Overview:
Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff is a shrub species from the family Pittosporaceae. This evergreen plant is known for its attractive appearance and various uses in traditional medicine.
Origin:
This plant is native to Chile, particularly in the central and southern regions. It also grows in other South American countries such as Argentina and Bolivia.
Common Names:
This plant has different common names across its distribution range. In Chile, it is known as "café del aire," which means coffee of the air, while in Argentina, it is called "huevo de gallo," which means rooster egg. Other common names include "sacahuista" and "matacabra" in Bolivia, which translates to grass cutter and goat killer, respectively.
Uses:
The leaves and bark of the Pittosporum glabrum plant have been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes. In Chile, the leaves are used as a natural remedy for respiratory ailments such as asthma and bronchitis. The bark, on the other hand, is used as a stimulant and tonic for the digestive system. In some parts of South America, the plant's wood is also used for furniture and construction purposes, while the branches are utilized as forage for livestock.
General Appearance:
Pittosporum glabrum is a shrub that can grow up to 6 meters in height. It has dark green leaves, oval-shaped, and glossy. The plant's flowers are yellow and appear in small clusters, which emit a pleasant fragrance. The fruits are small and oval-shaped, containing small black seeds, which are dispersed by the wind.
Typical Growth Conditions for Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff
Light: Pittosporum glabrum var. glomeratum requires full to partial sunlight for optimum growth. It can also tolerate shade for short periods, but prolonged exposure to low light can result in stunted growth and reduced flowering.
Temperature: The plant thrives in moderate temperatures ranging from 15 - 25°C (59 - 77°F). Extreme temperatures below 13°C (55°F) or above 30°C (86°F) can cause stress and damage to the plant.
Soil: Pittosporum glabrum var. glomeratum prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 - 7.5. It can grow in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. The soil must be rich in organic matter for better growth and development.
Water: The plant requires regular watering to maintain healthy growth. It prefers moist, well-draining soil, but overwatering can lead to waterlogging, which can cause root rot. The frequency of watering depends on soil type, temperature, and humidity.
Fertilizer: Pittosporum glabrum var. glomeratum responds well to regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied once every six months. Over-fertilization can result in excessive growth, which can make the plant more susceptible to diseases and pests.
Pruning: The plant responds well to pruning to maintain its shape, and control its size. Pruning should be done after the flowering season has ended to encourage new growth. Regular deadheading of spent flowers can also encourage continuous blooming.
Pests and Diseases: The plant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to scale insects, mealybugs, and fungal leaf spots. Proper care, including adequate watering, pruning, and fertilization, can improve the plant's resistance to pests and diseases.
Cultivation of Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff
Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff require well-draining soil, plenty of sunlight, and moderate temperatures for growth. Choose a site that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Ensure that the soil drains water effectively to prevent waterlogging. The plant thrives in slightly acidic soil conditions, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5.
Water Needs of Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff
The water requirements for the Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff are moderate. Water the plant regularly, once or twice a week, especially in the summer or dry season. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid excessive watering in winter to discourage root rot.
Fertilization of Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff
Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff requires regular fertilization to achieve optimal growth and flowering. Apply a slow-release fertilizer with a high nitrogen content formula during the growing season, usually from early spring to early autumn. Reduce the frequency of fertilization or switch to a low-nitrogen formula in winter.
Pruning of Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff
Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff does not require frequent pruning but can benefit from occasional trimming to maintain its shape and promote bushiness. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before the growth season begins. Cut back the stem tips to control the height, remove damaged or diseased branches, and thin out the overcrowded branches.
Propagation of Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff
Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff or also known as South African Pittosporum is commonly propagated by seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff can be easily collected from the pods once they are mature. Before planting the seeds, soak them in warm water for about 24 hours. After soaking, plant the seeds in well-draining soil and ensure that they are not planted deeply. Keep the soil moist and warm and avoid overwatering the plant to prevent root rot. The seeds will germinate in two to three weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff can also be propagated by softwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken from the new growth of the plant during the spring season. The cuttings should be about 10 cm long and have a few sets of leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil, keeping it moist and warm. Place the cutting in a shaded area for a few weeks before it is ready to be transplanted.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation by layering is another method to propagate Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff. Layering is done by selecting a low-growing branch, removing the leaves and creating a shallow groove on the underside of the branch. Apply rooting hormone to the groove and secure it to the ground with a U-shaped pin. The branch should be covered with soil leaving the tip exposed. Water the soil and keep it moist for a few weeks until roots develop. Once the roots are established, cut the layer from the parent plant and transplant it to a new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff
Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff can be affected by various diseases and pests that can harm its growth and health. Proper disease and pest management practices can help prevent and control these issues, ensuring the plant's optimal health.
Common Diseases
One of the most prevalent diseases in Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff is root rot caused by fungi like Phytophthora nicotianae. It can affect the roots and stems, causing wilting, yellowing, and eventual death of the plant. Faulty irrigation practices can lead to root rot, so it is essential to only water the plant when the soil is dry and ensure proper drainage.
Another common disease is leaf spot, which is caused by the fungus Cercospora pittospori. It can cause yellowing, spotting, and curling of the leaves, leading to defoliation. Leaf spot can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and keeping the foliage dry. Fungicides can also be used to control leaf spot, but proper dosage and timing are crucial.
Common Pests
Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff can be affected by pests like scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests suck the plant's sap, leading to stunted growth, yellowing, and premature leaf drop.
Scale insects secrete a protective covering that makes them challenging to control. The use of horticultural oil or insecticidal soap can help reduce their populations. Mealybugs are covered in a white, waxy substance that can be removed by wiping them off with a damp cloth or cotton swab. Spider mites can be controlled by introducing predatory mites or spraying the plant with a fine mist of water.
Management Practices
One of the best management practices is ensuring the plant is healthy and well-maintained. A healthy plant can better withstand pest and disease attacks. Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of issues can also help detect problems early on before they become severe.
The use of chemical pesticides and fungicides should be a last resort and only used according to the instructions listed on the label. Overuse of these products can lead to pesticide resistance and harm beneficial insects and organisms.
In conclusion, Pittosporum glabrum Hook. & Arn. var. glomeratum (Hbd.) Sherff can be affected by various diseases and pests. Proper management practices, including avoiding overwatering, ensuring proper drainage, and regular inspections, can help prevent and control these issues. Chemical pesticides and fungicides should be used sparingly and according to the label instructions.
