Origin
Sideroxylon reclinatum Michx. ssp. reclinatum, commonly known as the southern bully, is a small to medium-sized tree species native to the southeastern United States. It is found along the Gulf Coast states, from Virginia to Florida, and can also be found in Texas and Oklahoma.
Common Names
The Sideroxylon reclinatum Michx. ssp. reclinatum is commonly known as southern bully, sapling, bully tree, and scrub ironwood.
General Appearance
The tree can grow up to 15 meters in height and has a trunk diameter of up to 30 cm. It has a slow growth rate and can live up to 200 years. The bark of the Sideroxylon reclinatum Michx. ssp. reclinatum is dark grey and deeply furrowed. Its leaves are thick and leathery, 5-8 cm long and 1.3-2.5 cm wide. The leaves are usually oblong or elliptic-shaped and have a glossy, dark green color. The southern bully produces white flowers that bloom in spring or summer. The fruit of the southern bully is a hard, brownish-black berry that contains one or two glossy seeds.
Uses
The Sideroxylon reclinatum Michx. ssp. reclinatum wood is very hard and heavy, making it used for various purposes, including tool handles, fence posts, and furniture. The wood is also used in the production of charcoal. The southern bully also has medicinal properties that were used in the treatment of skin disorders by Native Americans. The plant is not commonly used in modern medicine, but its extracts are being studied for potential use in cancer treatment.
Light Requirements
Sideroxylon reclinatum Michx. ssp. reclinatum, commonly known as the umbrella tree, prefers full sunlight, but can tolerate some shade. It is best to plant this tree in an area with plenty of natural sunlight, which means at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. If planted in a shady area, it may grow slower, produce fewer flowers, and attract fewer pollinators.
Temperature Requirements
The umbrella tree is a subtropical to tropical species that is commonly found in the southeastern United States, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and can tolerate temperatures above 90°F (32°C). However, it is also tolerant of cooler temperatures, as long as they do not dip below 25°F (-4°C).
Soil Requirements
To ensure optimal growth of the umbrella tree, it is important to plant it in well-draining soil. The tree can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it prefers soil that is moist and slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. If the soil is too alkaline, the tree may have difficulty absorbing nutrients, and its growth may be stunted.
Cultivation Methods
The Sideroxylon reclinatum Michx. ssp. reclinatum, also known as the southern bully, should be planted in well-draining soils. It can tolerate many soil types, including clay, sand, and loam. The plant requires full sun or partial shade, and it should be protected from frost as it’s sensitive to low temperatures. The planting hole should be twice the size of the container or the root ball, and it’s recommended to plant in early spring or fall.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, but it’s essential to avoid waterlogging. Irrigation must be done deeply to promote root development and establishment. After planting, water the plant once a week, and gradually decrease the frequency as it becomes established. During the winter, reduce watering frequency to avoid root rot. Drought-tolerant, the southern bully can cope with short periods of water deprivation.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and flowering, fertilizer application is recommended. Apply a slow-release granular fertilizer during the growing season, preferably in early spring before the new growth appears. Alternatively, use a liquid fertilizer every two weeks, but avoid fertilizing during the winter months. Follow the package directions to prevent overfertilization.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the southern bully, but it can be done to shape the plant and remove dead or damaged branches. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears, using properly sterilized pruning tools. Avoid overpruning as it can harm the plant. For older, established plants, cut one-third of the branches to promote new growth and rejuvenate the plant.
Propagation of Sideroxylon reclinatum Michx. ssp. reclinatum
Sideroxylon reclinatum Michx. ssp. reclinatum, commonly known as American bully or buckthorn, can be propagated through different methods depending on the availability of resources, time, and expected outcomes.
Seed propagation
The most common and easiest method to propagate S. reclinatum is by seed. Seeds can be collected from mature fruits, which usually appear in fall or winter. The seeds need to be cleaned, and any damaged seeds or debris removed before planting.
A stratification process is required to increase the germination success of the seeds. One option is to put the seeds in a moist paper towel and place them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for at least two months. Another option is to put the seeds in a container with wet sand and keep them outdoors during the winter.
After the stratification process, the seeds can be planted in pots or directly in the ground. Planting in pots is recommended for better control of the growing environment. The seeds should be covered with no more than ¼ inch of soil or sand and kept moist until germination.
Cuttings propagation
Propagation through cuttings is also possible, although it requires more knowledge and skills to achieve success. Cuttings should be taken from young, healthy branches in the summer when the plant is actively growing.
The cuttings should be around 4-6 inches long, with the bottom cut made at a 45-degree angle. They can be dipped in a rooting hormone powder and inserted into a well-draining soil mix. Covering the pot with a plastic bag can help retain moisture and increase the chances of rooting.
The cuttings need to be kept in a warm and humid environment, with indirect light and regular watering to prevent the soil from drying out. It may take several weeks or even months for the cuttings to root and start producing new growth.
Disease and Pest Management for Sideroxylon reclinatum Michx. ssp. reclinatum
Sideroxylon reclinatum Michx. ssp. reclinatum, commonly known as the southern bully, is a small tree or shrub that is native to the southeastern United States. Although it is generally low-maintenance and hardy, it can still be affected by several diseases and pests. Here are some of the common issues and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf Spots: Leaf spots are one of the most common diseases that affect Sideroxylon reclinatum. These can be caused by several fungal pathogens and can lead to defoliation of the plant. To manage leaf spots, remove infected leaves and destroy them. Apply a fungicide spray to the remaining foliage and stems to prevent further spread of the disease.
Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that attacks the bark of the tree, causing it to become discolored and cracked. This can lead to dieback of the branches and ultimately the death of the tree. Prune away infected areas of the tree and apply a fungicide to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pests
Scale Insects: Scale insects are tiny, oval-shaped pests that attach themselves to the leaves and stems of Sideroxylon reclinatum. They can be identified by their waxy appearance. The insects feed on the sap of the plant and cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop prematurely. To manage this pest, use a horticultural oil spray to suffocate the insects and prevent them from feeding on the plant.
Aphids: Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can quickly infest the leaves and stems of Sideroxylon reclinatum. They feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and distortion of new growth. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to suffocate the insects and prevent them from reproducing.
Mites: Mites are tiny pests that can cause damage to the leaves and stems of Sideroxylon reclinatum. They feed on the sap of the plant and can cause the leaves to look speckled or yellowed. To manage mites, use a horticultural oil spray to suffocate the pests and prevent them from feeding on the plant.
