Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni: Origin and Common Names
Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni is a tropical plant that belongs to the family Sapotaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, including regions of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. The plant is commonly known as 'butter fruit', 'kendong', 'ciku', 'taliana', and 'sawo hutan' in various regions.
General Appearance
The plant Planchonella subnuda is a medium-sized tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall. It possesses an evergreen canopy with a conical-shaped crown. The trunk is typically straight with a diameter of up to 1 meter. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown with deep furrows. The leaves are simple, alternate, and oblong-shaped, measuring up to 20 cm in length and 10 cm in width. The foliage is glossy green, and the undersides are covered with fine hairs that give them a velvety texture.
The flowers of Planchonella subnuda are small and white, and they are borne in clusters. The fruit of the tree is an elongated berry that is 5 to 10 cm long and 3 to 5 cm in diameter. The fruit has an orange-yellow, smooth, and thin skin that peels easily. The flesh is soft, creamy, and sweet, with one to four small brown seeds embedded within.
Uses
The fruit of Planchonella subnuda is edible and is consumed raw or cooked. The fruit has a high nutritional value and is a good source of vitamins A and C. The fruit pulp is also used in traditional medicine to treat skin infections and digestive disorders. The bark, leaves, and roots of the plant are also used medicinally for various ailments, including fever, coughs, and diarrhea.
Aside from its medicinal and culinary uses, Planchonella subnuda is also valued for its timber, which is used to make furniture and other household items. The tree's hard and durable wood is also used in construction and boat-building industries.
Lastly, the plant has an important ecological role as it serves as a food source for various animal species, including birds and bats.
Light Requirements
Planchonella subnuda requires plenty of sunlight for optimal growth. It thrives in areas where it can receive full sun exposure. However, it can also adapt to partial shade as long as it receives at least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily. Shaded environments can cause a slower growth rate and an increased risk of disease susceptibility.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Planchonella subnuda is between 25 to 35°C. This tropical plant can tolerate high humidity levels, but cannot withstand frost or temperatures below 10°C. It grows well in areas with stable temperatures, as extreme temperature fluctuations can negatively affect the plant’s growth and fruit production.
Soil Requirements
Planchonella subnuda is adaptable to different soil types but prefers moist, well-drained, and fertile soil. It can grow in soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. Sandy loam and red clay soils are most suitable for its growth. It can also tolerate occasional waterlogging, but long-standing water can lead to root rot and other diseases. Adding organic matter to poor soils can improve its fertility and nutrient content, leading to better yields.
Cultivation methods for Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni
Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni is a tropical tree that prefers warm and humid climates. It can be cultivated in the ground or in large pots, provided they have well-draining soil. The tree will thrive in a partial shade environment, such as under a taller canopy tree or in a shaded area of the garden.
Watering needs for Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni
Watering requirements for Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni depend on the environment in which it is planted. Ideally, it should receive regular watering that keeps the soil moist but not overly saturated. During the drier months, more frequent watering will be required to keep the soil moisture levels up.
Fertilization methods for Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni
A slow-release fertilizer is recommended for Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni. It should be applied once a year, preferably in the spring. The fertilizer should be worked into the soil around the base of the tree, making sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning techniques for Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni
Pruning Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni will help maintain the shape of the tree and encourage new growth. It should be done in the late winter or early spring before new growth occurs. To encourage branching and fullness, prune away any upward-facing branches and make cuts just above a lower outward-facing bud. Dead or diseased wood should also be removed.
Propagation of Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni
Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni, commonly known as the Australian black plum, is a tropical evergreen tree popular for its fruit and ornamental value. Propagating this plant is quite easy, as it can be done through several methods, including:
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Planchonella subnuda is by using seeds. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and lightly cover them with soil. Keep the soil moist and warm. Germination can take several weeks to months, depending on the temperature and humidity levels.
Cutting propagation
Propagation of Planchonella subnuda can also be done using cuttings. Choose healthy stems that are about 4-6 inches long and have at least two nodes. Strip off the leaves from the lower half of the stem and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a potting mix and keep it moist. Place the pot in a warm, bright location, but avoid direct sunlight. Within a few weeks, the cutting should grow roots.
Air layering propagation
Air layering is a propagation method that works well for Planchonella subnuda. Choose a healthy stem and strip off a 1-2 inch section of bark from the middle. Apply rooting hormone to the exposed area and wrap it with damp sphagnum moss. Cover the moss with plastic wrap or a bag and secure it tightly. Roots should form within 4-6 weeks. Once roots are formed, cut below the moss, plant in potting mix and keep moist until the plant is established.
Overall, Planchonella subnuda is an easy plant to propagate, especially using seeds or cuttings. However, it is important to follow appropriate care for the newly propagated plant to ensure success.
Disease and Pest Management for Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni
Planchonella subnuda (Baker) Baehni, commonly known as the yellow boxwood, is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. It is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but can be prone to certain diseases and pests that require proper management to keep the tree healthy and thriving.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affects Planchonella subnuda is leaf spot. This is a fungal infection that causes dark spots on the leaves, eventually leading to defoliation and weakening of the tree. To manage this disease, it is important to remove and destroy any infected leaves, and to avoid overhead watering that can spread the fungus. It is also helpful to improve air circulation and reduce humidity levels around the tree.
Another disease that can affect the yellow boxwood is root rot. This is a fungal infection that attacks the roots of the plant, leading to wilted leaves and eventual death. To manage this disease, it is important to plant the tree in well-draining soil, and to avoid over-watering. If root rot is suspected, it may be necessary to remove the affected tree and replace it with a new one.
Common Pests
One of the most common pests that affects Planchonella subnuda is the mealybug. These small insects feed on the sap of the tree, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage mealybugs, it is important to inspect the tree regularly for signs of infestation, and to remove any affected leaves or branches. In severe cases, it may be necessary to use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control the infestation.
Another pest that can affect the yellow boxwood is the scale insect. These small, oval-shaped insects attach themselves to the branches and leaves of the tree, feeding on the sap and causing yellowing and wilting. To manage scale insects, it is important to scrape them off the tree with a soft-bristled brush or cloth, and to apply a horticultural oil to suffocate any remaining insects.
Overall, proper care and maintenance of Planchonella subnuda can help to prevent and manage diseases and pests. Regular inspection and pruning, proper watering and fertilization, and good soil drainage can all help to promote a healthy and thriving tree.
