Origin and Common Names
Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff, also known as the tangarahu, is a plant species endemic to New Zealand. The tangarahu is native to the North Island of New Zealand, where it can be found in various parts of the island, including Northland, Auckland, and Coromandel Peninsula. It grows naturally in lowland to montane forests.
Uses
The tangarahu has many uses in traditional M?ori medicine. The leaves of the plant are used in poultices to treat boils and skin infections. In addition, the tangarahu is a valuable source of firewood for M?ori communities. The wood is strong and durable and burns well.
General Appearance
The tangarahu is a small to medium-sized tree, reaching heights of up to 15 meters. It has a dense, rounded crown with glossy dark green leaves, which are oblong and up to 10 cm long. The tangarahu also produces small, fragrant flowers in the spring, which are followed by small, rounded fruits that contain black seeds. The bark of the tangarahu is smooth and grayish-brown in color.
Light requirements
Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff performs best in full sun to part shade. The plant can tolerate shaded conditions, but it may result in slower growth and less dense foliage.
Temperature requirements
The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 15 to 30 degree Celsius. The plant can tolerate both colder and warmer temperatures, but it may result in stunted growth, leaf damage, or even death.
Soil requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, but it can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including loam, sandy soil, and clay soil. It can also grow in slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil with a pH range from 6.0 to 7.5.
Good soil moisture is crucial for the initial establishment of the plant, but it is important not to overwater it, as it can lead to root rot. Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Cultivation of Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff
Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff can be grown in different soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils. However, for optimal growth, the plant requires well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging of the roots. The plant also thrives in areas with full sunlight exposure.
Watering Needs
Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff has a moderate water requirement. Watering should be done when the soil begins to dry out. Overwatering should be avoided, as this may cause root rot. Proper drainage is, therefore, important to prevent soil waterlogging.
Fertilization
This plant can benefit from regular fertilization with slow-release fertilizers or organic compost. Fertilization should be done during the active growing period, which is usually in the spring and summer. However, excessive fertilization should be avoided to prevent the accumulation of soluble salts that can damage the roots of the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is essential in maintaining the desired shape and size of the Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff plant. It should be done annually, preferably during early spring. Pruning should involve removing dead or diseased branches and twigs and shaping the plant to the desired form. Pruning should be done using clean pruning tools to prevent transmission of diseases from one plant to another.
Propagation of Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff
Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff is a plant that belongs to the Pittosporum genus. This plant can be propagated by various methods.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagation for Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff is through seed propagation. The seeds are collected from the plant's fruit capsules or pods. After the fruit pods are mature, they split open, and the seeds can be collected from within. Once collected, seeds should be washed to remove any fruit residue and then dried for 1 to 2 days.
The dried seeds can be planted in a seedling tray and covered with a thin layer of potting mix. The seed tray should be placed in a warm, bright location, but not in direct sunlight. The seeds usually take a few weeks to germinate, after which they can be transplanted into individual pots or into the ground.
Cutting Propagation
Another method of propagation for Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff is through cutting propagation. This method involves taking a stem cutting from the plant and rooting it to produce a new plant. The best time to take stem cuttings is during the plant's active growing season.
To propagate through cutting, select a stem that is healthy, young, and about 10 to 12 cm long. Cut the stem with a sharp, sterile knife just below a node, which is where the leaves are attached. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, leaving only a few leaves at the top. Dip the cutting into rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with a potting mix designed for rooting. The pot should be kept in a warm location with bright, indirect light. Water the cutting regularly until it grows roots, which usually takes 3 to 4 weeks. After roots have developed, the new plant can be transplanted into a larger pot or into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff
Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff, commonly known as 'Gumbi Gumbi', is a popular native plant in Australia used for medicinal purposes. The shrub has a dense canopy and a hardy nature, making it a popular choice for ornamental landscaping as well. However, it is also susceptible to various pests and diseases. It is essential to manage these issues to keep the plant healthy and thriving. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Phytophthora root rot: Phytophthora root rot is a fungal disease that attacks the roots of the plant, causing them to rot. The plant may suffer from stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and eventually die. To manage this disease, avoid overwatering the plant, ensure good drainage, and apply a fungicide to the soil.
Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, monitor the plant regularly for signs of infection and remove infected leaves as they appear. Also, avoid overhead watering and apply a fungicide to the foliage.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck the sap from the plant. They cause the leaves to curl and wilt and can also transmit viruses. To manage these pests, remove them manually by washing the plant with a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small insects that attach themselves to the plant and suck the sap. They also secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants. To manage these pests, remove them manually using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of butterflies and moths that chew on the leaves of the plant. They can cause significant damage to the plant if left unchecked. To manage these pests, manually remove them or apply a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis.
By monitoring the plant regularly, maintaining good cultural practices, and taking prompt action to manage pests and diseases, you can keep your Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. degeneri Sherff healthy and thriving.
