Overview of Rhus succedanea L.
Rhus succedanea L., commonly known as the Japanese wax tree or sumac, is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the Anacardiaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, such as Japan and Korea, and can also be found in China, India, and other tropical regions of Asia.
General Appearance
The Japanese wax tree has a typically small size, reaching only about 1-4 meters in height. The leaves are pinnate, meaning that they have a feather-like structure, and are usually 20-40 cm long. The flowers are tiny and yellow-greenish, and they form large clusters or spikes at the tips of the branches. The fruit is a small drupe that is round or oblong, measuring about 5mm in diameter. It has a waxy coating that is extracted for various uses.
Common Names
The Japanese wax tree has a lot of common names, depending on the region where it is grown. In Japan, it is known as "haze no ki" or "nuri," while in China, it is called "la'shu." In Korea, it is known as "gorosoe." Its English common names include "wax tree," "wax sumac," and "berry wax."
Uses
One of the main uses of Rhus succedanea L. is the production of wax, which is extracted from the fruit. The wax has a yellow color and a grainy texture, which makes it useful for making candles, polishes, and varnishes. It is also used in traditional Chinese medicine as an anti-inflammatory and a remedy for diarrhea.
The bark, leaves, and fruits of the Japanese wax tree are also used in dyeing and tanning. The bark is rich in tannins, which are used for coloring fabric and leather. The leaves and fruit have a high concentration of pigments that produce a orange-yellow color when exposed to alkaline water. This color is often used to dye silk and cotton fabrics.
In addition, the Japanese wax tree is sometimes grown as an ornamental plant. Its beautiful leaves and showy flowers make it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping, especially in Asian countries.
Light Requirements
The Rhus succedanea L. plant usually requires full sun to partial shade in order to thrive. It can tolerate direct sunlight and can grow well in either. However, it is important to note that in partial shade, the plant may not grow as fast as it would in full sun. It is advisable to place the plant in an area where it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day.
Temperature Requirements
The Rhus succedanea L. plant typically grows well in moderate to warm temperatures. The plant can tolerate temperatures between 18 to 25°C during the day and will grow well in temperatures above 15°C at night. When the weather gets extremely cold, it is important to cover the plant with a protective covering or move it indoors to prevent damage.
Soil Requirements
The Rhus succedanea L. plant can grow well in a variety of soil types, including loamy, sandy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-draining. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil pH levels between 5.5 to 7.0. It is important to ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter to provide the plant with adequate nutrients. Add compost, well-aged manure or leaf litter to boost soil fertility and structure. Regular mulching can help to maintain soil moisture and also provide an additional source of nutrients as the organic matter decomposes.
Cultivation of Rhus succedanea L.
Rhus succedanea L., commonly known as the Japanese wax tree, can be cultivated in temperate regions. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant grows well in full sunlight, and saplings can be planted during the rainy season. The spacing between the saplings should be approximately 10 to 12 feet.
Watering Needs for Rhus succedanea L.
The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. Watering should be done once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. During the winter season, watering should be done less frequently.
Fertilization of Rhus succedanea L.
The plant requires regular fertilization to support its growth. A balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be used. Fertilizers should be applied during the growing season, and the frequency of application depends on the type of fertilizer and the age of the plant.
Pruning of Rhus succedanea L.
Pruning is done to maintain proper shape, remove dead or diseased branches, and promote new growth. Pruning should be done during the winter season when the plant is dormant. The pruned branches can be used for making wax and other products. Proper tools should be used for pruning, and the cuts should be made at an angle to promote healing and prevent waterlogging.
Propagation of Rhus succedanea L.
Rhus succedanea L. is commonly known as the Japanese wax tree and is propagated through various methods.
Seed propagation
The plant can be propagated through seeds, which are collected from the mature fruit of the plant. The seeds are then soaked overnight in water to remove the pulp. The cleaned seeds are then sown in well-drained soil, and covered with a thin layer of topsoil. The seeds are watered and allowed to grow under partial shade until they germinate, which can take up to four weeks.
Cuttings propagation
The plant can also be propagated from stem cuttings, which are taken from the mother plant during the active growing season. The cutting should be about 15 cm long and should be taken from a healthy plant. The leaves on the lower part of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. The cutting is then planted in a container filled with potting soil and placed in a warm, humid, and shaded area. The cutting should be kept moist until roots develop, which can take up to six weeks.
Air layering propagation
Air layering is another method of propagation for Rhus succedanea L. In this method, a stem from the parent plant is partially cut and wrapped in moist soil or sphagnum moss. The plant is then wrapped in plastic to maintain the moisture level and humidity around the stem. Roots will grow from the cut area, and once they are well established, the new plant can be cut off and potted.
Overall, Rhus succedanea L. can be propagated through seed, stem cuttings, and air layering, and each method has its advantages and disadvantages. The method used will depend on the desired outcome of the propagation process, the availability of materials, and the preferences of the gardener.
Disease Management
Rhus succedanea L. is susceptible to a variety of diseases and infections that can cause significant damage if left untreated. Some of the most common diseases that affect this plant include:
- Leaf spots: These are fungal or bacterial infections that create brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this disease, remove and dispose of any infected leaves and limit overhead watering to prevent the spread of fungal spores.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal infection creates a powdery white coating on the surface of the leaves and stems. To manage this disease, use fungicides and ensure adequate air circulation around the plant.
- Verticillium wilt: This fungal infection causes yellowing and wilting of the leaves, usually starting at the base of the plant. To manage this disease, remove and destroy any infected plant parts and avoid planting in soil that has previously had verticillium wilt.
Pest Management
Rhus succedanea L. can also be affected by a variety of pests that can cause damage to the leaves, stems, and fruits of the plant. Some of the most common pests include:
- Aphids: These tiny insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause leaves to become distorted or yellowed. To manage aphids, try spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or use insecticidal soap.
- Mites: These are also tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing or bronzing of the leaves. To manage mites, use a miticide or insecticidal soap and ensure adequate air circulation around the plant.
- Fruit flies: These insects lay their eggs in the fruits of the plant, which can cause them to rot and fall off prematurely. To manage fruit flies, use insecticidal sprays or trap them using sticky traps or baited jars.
