Overview
Stryphnodendron barbadetimam (Vell. Conc.) C. Martius, also known as Barbatimão, is a plant species that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to Brazil and is commonly found in the Atlantic Forest region.
Common Names
The plant is known by several common names in Brazil, such as Barbatimão, Barbatimão-roxo, Casca-d'anta, and most commonly Cipó-catinga
General Appearance
The Barbatimão is a tree that can reach up to 9 meters in height. It has a straight trunk and a dense and rounded crown with delicate leaves that have lanceolate shape and serrated margins. The flowers are small and yellow, arranged in clusters, and bloom during the rainy season, from November to March. The fruits are long and narrow pods that contain small seeds.
Uses
The Barbatimão bark has medicinal properties and has been used traditionally for centuries for various ailments like diarrhea, wounds, inflammation, and bacterial infections. It has strong astringent, antiseptic, and cicatrizing effects that promote the healing of tissues and prevents infections. In addition to its medicinal properties, the tree's wood is used for various purposes like building furniture, beams, and fences, as well as as a fuel source for cooking and heating.
Growth Conditions for Stryphnodendron barbadetimam
Stryphnodendron barbadetimam, commonly known as barbatimão, is an evergreen, flowering tree that is native to South America. The tree grows up to 10 meters in height and has a broad, spreading canopy. It is typically found in the savannas and semi-deciduous forests of Brazil, Peru, and Bolivia, where it is used for its medicinal properties.
Light Requirements
Stryphnodendron barbadetimam thrives in full sunlight, although it can also tolerate partial shade. In order to ensure maximum growth and flower production, it is recommended that the tree be planted in a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. In areas with intense sunlight, some shading may be necessary during the hotter months of the year.
Temperature Requirements
This tree is adapted to tropical and subtropical climates, with temperatures ranging from 20 to 30°C (68 to 86°F). It is intolerant to frost and should be protected during winter temperatures that fall below 10°C (50°F). In areas with cooler climates, it is best to plant the tree in a sheltered location to protect it from strong winds.
Soil Requirements
Stryphnodendron barbadetimam prefers well-draining, fertile soils that are rich in organic matter. The tree can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. It is tolerant to drought and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
In areas with poor soil quality, it is recommended to amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve its fertility and drainage. The tree can also benefit from regular applications of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Cultivation of Stryphnodendron barbadetimam
Stryphnodendron barbadetimam, also known as the Barbados Ironwood, is a tree species found in South America. To cultivate this plant, choose a location with well-draining soil and full sunlight exposure. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels, from acidic to alkaline, but prefers slightly acidic soil. The temperature range for cultivation should be between 20-30°C.
Watering needs for Stryphnodendron barbadetimam
The Barbados Ironwood requires moderate watering, especially during dry seasons. It is advisable to water the plant deeply, so the water penetrates the root system. Overwatering can cause root rot and weaken the plant's root system, and so should be avoided.
Fertilization of Stryphnodendron barbadetimam
Fertilization is essential for the proper growth of Stryphnodendron barbadetimam. Slow-release fertilizers with a balanced N-P-K ratio, micro and macronutrients, are best suitable for it. Fertilizers containing organic matter such as compost are also ideal for this plant. Apply fertilizers in small amounts at regular intervals to avoid nutrient deficiency or toxicity.
Pruning the Stryphnodendron barbadetimam
Pruning Stryphnodendron barbadetimam is not necessary, but it can help shape the plant and increase annual growth rates. Prune during the winter months before the new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and control the plant's size if needed. Avoid over-pruning or removing large branches as this can damage the plant's overall structure.
Propagation of Stryphnodendron barbadetimam
Stryphnodendron barbadetimam (Vell. Conc.) C. Martius, commonly known as Barbatimão, is a native tree found in the Cerrado biome of Brazil. It is valued for its medicinal properties and ornamental value, making it a popular choice for landscaping and reforestation projects. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods:
Seed Propagation
The easiest and most common method of propagating Barbatimão is through seed. The seeds are relatively small and can be collected from mature fruit that has fallen from the tree. The seeds should be planted in a nursery bed or container filled with a well-draining soil mix. The seeds should be sown at a depth of about 1-2 cm and covered with a thin layer of soil. The nursery bed or container should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, and placed in a shady area. Germination can take anywhere from 15 to 30 days. Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be transplanted to larger containers or directly to the field.
Cuttings Propagation
Stryphnodendron barbadetimam can also be propagated through cuttings. This method is more difficult than seed propagation and requires more expertise. The cuttings should be taken from mature trees during the dormant season, and should be about 10-15 cm long and 0.5-1.0 cm in diameter. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix, and treated with rooting hormone. The cuttings should be kept in a humid environment and away from direct sunlight. Rooting can take anywhere from 30 to 60 days. Once the cuttings have rooted, they should be transplanted to larger containers or directly to the field.
Air Layering Propagation
Another method of propagating Stryphnodendron barbadetimam is through air layering. This method is more time-consuming but ensures that the new plant is an exact clone of the parent plant. A small branch of the tree is selected and a section of the bark is removed, leaving the inner tissue exposed. The area is then covered with a rooting hormone and a moist peat and perlite mix. The area is covered with plastic wrap and kept moist until roots form. Once roots are visible, the new plant is cut away from the parent plant and transplanted to a larger container or directly to the field.
Disease Management
Stryphnodendron barbadetimam is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, it can still suffer from a few fungal and bacterial infections that need management without delay.
One of the most common diseases of Stryphnodendron barbadetimam is root rot, which can lead to the death of the plant. To prevent this, limit watering and ensure that the soil is well-drained. If root rot has already infected the plant, remove it from the soil and apply a fungicide to the roots.
Another significant disease that Stryphnodendron barbadetimam can suffer from is leaf spot. This fungal disease can cause parts of the leaves to turn yellow, eventually leading to the death of the leaf. To prevent leaf spot, remove any infected leaves immediately, and apply a fungicide to the plant.
Pest Management
Stryphnodendron barbadetimam can generally resist pests, but some common pests can attack it, leading to severe damages.
One of the most common pests on this plant is the leaf-cutter ant, which can consume a significant portion of the leaves of the plant, leading to defoliation. To manage the ant, trim back vegetation around the plant and apply a chemical insecticide on the plant.
The plant can also suffer from infestations by caterpillars, which feed on the foliage. To prevent the caterpillars, prune any infected foliage off the plant, and apply a biological insecticide to prevent further infestation.
The plant can also attract aphids, which sap the fluids from the plant, leading to a weakened plant and stunted growth. To manage aphids, introduce natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings to the plant.
In conclusion, Stryphnodendron barbadetimam can suffer from relatively infrequent diseases and pests compared to other plant species, although timely management is crucial in preventing fatal damage.
