Origin
Pseudocedrela excelsa Dawe & Sprague, commonly known as the "Santillo" tree, is a species of tree native to South America. It is found in tropical and subtropical regions such as the Amazonian Basin, the Atlantic Forest, and the Dry Chaco.
Common Names
Besides "Santillo" tree, Pseudocedrela excelsa is also known by other common names such as Brazillian Cedar, Falso Cedro, and Cedrinho.
Uses
The Santillo tree is valued for its timber and is widely used in the furniture and construction industries. Its hardwood is easy to work with and is resistant to decay and termites. It is also used for manufacturing musical instruments, veneers, and plywood.
Additionally, the Santillo tree has medicinal properties and has been used by indigenous communities in South America as a treatment for various ailments such as coughs, asthma, and fever.
General Appearance
The Santillo tree is a tall, evergreen tree that can grow up to 45 meters in height. Its trunk has a straight, cylindrical shape that can reach up to 1.5 meters in diameter. The bark of the tree is smooth and grey, with horizontal lines and fissures.
The leaves of the tree are compound, meaning that they have multiple leaflets attached to a central stem. Each leaflet is oblong and can grow up to 20 centimeters in length. The tree produces small white, fragrant flowers that grow in clusters and fruit that resembles a capsule.
The wood of the Santillo tree is typically a warm reddish-brown color with a straight grain and fine texture.
Light Requirements
Pseudocedrela excelsa Dawe & Sprague typically grows in full sun to partial shade, depending on its location. As the plant matures, it can handle more sun exposure. When grown indoors, it requires plenty of light or indirect light from a south or west-facing window.
Temperature Requirements
This species prefers warm and humid climates, making it a suitable plant for tropical regions. A temperature range of 22-32°C (71.6-89.6°F) is optimal for its growth. It cannot tolerate temperatures below 10°C (50°F) and suffers cold injury below 5°C (41°F).
Soil Requirements
Pseudocedrela excelsa Dawe & Sprague grows best in well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a soil pH of 6.0-7.5. It is tolerant of slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. It can tolerate occasional dry periods, but extended periods of waterlogged soil can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Cultivation Methods
Pseudocedrela excelsa, also known as Cedro Macho or Brazilian cedar, can grow up to 50 meters tall in its native habitat. For cultivation, it is best to choose a location that has well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant can also tolerate light shade, but growth may be slower. It is recommended to plant Pseudocedrela excelsa in the spring, after the last frost. The plant should be spaced about 5-8 meters apart, as it needs plenty of space for its roots to grow. When planting, ensure that the soil around the root ball is moist, as this will help the plant to establish quickly.Watering Needs
Pseudocedrela excelsa requires regular watering, especially during the first few years of growth. Watering should be done deeply and infrequently to encourage the development of a deep root system. Too much water can lead to waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot and other problems. During times of drought, it is important to water the plant more frequently. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate and soil conditions. To determine whether the plant needs watering, check the soil moisture level by inserting a finger about 2-3 inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water.Fertilization
Pseudocedrela excelsa requires regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth. A balanced fertilizer that contains equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is recommended. Fertilization should be done in the spring, just before the plant begins to grow. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering and fruiting. To avoid this, follow the recommended dosage on the fertilizer package and apply it evenly around the base of the plant.Pruning
Pseudocedrela excelsa requires minimal pruning, but some occasional shaping may be necessary to promote a good structure. Pruning is best done during the dormant season, either in late winter or early spring. When pruning, it is important to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. This will help to prevent the spread of disease and insect infestations. It is also a good idea to remove any crossing or rubbing branches, as they can damage the bark and lead to infections. Overall, Pseudocedrela excelsa is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal maintenance. With proper care, it can provide years of enjoyment with its beautiful foliage and fragrant flowers.Propagation Methods for Pseudocedrela excelsa Dawe & Sprague
The propagation of Pseudocedrela excelsa Dawe & Sprague can be achieved through a combination of sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
Seeds are the primary method of sexual propagation for Pseudocedrela excelsa Dawe & Sprague. The seeds should be collected during the peak fruiting season and cleaned of any fleshy pulp. The seeds should then be sown in a suitable planting mixture and kept moist in a warm and bright environment. Germination usually occurs within 3-4 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted after they have developed their first true leaves.
Asexual Propagation
Pseudocedrela excelsa Dawe & Sprague can be propagated asexually through cuttings or air-layering. Cuttings should be taken from the current year’s growth, and the leaves should be removed from the bottom half of the cutting. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and then planted in a suitable planting mixture. The cuttings should be kept moist and in a bright, warm environment. New growth usually appears after 6-8 weeks.
Air-layering is also an option for asexual propagation. This involves making a cut in the stem and applying rooting hormone to the exposed area. The area is then wrapped in sphagnum moss and covered with plastic wrap. Roots will form in the moss, and the stem can be cut and planted once the roots have developed sufficiently.
Disease and Pest Management for Pseudocedrela excelsa Dawe & Sprague
Pseudocedrela excelsa Dawe & Sprague, also known as the Cedro Macho or Honduras cedar, is a tropical tree known for its durable wood and ornamental value. However, it is also prone to several diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Effective disease and pest management strategies are essential to maintain the plant's aesthetic and functional value.
Common Diseases Affecting Pseudocedrela excelsa
Fungal Leaf Spot: This is a common disease that affects Pseudocedrela excelsa. Fungal spores cause small brown or black spots on the leaves, and if left untreated, the leaves can fall off, leading to stunted plant growth. To manage fungal leaf spots, it's essential to remove and discard infected plant parts and ensure adequate air circulation in the plant's canopy. Applying a fungicide can also help prevent the spread of the disease.
Root Rot: When the soil is waterlogged, the roots of the Pseudocedrela excelsa tree may begin to rot, leading to wilting and eventual death. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure that the soil is well-drained. Similarly, ensuring good soil aeration and reducing soil compaction can help prevent root rot pathogens from invading the plant's roots.
Common Pests Affecting Pseudocedrela excelsa
Termites: Termites are one of the most common pests that affect Pseudocedrela excelsa. These pests burrow into the plant's wood and feed on it, leading to structural damage and reduced overall tree health. To manage termite infestations, it's essential to identify potential entry points and take measures to prevent termites from entering the plant's canopy. Treating the soil around the plant with insecticides can also prevent termite infestations.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are another pest known to infest Pseudocedrela excelsa. They feed on the plant's leaves, leading to defoliation and reduced plant growth. Using natural predators like birds and insect parasites to control caterpillars is an effective pest management strategy. Applying botanical insecticides like neem oil can also help manage caterpillar infestations.
Effective disease and pest management is critical to maintaining the health and aesthetics of Pseudocedrela excelsa. Identifying common diseases and pests, and employing appropriate preventive measures and treatments, can help preserve the longevity and productivity of this ornamental tree species.
