it is advisable to plant the species in an open space where it can receive sufficient sunlight.
Temperature Conditions
The plant prefers warm climatic conditions, and the temperature range should be between 20-35°C. Pithecellobium eriorhachis cannot tolerate extreme cold and frost. Therefore, it is crucial to protect the plant from extreme weather conditions.
Soil Requirements
Pithecellobium eriorhachis grows best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil pH, but the ideal range is between 5.5 and 7.5. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged. The plant cannot tolerate dry soil conditions and requires regular watering during dry spells.
Cultivation Methods
Pithecellobium eriorhachis is a perennial tree that thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. The plant prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 6 to 7.5. It also requires bright sunlight to grow optimally. To cultivate the plant, start by preparing a well-drained planting site. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the plant's root ball and fill it with rich, organic soil. Plant the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, creating a slight mound around the base to allow for drainage.
Watering Needs
The plant requires regular watering, especially during long periods of drought. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering frequency during the dormant period. Ensure that the soil does not dry out completely between watering, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every three months during the growing season to promote healthy growth and development. The fertilizer should contain essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the ratio of 10:10:10 or 20:20:20. Avoid over-fertilization, which can cause root burn and damage.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the plant's shape, promote growth, and remove damaged or diseased branches. Prune Pithecellobium eriorhachis during the dormant season to minimize stress on the tree. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts and avoid tearing the bark. Dispose of the pruned material properly to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Pithecellobium eriorhachis (Harms) Harms
Pithecellobium eriorhachis (Harms) Harms, also known as "Bois de Petite Flamme" or "Little Torchwood," is a tree species commonly found in tropical regions in Africa. The species can be propagated through various methods including seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
The most common method of propagating Pithecellobium eriorhachis (Harms) Harms is through seeds. The seeds can be extracted from the pods of the mature trees and should be planted as soon as possible. The seeds need to be soaked in warm water for 24 hours before planting. Plant the seeds 2-3 cm deep in soil in a plant pot. Keep the soil constantly moist, but not waterlogged. The seeds will germinate within two weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings can also be successful with Pithecellobium eriorhachis (Harms) Harms. Take cuttings of 10-15 cm length from the mature trees during the dormant season. Remove any leaves from the bottom part of the stem and plant the cutting in a pot with moist soil. Place the pot in shade and cover it with a plastic bag to keep the moisture in. The root will start growing within 1-2 months.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting can also be used to propagate Pithecellobium eriorhachis (Harms) Harms. The grafting method involves attaching a live branch of a mature tree (scion) onto a seedling of the same species. Choose a healthy seedling and make a cut at the stem of the seedling. Then, make a slanted cut on the scion and attach it to the cut of the seedling. Use grafting tape to hold the two pieces together and cover the grafting site with a plastic bag. The grafted seedling should be kept in a shaded area and should be monitored regularly.
Disease Management
While Pithecellobium eriorhachis is a hardy plant, it can be vulnerable to some diseases, especially fungal infections. The most common fungal disease that affects the plant is Anthracnose, which causes brown or black spots on the leaves. It can also lead to leaf drop and defoliation. Ensuring that the plant has good air circulation, watering in the morning, and removing any infected leaves can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Another fungal disease that can affect Pithecellobium eriorhachis is Powdery Mildew, which appears as white powdery patches on the leaves. This can be managed by pruning any infected leaves, ensuring there is good air circulation around the plant, and avoiding overhead watering.
Pest Management
Mealybugs and scale insects are two of the most common pests that affect Pithecellobium eriorhachis. Mealybugs can be identified by their white waxy coating and can cause leaf wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. Scale insects, on the other hand, have a protective shell that can make them difficult to spot. They can cause leaf yellowing and wilting as well.
To manage these pests, using insecticidal soap or neem oil can be effective. Additionally, regularly inspecting the plant and manually removing any visible pests can help prevent further infestations. It is important to always follow the instructions on any insecticides used and avoid overuse or misuse, which can harm the plant and its surroundings.
