Origin and Common Names
Pittosporum viridiflorum subsp. malosanum (Baker) Cufod. is a shrub that belongs to the family Pittosporaceae. This plant species is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, including Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Kenya, and Ethiopia. Common names for Pittosporum viridiflorum subsp. malosanum include Chequered Pittosporum and Malaosan Pittosporum.
Appearance
Pittosporum viridiflorum subsp. malosanum can grow up to 4 meters in height. The leaves are elliptic to oblong in shape, dark green with a glossy appearance, and leathery in texture. The leaf margins are slightly recurved, and the veins are conspicuous on both the upper and lower surfaces. The branches of Pittosporum viridiflorum subsp. malosanum are reddish-brown in color and have lenticels.
The flowers of Pittosporum viridiflorum subsp. malosanum grow in clusters of 3-4, and are greenish-yellow in color. The fruit is an oval-shaped capsule that is green when young and turns brown when ripe. The capsule contains numerous small, black seeds that are enclosed in an aril.
Uses
Pittosporum viridiflorum subsp. malosanum has a number of uses. The leaves of this plant have been traditionally used as a herbal remedy for a range of ailments, including stomach problems, coughs, and sore throats. In addition, the bark of the plant has been used to make rope, while the wood has been used to make tool handles.
Pittosporum viridiflorum subsp. malosanum is also commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. The plant's glossy leaves and attractive flowers make it a popular choice for landscaping. It is also a good plant for attracting birds and other wildlife to the garden.
Light Requirements
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum prefers full sun to partial shade in order to thrive. In tropical regions where the sun can be intense, it is best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day to avoid leaf scorch.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers moderately warm temperatures. In its native range, it can survive temperatures as low as 25°F (-4°C) and as high as 115°F (46°C). However, in general, it grows best in temperatures between 60-80°F (15-26°C). In cooler temperatures, growth rates may slow down, and in hotter temperatures, it may require more frequent watering.
Soil Requirements
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum grows well in a wide range of soil types, as it is adaptable to different soil conditions. However, it grows best in well-draining soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level. The soil should also be rich in nutrients and organic matter to support healthy growth. Avoid planting in waterlogged soils, as this can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum, commonly known as cheesewood or maulsperm, is a small to medium-sized tree that is native to South Africa. It prefers to grow in well-drained, moderately fertile soil, but it can tolerate a range of soil types. It should be planted in an area that receives full to partial sun, and it can be grown in both humid and dry climates.
Watering Needs
During the first few weeks after planting, Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum should be watered regularly to help establish its root system. Once established, it only needs to be watered during periods of drought or when the soil is exceptionally dry or sandy. Overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum does not require heavy fertilization, but it will benefit from an annual application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring. The fertilizer should be applied at the base of the tree and watered in thoroughly. Overfertilization should also be avoided as it can damage the tree.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum, but it can be done to control the size and shape of the tree. It is best to prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Any dead, diseased, or damaged branches should be removed, and the overall shape of the tree can be trimmed if desired. The tree can also be pruned to maintain a dense foliage canopy.
Propagation Methods of Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum, also known as the apple-berry or cheesewood, is a flowering shrub native to South Africa. This plant can be propagated through various methods, which include:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum is through seed. The seeds can be collected from the plant after the fruits have ripened and turned brown. The seeds must then be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing them in a well-draining potting mix in a nursery bed or seed tray.
The seeds should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist. In about four to six weeks, the seeds will start to germinate.
Cuttings Propagation
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum cuttings can be taken from the softwood or semi-hardwood regions of the plant. The cuttings must be taken in summer, treated with rooting hormone, and then planted in a well-draining potting mix.
The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly until they develop roots. This can take between four to six weeks.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another method that can be used to propagate Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum. This method involves digging up the plant and dividing the root ball into several sections. Each section should have a healthy shoot and well-developed roots.
The divisions should then be planted in a well-drained soil mixture and kept moist until the plant establishes itself.
Propagation of Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum is easy and can result in a lush, full plant. With proper care and maintenance, these propagation methods can be successful and produce a healthy and beautiful plant for the garden or home.
Disease and Pest Management for Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum
Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum, commonly known as the cheesewood, is a popular evergreen shrub or small tree that provides dense foliage cover, making it a great addition to gardens and landscapes. To maintain the health and beauty of the plant, it’s essential to be familiar with the common diseases and pests that can affect it. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that can affect Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum and how to manage them.
Diseases
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that attacks the leaves, causing them to turn yellow or brown, and form small, circular spots. To manage the disease, prune off the infected leaves and avoid overhead watering. Fungicide applications can also control the spread of the disease.
Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots to decay, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. To manage root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant. Fungicide applications can also control the spread of the disease.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that forms a white powdery coating on the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. To manage the disease, prune off the infected leaves and maintain good air circulation around the plant. Fungicide applications can also control the spread of the disease.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and become distorted. To manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small, immobile insects that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and die. To manage scale insects, prune off the infected areas and apply insecticidal sprays or neem oil to control their population.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged insects that feed on the leaves, causing them to appear stippled and discolored. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
By being vigilant and promptly managing any diseases or pests that may affect Pittosporum viridiflorum Sims subsp. malosanum, you can ensure that the plant remains healthy and vibrant, providing stunning foliage in your landscape for years to come.
