Overview
Pittosporum pentandrum, also known as Blanco's mock orange, is a flowering plant species in the Pittosporum family that is native to the Philippines. This small, evergreen tree or shrub has various practical uses, including as a medicinal plant and for ornamental purposes.
Physical Description
The Pittosporum pentandrum grows up to 14 meters in height and has a spreading canopy. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray, while its twigs are slender and reddish-brown. The leaves of the plant are glossy and leathery, measuring about 6 to 10 centimeters in length.
The flowers of this species are small and white with a pleasant fragrance. They usually grow in clusters of three to six at the end of the branches and bloom from March to June. The fruit of the plant is a spherical capsule that splits open when ripe, releasing numerous small seeds.
Common Names
Pittosporum pentandrum is known by several common names, including Blanco's mock orange, Philippine pittosporum, cinco-cinco, and gogon.
Uses
Traditionally, Pittosporum pentandrum has been used in Philippine folk medicine to treat various ailments. The leaves and bark of the plant contain several compounds that possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. They are crushed and applied to the skin to alleviate pain, and decoctions of the plant are ingested to treat respiratory infections, fever, and stomach problems.
In addition to its medicinal uses, Pittosporum pentandrum is a popular ornamental plant. The fragrant flowers and glossy foliage make it a favorite choice for use in gardens and parks. Its dense canopy provides excellent shade, and the plant is ideal for creating natural hedges and screens.
The wood of Pittosporum pentandrum is also used in construction, furniture-making, and handicrafts. Its durability and resistance to decay make it suitable for use as fence posts, bridge planks, and boat-building.
Typical Growth Conditions for Pittosporum pentandrum (Blanco) Merr.
Pittosporum pentandrum (Blanco) Merr. is an evergreen plant that is native to the Philippines. It typically grows in coastal forests and mangrove swamps, and can reach heights of up to 25 meters. Here are some typical growth conditions for Pittosporum pentandrum:
Light Requirements
Pittosporum pentandrum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the plant will not flower as well in lower light conditions. If grown indoors, provide bright, indirect light.
Temperature Requirements
Pittosporum pentandrum thrives in a warm, humid environment. It can tolerate occasional dips in temperature, but will not survive extreme cold. The ideal temperature range for this plant is between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
Pittosporum pentandrum prefers a rich, well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but will not thrive in heavy clay or overly sandy soil. The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Cultivation Methods
Pittosporum pentandrum (Blanco) Merr. is a hardy plant that grows well in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade. The plant can be propagated through cuttings and seeds. If propagated by cuttings, it is essential to use a rooting hormone to encourage root development.
Watering Needs
Watering Pittosporum pentandrum (Blanco) Merr. is essential to keep the plant healthy and prevent it from drying out. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. It is recommended to water deeply, allowing the water to saturate the soil and penetrate the roots. The plant should not be allowed to sit in stagnant water or become waterlogged as this could cause root rot.
Fertilization
Pittosporum pentandrum (Blanco) Merr. can benefit from regular fertilization. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer, preferably one that is high in potassium and phosphorus. The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, ideally every two to three weeks. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize, as this could result in foliage burn or produce excessive growth.
Pruning
Pruning Pittosporum pentandrum (Blanco) Merr. is essential to keep the plant in good health and encourage healthy growth. Dead, diseased, or damaged branches should be removed as soon as possible to prevent these problems from spreading to the rest of the plant. The best time to prune is during the growing season. The plant can be pruned to maintain a desired shape or size. It is recommended to use clean, sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant, and pruning should be done at an angle just above a bud or leaf node.
Propagating Pittosporum Pentandrum
Pittosporum pentandrum, also called bagalunga, is a flowering plant native to the Philippines. It can be propagated through various methods including seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Collect the seeds from the mature fruit and plant them in seed trays, with a mixture of compost and sand. Water the seeds regularly and place them in a warm, bright spot. The seeds usually germinate in 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown a few sets of leaves, they can be transplanted to individual pots.
Propagation by Cuttings
Cuttings from Pittosporum pentandrum are taken from semi-hardwood or hardwood stems, which are about pencil-thickness, during May or June. Remove the lower leaves and any flower buds or fruits from the cutting. Dip the base of the cutting in rooting hormone before planting in a potting mix. Keep the potting mix moist and the cutting in a bright, warm location. Once roots have formed and the plant is established, it can be transplanted to a larger container or directly into the ground.
Air Layering
Air layering is another method to propagate Pittosporum pentandrum. To do this, choose a healthy and active stem with a diameter of at least 1cm. Scrape the bark from the stem at the desired rooting site, and apply rooting hormone. Wrap the area with moist sphagnum moss, then wrap the moss with plastic wrap to keep it moist. Once roots have formed, cut the layer off the mother plant and transplant it to its new home.
Disease and Pest Management for Pittosporum pentandrum
Pittosporum pentandrum, also known as the Philippine Pittosporum, is a shrub or small tree commonly found in Southeast Asia. Though it is generally disease-resistant, certain diseases and pests may still affect the plant. Here are some common ones and how to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf spot is a fungal infection that manifests as circular brown spots on the leaves. To control leaf spot, remove and dispose of the affected leaves. Applying a fungicide can also help prevent its spread.
Sooty mold is a fungal disease that appears as a black powdery coating on the leaves. It occurs as a secondary infection due to the presence of honeydew-excreting insects such as aphids and whiteflies. To manage sooty mold, control the infestation of the honeydew-excreting insects by applying insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots to rot and leads to wilting and yellowing of the leaves. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering. Adding compost to the soil can also improve its health and prevent the growth of fungi.
Pests
Whiteflies are small, winged insects that suck the sap from the leaves and excrete honeydew, which attracts sooty mold. Control whiteflies by spraying the leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can cause leaf curling and yellowing. Management involves removing them manually or using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Scale insects are tiny insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems and suck the sap. They secrete a sticky substance that can attract ants and cause sooty mold. To control scale insects, apply insecticidal oil or soap.
By following these steps, you can keep your Pittosporum pentandrum healthy and free from pests and diseases.
