Overview
Scutia myrtina (Burm.f.) Kurz var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Evrard, also known as Indian cherry, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Rhamnaceae. This plant species is commonly found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including India, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Description
Indian cherry is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 10 meters in height. It has an evergreen foliage that is dark green in color and glossy in appearance. The leaves are oblong in shape, with a length of 5-12 cm and a width of 2-5 cm. The plant produces small, white or pinkish-white flowers that are arranged in clusters or inflorescences. The fruits are small, round or oblong in shape, and turn black when ripe.
Common Names
This plant species is known by different common names in various regions. In India, it is called "Karaunda" or "Karonda," while in Thailand, it is called "Ma-yom" or "Yom." In Laos, it is known as "Makngiet," and in Vietnam, it is called "Sau tàu."
Uses
The Indian cherry plant has several uses in traditional medicine and culinary practices. In Ayurveda, the dried fruits, leaves, and bark of the plant are used to treat various ailments, such as diarrhea, dysentery, and constipation. The fruits are sour in taste and are used to make pickles, chutneys, and jams. The plant also has a decorative value and can be used as a hedge or ornamental plant in gardens and parks.
Light Requirements
The Scutia myrtina var. oblongifolia plant requires full to partial sun exposure to grow properly. It thrives under bright light conditions; however, excessive direct sun can damage the foliage and hinder growth. Therefore, it is recommended to provide the plant with a shade in hot summer months.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can withstand a wide range of temperatures. It prefers warm temperatures with a minimum of 12°C (54°F) and a maximum of 30°C (86°F). Low temperatures can halt the plant's growth, and frost can cause significant damage to the foliage. The Scutia myrtina var. oblongifolia plant can tolerate brief periods of drought, but prolonged dryness can lead to leaf fall.
Soil Requirements
Scutia myrtina var. oblongifolia can grow in various types of soil, provided it has adequate drainage. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It can grow in sandy, loamy, or clay soil, but the soil should be well-drained to prevent waterlogging. The plant thrives in soil enriched with organic matter, making it ideal to use humus or compost to improve soil quality.
Cultivation Methods
Scutia myrtina (Burm.f.) Kurz var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Evrard is generally a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for. It prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. When planting Scutia myrtina (Burm.f.) Kurz var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Evrard, dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Place the plant in the hole and backfill with a mixture of soil and compost. Tamp down the soil and water well.
Watering Needs
Scutia myrtina (Burm.f.) Kurz var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Evrard prefers moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once every week during the growing season, and reduce watering to once every two weeks during winter. Be sure not to overwater Scutia myrtina (Burm.f.) Kurz var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Evrard, as too much moisture can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Scutia myrtina (Burm.f.) Kurz var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Evrard benefits from periodic fertilization to promote healthy growth. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring, and again in early summer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the recommended amount. Avoid applying too much fertilizer, as this can damage the plant.
Pruning
Scutia myrtina (Burm.f.) Kurz var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Evrard does not require extensive pruning, but occasional pruning can help to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches using clean, sharp pruning shears. Remove any crossing branches or branches that are rubbing against each other. Cut back any excessively long or leggy branches to improve the plant's overall shape.
Propagation of Scutia myrtina (Burm.f.) Kurz var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Evrard
Scutia myrtina (Burm.f.) Kurz var. oblongifolia (Engl.) Evrard, also known as the Natal black plum, is a small tree or shrub that is native to southern Africa. Propagation of this plant can be done by seed or vegetative means, such as cuttings or layering.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is a common method for Scutia myrtina. The seeds are typically collected from ripe fruit and sown immediately in a seed tray or small pots. The seeds should be covered with a light layer of soil and kept moist. Germination should occur within a few weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to larger pots when they are big enough to handle.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is another option for Scutia myrtina. Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings can be taken from the plant and treated with a rooting hormone before being planted in well-draining soil. The cutting should be kept moist and in a shaded area until roots have formed, which can take several weeks. Once established, the cutting can be transplanted to a larger pot or planted in the ground.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation by layering involves bending a low-hanging branch of the plant towards the ground and burying a section of it in soil. The buried section of the branch will eventually root and develop into a new plant. Once the new plant has established roots, it can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted into its own pot or planted in the ground.
Disease Management
Scutia myrtina var. oblongifolia is relatively resistant to diseases. However, it can still be affected by various diseases, including:
- Leaf spots: These are characterized by the appearance of small, circular or angular spots on the leaves. They are caused by fungal pathogens and can be managed by removing and destroying infected leaves. Fungicide applications may also be necessary.
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by the fungus Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. It can cause leaf drop and stem dieback. Affected plant parts should be pruned and destroyed. Fungicide application can also be helpful.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease is characterized by the appearance of a white, powdery substance on the leaves. It can be managed by improving air circulation around the plant and removing and destroying infected leaves. Fungicide application can also be helpful.
Pest Management
Scutia myrtina var. oblongifolia can also be affected by pests, including:
- Spider mites: These pests are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause leaf yellowing and premature leaf drop. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Scale insects: These insects produce a waxy coating that protects them from predators and insecticides. They can be managed by using horticultural oil or by physically removing them from the plant with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- Caterpillars: These pests can cause significant damage to the plant by feeding on the foliage. They can be managed by using Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) or other organic insecticides.
To prevent disease and pest problems, it is important to maintain healthy plants by providing them with proper growing conditions, such as adequate moisture, soil nutrients, and sunlight. Regular monitoring of the plant for signs of disease and pests can also help catch problems early, making them easier to manage.
