Overview:
Stelechocarpus burahol (Blume) Hook. f. & Thomson is a flowering plant species belonging to the Annonaceae family, native to Southeast Asia.
Appearance:
The plant is a tall, evergreen tree that can grow up to 30 meters high. It has a straight trunk with a diameter of 50-60 cm and a dense crown composed of small branches and leaves. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and elliptical to oblong in shape, measuring up to 20 cm long and 8 cm wide. The tree produces fragrant flowers that are yellowish-green in color and up to 4 cm in diameter. The fruit is a globose berry, up to 5 cm in diameter, dark green to blackish-brown when ripe.
Common Names:
Stelechocarpus burahol is known by a variety of common names including Borneo mahogany, burahol, damar laut, sea dammar, and tar.
Uses:
The tree is valued for its timber and various medicinal uses. The wood is used for construction, furniture-making, and carving. The bark and leaves are used in traditional medicine for treating various ailments, and the fruit is edible and used as a spice in Indonesian cuisine. Additionally, the tree produces a resin that is used for making incense and perfume.
Light Requirements
Stelechocarpus burahol prefers a partially shaded environment. The plant can tolerate full sun, but it needs to be acclimated gradually. Direct exposure to intense sunlight can cause leaf scorching and stress to the plant. It is best to place them under a canopy, eaves, or in areas where the sunlight is filtered.
Temperature Requirements
Stelechocarpus burahol is native to tropical regions and prefers warm temperatures. The plant thrives in temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The minimum temperature requirement is 18°C (64°F). Temperatures below this may cause the plant to wilt, and growth will slow down.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should range from slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6 to 7). Avoid using heavy-clay soils that retain too much moisture as this may cause root rot and affect the plant's growth. A good potting mix will have a combination of peat moss, perlite, and coarse sand.
Cultivation Methods for Stelechocarpus burahol
Stelechocarpus burahol is a tropical tree that requires warm temperatures for optimal growth. It is recommended to grow it in a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal pH range for this tree is between 6.5 and 7.5. This plant tolerates shade but grows best under full sun exposure.
Watering Needs for Stelechocarpus burahol
Stelechocarpus burahol requires regular watering during the growing season, especially in hot and dry weather. The plant needs to be watered deeply but infrequently to avoid waterlogging. It is essential to check the soil moisture level before watering to prevent overwatering, which can cause root rot. During the dormant season, the plant requires less frequent watering.
Fertilization for Stelechocarpus burahol
Stelechocarpus burahol requires regular fertilization to thrive. A slow-release fertilizer with a balanced formulation of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium can be used during the growing season. The fertilization rate depends on the plant's age and size. Young and small trees require less fertilizer than mature and large trees. It is recommended to apply fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer.
Pruning Stelechocarpus burahol
Pruning can help to control the growth and shape of Stelechocarpus burahol. It is recommended to prune the tree during the dormant season to avoid damaging the new growth. The pruning should be done selectively, removing only the dead, diseased, and damaged branches. The tree does not require heavy pruning unless it becomes overgrown or unbalanced. Regular pruning helps to maintain the tree's health and appearance.
Propagation of Stelechocarpus burahol
Stelechocarpus burahol is commonly propagated through seeds and air layering.
Seed Propagation
Seeds are the most common method of propagation for Stelechocarpus burahol. The seeds are extracted from the fruit and sowed in a well-draining planting mix. The seeds should be planted at a depth of 2-3 cm and covered lightly with soil. The soil should be moist, but not too wet. Germination can take up to 4-6 weeks, and the seedlings should be kept under partial shade until they have developed a few leaves.
Air Layering
Air layering is another method of propagation for Stelechocarpus burahol. This method involves creating a wound on a healthy branch and then wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss. The moss should be covered with plastic wrap to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out. Roots will form in the moss after a few weeks. The rooted branch can then be cut and planted in a pot filled with well-draining soil.
Disease Management
Stelechocarpus burahol is susceptible to various diseases such as root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew. To manage these diseases, it is essential to practice good sanitation. Remove dead and infected plant debris, and do not overcrowd the plants as this can create a humid environment where diseases thrive. Additionally, avoid overhead watering and instead water the plants at the base to prevent moisture from settling on the leaves, which can lead to fungal growth.
If you notice any signs of disease, such as brown spots on leaves or wilting plants, immediately isolate the affected plants to prevent the spread of the disease to other plants. You can also use fungicides to manage diseases, but it is advisable to consult a professional to determine the best method of controlling the specific disease that is affecting your plants.
Pest Management
Stelechocarpus burahol is also prone to attack by pests such as mealybugs, spider mites, and scale insects. These pests can cause wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stunted growth.
To manage pests, it is important to conduct regular inspections of your plants to identify any signs of infestation. If you notice any pests, you can use insecticidal soaps or neem oil to control and prevent further infestation.
You can also use cultural control methods such as releasing natural predators such as ladybugs and lacewings to help control the population of pests. Good sanitation practices, such as removing debris and fallen leaves, can also discourage the breeding of pests in your garden.
It is important to note that the use of pesticides should be a last resort and reserved for severe cases of infestation. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions when using pesticides and make sure to wear protective clothing to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals.
