Origin
Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli, also known as Pentagon Cocoa, is a species of flowering plant in the family Malvaceae. The plant is native to the rainforests of Central and South America, including countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru.
Common names
Pentagon Cocoa is known by various names across its native range, including "tuno," "dearillo," "chocolate de puna," and "cinco hojas." The plant's scientific name, Theobroma pentagonum, translates to "food of the gods with five leaves."
Uses
Theoobroma pentagonum Bernoulli is a valuable plant for its fruit, which is used to produce cocoa. Unlike other cocoa species, Pentagon Cocoa has a unique sour taste, which makes it a popular ingredient for beverages and desserts. The plant is also used traditionally in indigenous medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, cough, and intestinal parasites.
General Appearance
Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli is a small, evergreen tree that can grow up to 6 meters in height. It has a straight trunk with smooth, light grey bark. The plant produces oblong-shaped leaves with a glossy surface and a bright green color. Pentagon Cocoa flowers bloom on the branches, producing small pinkish-white or yellowish flowers that grow in clusters. The plant's fruit is a rough, reddish-brown pod that grows up to 15 centimeters long and 10 centimeters wide. The pod contains numerous small, brownish-black seeds, which are used to make cocoa powder and chocolate.
Light Requirements
Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli is a tropical plant that requires bright and filtered light conditions for healthy growth. It thrives best in partial shade or filtered sunlight that allows dappled light to fall on its leaves. Direct sunlight can scorch its leaves and cause damage to the plant. Therefore, it is recommended to grow this plant under shaded conditions.
Temperature Requirements
Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli thrives well in warm and humid environments. It prefers a temperature range between 60°F (15°C) to 90°F (32°C) and the humidity level of around 75% to 85%. This plant is sensitive to cold temperatures and frost, and therefore, it should be protected from extreme cold temperatures. A consistent temperature is essential for the proper growth and development of this plant.
Soil Requirements
Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It does well in slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range between 5.5 to 7.5. A mix of peat moss, vermiculite, and sand is the ideal soil mixture for this plant. It can also grow in clay soils, but proper soil drainage is essential to prevent waterlogging. Good soil aeration is vital for healthy root development in this plant.
Cultivation Methods
Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli, commonly known as the pentagon spiced cocoa, is a species of chocolaty tree native to Central and South America. The plant thrives in warm, humid, and shady conditions with well-drained and slightly acidic soil. It can be grown from seed or cutting, but seedlings are more preferred for cultivation. The seedlings should be transplanted into larger containers or open fields after they reach a height of approximately 30cm and have four leaves or more.
Watering Needs
Proper watering is essential for the growth and yield of Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli. The plant requires moderate watering regularly, especially during the dry season. Overwatering should be avoided as it may cause the roots to rot and reduce productivity. Irrigation should be done in the morning or late in the evening to prevent leaf burning and ensure that the plant has enough time to absorb the water before sunset.
Fertilization
Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli requires regular fertilization to provide the necessary nutrients for optimal growth and yield. The plant requires nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus in balanced quantities. Fertilizers should be applied at least twice a year, either before planting or during the rainy season. Organic fertilizers such as compost or animal manure can also be applied to improve soil structure and maintain soil moisture.
Pruning
Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli requires regular pruning to remove dead, damaged, or diseased branches and leaves to improve air circulation and prevent the spread of diseases. Pruning also encourages even growth and enhances yield production. The best time to prune is during the dry season when the plant is dormant, and the risk of infection is minimal. The pruning should be done using sharp and sterilized tools to avoid injuring the plant and spreading infections.
Propagation of Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli
Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli, commonly known as the pentagonis cocoa, is a species of plant in the Malvaceae family that is native to South America. Here are the common methods of propagation for this plant:
Seed Propagation
Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli can be propagated by seeds. To do this, collect the seeds from ripe fruits since they tend to have a higher germination rate. The seeds should then be cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool and dry place before planting them.
Soil preparation is an essential step in seed propagation. The soil should be rich in nutrients and well-draining. Sow the seeds in pots or seed trays filled with soil, and keep them in a warm and humid environment. Ensure that you water the seeds sufficiently to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli seeds usually germinate within 3-6 weeks. Once the seedlings have emerged, transplant them to larger containers and eventually, to their permanent location in the field or garden.
Cuttings Propagation
Another propagation method for Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli is through cuttings. It is essential to select the parent plant carefully to ensure that only healthy and robust cuttings are used.
The cuttings should be obtained from the semi-hardwood sections of the plant, and its leaves should be cut to half their size to minimize transpiration. The cuttings should also be dipped in rooting hormone powder, then planted in well-draining soil and kept in a warm and humid area.
Over time, the cuttings will start to develop roots, and once the root system is well-established, transplant to larger containers before planting them in the field or garden.
Air Layering Propagation
Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli can also be propagated through air layering. This method involves inducing the plants to develop roots while still attached to the parent plant.
Firstly, select a healthy parent plant and locate a stem that is flexible, medium-sized with leafy growth. Cut the bark halfway around the stem and apply rooting hormone powder. Then use a plastic wrap or a moist sphagnum moss and wrap it around the stem, securing it with a string.
It would be best to keep the moss moist and frequently monitor the roots' development until they're about 2-3 inches long. You may cut the stem below the air-layered roots and plant it in well-draining soil or transfer it to a container filled with soil. Ensure the soil is kept moist and shaded until the plant is firmly established.
In conclusion, these three propagation methods, i.e., seed propagation, cutting propagation, and air layering propagation, are all viable options for propagating Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli. Choose the method that works best for you depending on the available resources and grow your plant with care and patience.
Disease and Pest Management for Theobroma Pentagonum Bernoulli
Theobroma pentagonum Bernoulli, also known as wild cocoa, is a plant native to Mexico, Central America, and South America. Like other plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can negatively affect its growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect wild cocoa and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Black Pod Rot - This is a fungal disease that thrives in warm and humid conditions. It causes the pods to turn black and mildewy, with a foul odor. To manage this disease, you should remove infected pods and avoid leaving ripe pods on the tree for too long. Also, use proper pruning techniques to increase air circulation around the plant to reduce humidity.
Witches' Broom - This is another fungal disease that causes the plant to grow abnormally, resembling a broom. The disease spreads through infected seeds, cuttings, and pruning tools. To manage witches' broom, remove infected branches and leaves and discard them far away from the plant. Also, ensure that the plant is in optimal growing conditions, including proper spacing and good soil drainage.
Phytophthora Root Rot - This is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant. It causes wilting and yellowing of the leaves, which can lead to stunted growth or even death. To manage this disease, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering the plant. Also, do not plant wild cocoa in areas with a history of the disease.
Pests
Cocoa Pod Borer - This is the most destructive insect pest of cocoa. The larvae of this moth bore into the pods, causing them to drop prematurely or rot. The best way to manage this pest is through cultural practices such as timely harvests, proper pruning, and regular removal of fallen pods. Additionally, use pheromone traps to monitor and control the population of adult moths.
Mealybugs - These are tiny insects that suck sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and even die. Mealybugs also produce a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts other pests and fungi. To manage mealybugs, use neem oil or insecticidal soap, which are effective against this pest. Also, prune affected areas and avoid over-fertilization, which can attract mealybugs.
Scale Insects - These insects attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant, sucking sap and causing wilting and yellowing. To manage scale insects, use a horticultural oil spray or a systemic insecticide that targets the pest. Additionally, you can use a soft brush to remove the insects from the plant's surface, but be gentle not to damage the stem or leaves.
