Origin
Sideroxylon celastrinum, commonly known as "Matapalo" or "Guayacán," is a species of tree in the Sapotaceae family. It is native to Mexico, Central America, and South America, including Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador.
Common Names
Aside from "Matapalo" and "Guayacán," Sideroxylon celastrinum is also known by other common names such as "Bitterwood," "Bois-Puanteur," and "Coco-Piquant."
Uses
The wood of Sideroxylon celastrinum is used for furniture, flooring, and construction. In some parts of Central and South America, the bark and leaves are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as diarrhea, fever, and hypertension. The fruit of the tree is edible and is used to make jams and preserves.
General Appearance
Sideroxylon celastrinum is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 70 cm. The bark is gray-brown and rough, with deep fissures. The leaves are simple, alternate, and leathery, with an oval to elliptical shape and a glossy green color. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, with a yellow-green color, and they develop into fleshy, orange to red-colored fruits that are about 2 cm in diameter. The tree blooms during the dry season, which is typically from December to February.
Light Requirements
Sideroxylon celastrinum prefers to grow in full sunlight. It can tolerate some shade, especially during the hottest part of the day. However, it will grow best when planted in an area that receives a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to tropical climates and needs warm temperatures to thrive. It can tolerate a range of temperatures, but grows best when daytime temperatures are between 70-90°F (21-32°C) and nighttime temperatures do not drop below 60°F (16°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause leaf drop and slow down growth.
Soil Requirements
When it comes to soil, Sideroxylon celastrinum prefers well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy soil and clay soil, as long as the soil is not waterlogged. If the soil is heavy or clay-like, consider adding organic matter to improve drainage and soil structure.
Cultivation Methods for Sideroxylon celastrinum
Sideroxylon celastrinum is native to Central America, and it grows best in hot and humid regions with well-draining soil and partial shade. The plant is suited for growing in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
It is best to propagate sideroxylon celastrinum from seeds, which should be sown in seed trays with moist soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, and maintain a warm temperature of around 70 to 80°F until germination, which typically takes between two and three weeks.
Watering Needs for Sideroxylon celastrinum
Watering is crucial for the growth and survival of any plant, and sideroxylon celastrinum is no exception. The plant requires regular and thorough watering during the growing season, especially during dry periods.
It is best to water the plant deeply, giving it enough water to soak the soil to its roots. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely between watering as this can harm the plant, but also do not overwater as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization for Sideroxylon celastrinum
Sideroxylon celastrinum will benefit from occasional fertilization to promote growth and boost its immune system against diseases. You can fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied once a year in the early spring. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for the correct dosage, based on the size of your plant. Avoid using too much fertilizer as this can cause the plant to produce lush foliage at the expense of flowers and fruits.
Pruning Sideroxylon celastrinum
Pruning helps to shape, control, and promote the health of the plant. Prune sideroxylon celastrinum in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches with clean, sharp shears. Cut back any side shoots to two or three buds from the main stem to promote lateral growth.
If you want to control the size of the plant, you can prune it more drastically. Cut back the main stem to the desired height, leaving two to three buds for new growth to sprout.
Propagation of Sideroxylon celastrinum
Sideroxylon celastrinum (Kunth) T.D. Pennington, commonly known as the canela, is a small tree or shrub native to central and South America. Propagation of this plant can be done through seeds or cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
The seeds of Sideroxylon celastrinum are best sown fresh, as they have a short viability period. The seeds should be cleaned and soaked in water for 48 hours before planting.
The ideal time for sowing the seeds is in early spring, either directly in the field or in pots. If sowing in pots, use a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist until germination occurs.
Germination can take up to two months. Once germinated, the seedlings can be transplanted to their final location.
Propagation by cuttings
Sideroxylon celastrinum can also be propagated through softwood cuttings taken in early spring or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer.
Take cuttings that are 4-5 inches long with a clean cut at the base and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder and plant it in a well-drained potting mix.
Keep the cuttings moist and in a warm, bright location until roots form. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted to their final location.
Propagation of Sideroxylon celastrinum by seeds or cuttings is easy and straightforward. With proper care and attention, the plant can be successfully propagated and grown in a home garden or nursery.
Disease and Pest Management for Sideroxylon celastrinum (Kunth) T.D. Pennington
Sideroxylon celastrinum (Kunth) T.D. Pennington is a hardy plant species that has minimal disease and pest problems when grown in optimal growing conditions. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases:
Leaf Spots: Leaf spots are a common problem that can occur on Sideroxylon celastrinum plants. These spots are caused by fungal pathogens that live in the soil. To prevent leaf spots, it's essential to maintain proper drainage and avoid overwatering. If leaf spots appear on the leaves, pruning the infected sections may help prevent the disease from spreading. The use of a fungicide can also help to manage the disease.
Root Rot: Root rot is a common problem that can occur in plants that are waterlogged or not adequately drained. It's essential to monitor watering and ensure that the roots have access to air and don't stay in standing water. If root rot occurs, it can be challenging to save the plant. In severe cases, it may be necessary to remove and discard the plant to limit the spread of the disease to other plants.
Pests:
Mites: Spider mites are common pests that can affect Sideroxylon celastrinum plants. These mites feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to become discolored and damaged. Periodic cleaning of the leaves and spraying with a strong jet of water can help remove mites. Alternatively, the use of insecticidal soap can help control mites.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are another pest that can affect Sideroxylon celastrinum. They feed on the leaves, causing extensive damage. The use of Bacillus thuringiensis can help control caterpillar populations. Alternatively, handpicking caterpillars can also help limit damage.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are a type of insect that can affect the plant, feeding on the plant's sap and causing damage. Scale insects can be difficult to manage, but the use of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can help control them effectively.
In conclusion, while Sideroxylon celastrinum (Kunth) T.D. Pennington is a hardy plant species, it isn't immune to diseases and pests. By understanding common diseases and pests, gardeners can take appropriate measures to manage them. Proper care and timely intervention can help keep the plant healthy, vigorous, and attractive.
