Overview
Rapanea ferruginea (Ruiz & Pavón) Mez, commonly known as matico or palo de matico, is a plant species belonging to the family Primulaceae. It is native to the Amazon basin, as well as several countries in Central and South America, including Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Appearance
This tree can grow up to 15 meters tall and has a cylindrical trunk with a diameter of up to 70 centimeters. The bark is gray-brown and rough, and the tree has alternate leaves that are obovate with a distinctive reddish tomentum underneath. The flowers are small and greenish-white, clustered in panicles, and produce small, round berries.
Uses
The plant is used for a variety of medicinal purposes, including its leaves being used as a poultice to treat infections, wounds, and fractures, as well as a topical treatment for mouth and gum ulcers. The leaves can also be boiled to create an infusion used to treat diarrhea, indigestion, and inflammation. The bark of the tree is also used as a remedy for diarrhea, dysentery, and hemorrhages, while the fruit is said to have anti-inflammatory properties. In addition to its medicinal use, rapanea ferruginea timber is used locally to produce furniture, flooring, and charcoal.
Growth Conditions for Rapanea ferruginea
Rapanea ferruginea (Ruiz & Pavón) Mez, commonly known as 'Makoi', is a plant species that is native to the tropical regions of Central and South America. The plant typically grows up to a height of 15 meters and has a diameter of 40 cm. It belongs to the family Myrsinaceae and is characterized by its handsome evergreen foliage and attractive brown bark.
Light Requirements
Rapanea ferruginea prefers full sunlight to partial shade to grow well. In its natural habitat, it grows as an understorey species in the forest, which means that it thrives in areas with moderate shade. It is important to note that the intensity of light required by the plant varies depending on different stages of growth. During the germination process, the plant needs enough light to sprout and grow healthy leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers a tropical and humid climate with an average annual temperature of 25 °C. It grows well in areas with an average minimum temperature of 20 °C and an average maximum temperature of 32 °C. The optimal temperature range allows for the smooth functioning of plant enzymes vital for growth and development. Low temperatures may cause wilting, while high temperatures can lead to scorching of leaves.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained, deep, and loamy soils rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be in the range of 5.5 and 6.5, which is slightly acidic. The plant is not suitable for areas with heavy clay soils or poorly drained soils as it impedes proper aeration and root penetration. It is important to note that the high salinity of the soil can affect the plant's growth, leading to stunted growth and poor fruit development.
Cultivation
Rapanea ferruginea is a relatively easy plant to cultivate. It tolerates a wide range of conditions, including full sun and partial shade. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy soils, clay soils, and loamy soils. When selecting a location for planting, choose a spot that receives partial shade or filtered sunlight.
Watering Needs
Rapanea ferruginea prefers consistently moist soil. Water the plant deeply at least once a week, and more frequently during hot, dry weather. Be sure not to overwater, as this can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Apply a slow-release fertilizer to the soil around the base of the plant in early spring. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and frequency. Alternatively, you can apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the health of the plant, but can be done to shape and control its growth. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Use sharp, clean pruning shears and make clean cuts just above a leaf node.
Propagation of Rapanea ferruginea (Ruiz & Pavón) Mez
Rapanea ferruginea (Ruiz & Pavón) Mez can be propagated through different methods such as seeds and vegetative propagation techniques.
Seed propagation
Seeds from mature fruits may be collected and sown in nurseries or directly in the field. The seeds should be washed clean and allowed to dry under shade before sowing. Sowing can be done in trays or on the seedbed at a depth of about 1cm. The trays should be filled with well-draining soil mix and kept moist until germination occurs.
The germination process takes approximately 2-4 weeks. Once the seedlings are about 10-15cm tall, they can be transplanted into poly bags for further growth.
Vegetative propagation
Rapanea ferruginea (Ruiz & Pavón) Mez can be propagated vegetatively through cuttings, air layering, and grafting. The most common method of vegetative propagation for this species is through stem cuttings. The cuttings are taken from mature plants during the active growth period.
The cuttings should be at least 15cm long and should include 2-3 nodes. They are then planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist until root development occurs. This method of propagation is preferred for the rapid production of uniform plants.
Air layering can also be used for propagation. This method involves girdling the stem of the plant and covering the wound with a rooting hormone and soil mix. Once the new roots have developed, the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted.
Grafting can be used as well, but it is not commonly used for this species.
Disease Management
Rapanea ferruginea is prone to various diseases that might adversely affect its growth and yield. Some of the common diseases that might affect the plant include:
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by fungi which manifests in the form of circular, brownish spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is advisable to remove the affected leaves and apply a copper-based fungicide.
- Anthracnose: This disease causes lesions on leaves and shoots resulting in defoliation and stunted growth. Copper-based fungicides can be used to manage the disease.
- Root rot: The roots of the plant might get infected with fungi, causing decay and reduced absorption of nutrients and water. To manage this disease, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
- Powdery mildew: This disease affects the leaves and stems, causing white or grayish powdery patches. To manage this disease, avoid overcrowding and ensure proper ventilation to reduce humidity levels.
- Dieback: This disease causes the branches and stems to die from the tips inward. To manage this disease, prune the infected parts and ensure that the plant is well-nourished to avoid stress.
Pest Management
Rapanea ferruginea might be affected by various pests that might hinder its growth and yield. Some of the common pests that might affect the plant include:
- Mealybugs: These pests are tiny, white insects that feed on plant sap and cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage these pests, wipe the affected parts with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol or neem oil.
- Scale insects: These insects attach themselves to stems and leaves, sucking out plant sap and causing yellowing or defoliation. To manage these pests, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: These pests are small, soft-bodied insects that suck out plant sap and excrete honeydew, leading to stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage these pests, spray the plant with a jet of water or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: These pests feed on leaves, buds, and flowers, causing defoliation and reduced yield. To manage these pests, handpick the caterpillars or spray the plant with Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis).
- Mites: These pests are tiny insects that feed on plant sap, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. To manage these pests, spray the plant with neem oil or a mixture of water and dish soap.
