Overview
Planchonella rhynchosperma, also known as yellow sapote or pouteria, is a species of tree belonging to the family Sapotaceae. It is native to the Pacific region, particularly in Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. This plant is known for its sweet fruit and medicinal properties, which are commonly used in traditional medicine.Appearance
Planchonella rhynchosperma is a large tropical evergreen tree that can grow up to 25 meters tall. It has glossy dark green leaves, white or cream flowers, and oval-shaped fruit that is yellow in color and slightly smaller than a tennis ball. The fruit contains soft and juicy pulp with one or two elongated seeds.Common Names
This plant is commonly known as yellow sapote due to its yellow fruit and pouteria, which refers to the genus that includes several other related species in the family Sapotaceae. In Fiji, it is also called 'misi lolo' or 'misi lolo ni vavalangi', which translates to 'foreigner's fruit' due to its origin from another land outside Fiji.Uses
Planchonella rhynchosperma is mainly known for its sweet and flavorful fruit, which is eaten fresh or used in making jams, jellies, and desserts. The fruit is also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. In traditional medicine, the bark, leaves, and fruit of this plant are utilized to treat various ailments such as respiratory infections, diarrhea, and fever. The bark is also utilized for making dyes, and its wood is used for constructing furniture or buildings. In conclusion, Planchonella rhynchosperma is a versatile plant that has numerous benefits to offer, including medicinal, nutritional, and cultural value. This unique tree is an essential part of Pacific Island culture and biodiversity.Light Requirements
Planchonella rhynchosperma needs a good amount of light to grow well. It thrives under full sunlight exposure, but it can also tolerate some shades for a few hours. However, an excessive amount of shade can cause poor growth and reduced fruit production.
Temperature requirements
The plant grows well in tropical and subtropical climates with an average temperature range of 25-30°C during the daytime and 20-25°C at night. Any temperature below 10°C can be detrimental to the growth and development of the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, but it prefers sandy loam soils with good drainage. It does not grow well in heavy clay soils, which are poorly drained. They also require soil that is rich in organic matter, with a pH ranging from 5.5-7.0.
Cultivation
Planchonella rhynchosperma grows well in warm and humid climates, thriving in tropical and subtropical regions. In cultivating this plant, it is recommended to start with a healthy sapling. The plant requires well-draining soil and partial to full sunlight exposure. It is ideal to plant it in a slightly raised area since it cannot tolerate standing water.
Watering needs
Planchonella rhynchosperma requires moderate watering during its growing season, from spring through fall. However, it is essential to avoid overwatering, especially in poorly-draining soils, as it can cause root rot. In contrast, it should not dry out completely. Therefore, it is vital to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
To ensure healthy growth, it is ideal to fertilize Planchonella rhynchosperma with a complete fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. The fertilizer should be applied during the growing season, following the manufacturer's recommendations. Also, avoid overfertilizing, as it can burn the plant's roots and affect its overall health.
Pruning
Pruning Planchonella rhynchosperma is necessary to maintain the plant's shape and size, promote healthy growth, and remove damaged or diseased branches. It is best to prune during the dormant season, from late fall to early spring, when the plant is not actively growing. Use sterilized pruning shears to make clean cuts and avoid spreading diseases.
Propagation Methods for Planchonella rhynchosperma (Rock) St. John
Planchonella rhynchosperma, commonly known as wild plum or Inocarpus, is a small tree native to the American Samoa islands. It belongs to the family of Sapotaceae and is valued for its edible fruit and timber. Propagation of Planchonella rhynchosperma can be done through various methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Planchonella rhynchosperma through seeds is the most common and easiest way of generating new plants. Mature fruit of the plant contains multiple seeds that can be collected and used for propagation. The collected seeds must be washed and dried thoroughly to avoid any fungal infection or disease.
After drying, the seeds can be sown in a moist germination mix and should be covered with a thin layer of soil. The pot or tray must be kept in a warm and humid location with good air circulation. Germination of seeds can take between two to three weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted once they are large enough to handle.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is another method of propagating Planchonella rhynchosperma. It includes techniques such as stem cuttings, air layering, and grafting.
Stem cuttings can be taken from young, healthy stems from the parent plant and should be about 20 cm long. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting must be treated with rooting hormone before planting. The cutting is then planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm, humid location. Rooting of the cutting can take between 4 to 6 weeks.
Air layering involves making a cut on a mature stem of the parent plant and applying rooting hormone. The cut portion is then wrapped in moist sphagnum moss and covered in plastic wrap to create a humid environment. Once roots have developed, the rooted stem can be cut and transplanted.
Grafting can also be used for Planchonella rhynchosperma propagation and is best performed during the plant's dormant season. The scion of the parent plant is grafted onto a rootstock from a closely related species to produce a new plant with desired traits and characteristics.
Disease Management for Planchonella rhynchosperma
Planchonella rhynchosperma is relatively resilient to diseases. However, it can still experience infections from certain diseases. Here are some common diseases that affect Planchonella rhynchosperma and how to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes small, sunken spots on leaves, stems, and fruit. To manage anthracnose, remove and destroy infected plant parts, and apply a fungicide to the affected plant areas.
Root rot
Root rot is a fungal disease that causes discolored or wilting leaves, stunted growth, and plant death. To manage root rot, remove infected plants and avoid overwatering or poorly drained soil.
Pest Management for Planchonella rhynchosperma
Planchonella rhynchosperma can also be affected by certain pests. Here are some common pests that affect Planchonella rhynchosperma and how to manage them:
Fruit flies
Fruit flies can attack the fruit of the Planchonella rhynchosperma causing damage. To manage fruit flies, regularly harvest ripe fruits and remove any fallen or damaged fruits from the tree plantation area. Also, you can apply bait or eco-friendly traps to reduce the number of flies around the plants.
Mites
Mites are small arachnids that can cause yellowing of leaves, premature defoliation, and deformation of the Planchonella rhynchosperma fruits. To manage mites, apply natural predators, such as ladybugs or parasitic wasps, and horticultural sprays.
Scale insects
Scale insects are small, flat, and oval insects that can infest the leaves, stems, and fruits of Planchonella rhynchosperma. To manage scale insects, prune the infested areas and apply insecticidal soap to kill the pests.
