Origin:
Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. macropus Skottsberg is a species of plant that belongs to the Pittosporaceae family. It is native to southern Chile and Argentina, where it grows in the lower Andes range and the Patagonian forests.
Common names:
This species of plant has several common names depending on the region where it grows. In Chile, it is commonly known as "Canelo de hoja angosta", which translates to "Narrow-leaved Canelo". In Argentina, it is referred to as "Lilo" or "Lilán".
Uses:
The Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. macropus Skottsberg plant has several uses. Its wood is highly appreciated in carpentry for its durability, strength, and beautiful grain. Additionally, its leaves are used for medicinal purposes, especially in traditional indigenous medicine, where they are used to treat rheumatism and respiratory problems.
General appearance:
The Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. macropus Skottsberg is a medium-sized evergreen tree that reaches heights of up to 20 meters. It has a dense, conical crown and a straight trunk that can have a diameter of up to 50 centimeters. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and narrowly elliptic, measuring between 5 and 15 centimeters in length. The flowers are small, bell-shaped, and have a creamy-white color. The fruit is a woody capsule that contains small, black seeds.
Growth Conditions for Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. macropus Skottsberg
Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. macropus Skottsberg, commonly known as the Australian cheesewood, is a small evergreen tree that is native to eastern Australia.
Light Conditions
This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Under full sun exposure, it grows well and develops lush foliage. However, if exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, the leaves can scorch and dry out. Therefore, it is advisable to plant it in a sheltered spot where it can receive some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
Pittosporum terminalioides var. macropus is a hardy plant that can withstand temperature fluctuations and tolerates a range of temperatures. It prefers warm and humid conditions but is capable of growing in temperatures as low as 10 °F (-12 °C) and as high as 115 °F (46 °C).
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in well-drained soils that are fertile, acidic to slightly alkaline, and moist. It does not tolerate water-logging, so the soil should be able to drain water quickly. Adding organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to the soil before planting can help improve soil fertility and structure.
Soil pH must range between 5.5 to 7.5. For acidic soil, sulfur can be added to the soil to further reduce the pH. On the other hand, to increase pH, agricultural lime can be incorporated.
In summary, when growing Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. macropus Skottsberg, ensure that it is exposed to full sun to partial shade, the temperature has to be between 10 °F (-12 °C) and 115 °F (46 °C) and the soil should be well-drained, fertile, and acidic to slightly alkaline.
Cultivation
Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. macropus Skottsberg, commonly known as the kohuhu, is a tree native to New Zealand. It can grow up to 10 meters tall and prefers a well-draining soil that is neutral to slightly acidic. The tree thrives in full sun to partial shade and is a slow grower.
Watering Needs
Watering needs for the kohuhu vary depending on the climate. In areas with high rainfall, the tree may not require additional watering. However, in drier climates, the tree benefits from regular watering. It is important to avoid over-watering as it can lead to root rot and other diseases. The soil should be allowed to dry slightly between watering sessions.
Fertilization
The kohuhu benefits from fertilization during the growing season. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be used every six months. A slow-release fertilizer can also be beneficial as it provides nutrients over an extended period of time.
Pruning
Pruning the kohuhu is important for maintaining its shape and size. The tree should be pruned in late winter or early spring before the growing season begins. Dead or damaged branches should be removed, as well as any crossing branches that may cause damage. The tree can be pruned to maintain a desired shape, but it is important not to remove more than one-third of the foliage at a time.
Propagation of Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. macropus Skottsberg
Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. macropus Skottsberg, commonly known as karamu, is a New Zealand native plant with a variety of uses ranging from ornamental purposes to medicinal applications. The plant is best propagated through cuttings, seedlings, or layering.
Cuttings
To propagate karamu through cuttings, select a healthy plant with robust growth and take a non-flowering branch with a length of around 10cm. Ensure that the cutting has a few leaves and nodes and remove any lower foliage on the stem. Dip the cutting in rooting hormone and place it in a well-draining potting mix that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Ensure that the cutting is placed in a sheltered area with bright, indirect sunlight. In about 6-8 weeks, the cutting should have formed roots and can be transplanted into a larger container or directly into the ground.
Seedlings
Karamu can also be propagated through seedlings. Collect the seeds in autumn or early winter and store them in a cool, dry place until spring. Scarify the seeds by nicking them with a sharp knife, then soak them in water overnight. Sow the seeds in a seedling tray filled with quality seed-raising mix and cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the tray in a sunny area with partial shade. The seeds should germinate in around two weeks and can be transplanted to individual pots once they have grown to around 5cm. The seedlings can be transplanted into the ground once they reach around 20cm in height.
Layering
Propagation through layering involves bending a low, flexible branch of a mature plant to the ground and fixing it with a small stake. Make a small cut in the bark area that is in contact with the soil and cover it with soil. Keep the soil moist and wait for new roots to form, which could take several months. Once new roots have formed, cut the layer from the parent plant and transplant it into a well-prepared site.
Disease and Pest Management for Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. macropus Skottsberg
Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. macropus Skottsberg is a popular ornamental plant known for its attractive foliage and fragrant white flowers. While this plant is generally hardy and resistant to pests and diseases, it is still susceptible to certain conditions. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Phytophthora root rot: This disease is caused by a water mold and can be easily diagnosed by the sudden wilting and yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and a rotting or blackening of the roots. To manage this disease, ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering the plant. Fungicides like phosphorous acid can also be used as a preventative measure.
Bacterial blight: This disease causes small, dark, water-soaked spots on the leaves, stem, and flowers, which eventually turn brown and die off. To manage bacterial blight, prune the affected branches and dip the pruning shears in rubbing alcohol between cuts to avoid spreading the disease. Copper-based fungicides can also be used to control the spread of the bacteria.
Pests
Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing the leaves to curl and turn yellow. They also excrete a sticky substance that attracts ants and other pests. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill them.
Scale insects: Scale insects appear as small bumps on the leaves and stems, and they can be mistaken for part of the plant. These pests feed on the plant sap and produce a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and other insects. To manage scale insects, use a soft brush to remove the pests and their protective coverings, and then spray the plant with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
By following these tips, you can help to prevent and manage the common diseases and pests that can affect Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. macropus Skottsberg, keeping it healthy and attractive for years to come.
