Overview
Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff is a species of evergreen tree native to New Zealand. It belongs to the Pittosporaceae family and is commonly known as black matipo or tawhiwhi.
General Appearance
Black matipo is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 10 meters tall with a trunk diameter of up to 30 centimeters. It has a dense round-shaped canopy and a smooth grey bark that becomes fissured with age. The leaves are glossy and dark green in color, with a narrow elliptic shape and a pointed tip. Its small white flowers appear in late winter and spring and are followed by small, round yellowish-green fruit capsules that contain small black seeds.
Uses
The bark and leaves of black matipo contain a resinous substance, which has been traditionally used in Maori medicine to treat a range of ailments, including wounds, rheumatism, and digestive disorders. The bark has also been used for tanning leather and making dyes. In landscaping, black matipo is often used as an ornamental tree, particularly in small gardens or as a container plant due to its slow growth rate and compact size.
Light Requirements
Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff is a plant that thrives in full sun or partial shade conditions. It should be planted in an area that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day. It is important to note that excessive exposure to direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day may damage the plant.
Temperature Range
The ideal temperature range for Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff is between 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C). The plant can tolerate cooler temperatures but cannot handle frosty conditions. If the temperature drops below 32°F (0°C), there is a high probability of the leaves dying due to cold injury.
Soil Requirements
Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be acidic, ranging from 5.0 to 6.5. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged or compacted soil as this may lead to root rot. Regular fertilizing may be necessary to maintain soil nutrients.
Cultivation Methods
Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff, commonly known as the Karo or Lemonwood, is a popular evergreen plant that grows well in warm climates. It requires well-drained soil with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. Karo plants prefer to grow in indirect sunlight and are sensitive to strong winds and frost. It can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or layering.
Watering Needs
Karo plants require moderate watering in their growing season, and its soil should not be allowed to dry out completely. However, overwatering can cause root rot. It is best to let the soil dry down to a depth of 1 to 1.5 inches between watering. During the winter months, the plant can be watered less frequently.
Fertilization
Karo plants need regular fertilization to thrive. Well-balanced and organic fertilizers are recommended, and they should be applied every six to eight weeks during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to weak growth and disease.
Pruning
Karo plants tend to have a naturally rounded shape, and it is usually not necessary to prune them. However, pruning can be done to control its growth or shape. It is best to prune during the spring season before new growth appears. Only remove around 1/3 of the plant at a time and make use of clean and sharp pruning shears.
Propagation of Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff
Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff is commonly known as the lemonwood tree, which belongs to the family Pittosporaceae. It is an evergreen plant and popular for its ornamental features. It can be propagated by seed, cuttings, layering, and grafting.
Propagation by Seed
Pittosporum acuminatum seeds can be obtained from the fruits that develop after flowering. The seeds can be soaked in water for 24 hours to soften the coat. After that, they can be sown in a potting mix or directly in the ground in a well-draining soil mix. The germination time can vary from 2-8 weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is an easy and common method for Pittosporum acuminatum. Select a mature and healthy plant and take cuttings of 15-20 cm from the tip of the branch. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a mixture of sand and peat moss. Keep the cuttings moist and in indirect sunlight. The roots will develop in 6-8 weeks.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation by layering is another simple method for Pittosporum acuminatum. Take a stem of a mature plant and make a small cut on the stem near a node. Apply rooting hormone on the area and wrap it with damp sphagnum moss. Tie the moss with plastic wrap and secure it with a rubber band. Keep the moss moist and wait for the root formation. It may take 6-12 months for roots to develop.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting is a method of combining the beneficial characteristics of two plants. It is commonly used for fruit trees, but it can also be used for ornamental plants like Pittosporum acuminatum. The process involves joining a scion of the desired cultivar with a rootstock of a related species. Grafting requires skilled techniques and proper care for successful growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff
Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff is a popular plant that is known for its ornamental features. However, like all other plants, Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff is also susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here is some information on common diseases and pests that might affect this plant, and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases of Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff
The following are some common diseases that may affect Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff:
Phytophthora Root Rot
This is a fungal disease that is caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi. The disease causes the plant to wilt, turn yellow, and eventually die. To manage this disease, avoid planting the Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff plant in areas with poor drainage. If the plant is already infected, then remove and discard affected plants, and avoid planting other susceptible plants in the same area.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. The disease is characterized by small brown spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and fall off. To manage the disease, remove and destroy affected leaves, and avoid overhead watering.
Stem Canker
Stem canker is a fungal disease that affects the stem of the plant. The disease causes the stem to develop sunken lesions, which eventually lead to the death of the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy affected plants, and avoid planting other susceptible plants in the same area.
Common Pests of Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff
The following are some common pests that may affect Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff:
Aphids
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stem of the plant. They can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage aphids, spray the plant with water or insecticidal soap.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the stem and leaves of the plant. They suck the sap from the plant, which can lead to stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage scale insects, carefully remove and discard affected leaves, and spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny, spider-like insects that suck the sap from the leaves of the plant. They can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water, or insecticidal soap.
By following these disease and pest management tips, you can ensure that your Pittosporum acuminatum Mann var. leptopodum Sherff plant remains healthy and free from pests and diseases.
