Overview
Dracontomelon dao (Blanco) Merr. & Rolfe, commonly known as the "New Guinea Mango" or "Tropical Apple," is a tree species that belongs to the family Anacardiaceae. It is primarily found in Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia, Philippines, and Papua New Guinea.
Description
The Dracontomelon dao tree can reach up to a height of 40 meters and has a straight, cylindrical trunk, which can grow up to 1.5 meters in diameter. The tree has a pyramidal canopy that spans 5 to 7 meters wide. It is also capable of producing irregularly shaped buttresses at its base, providing stability and support for the tree.
The bark of the tree is smooth when young but gradually becomes rough and scaly as it matures. Its leaves are pinnate, alternate, and composed of up to 13 leaflets. Each leaflet measures around 7 to 10 cm long, with a glossy green upper surface and a light green lower surface.
Dracontomelon dao also produces small white or yellowish flowers that are borne in clusters. The fruit of the tree is a large, fleshy drupe that resembles a small apple. The drupe measures around 2 to 3 cm in diameter and is typically yellow or green when unripe, eventually turning to bright red or orange when fully matured.
Uses
The fruit of Dracontomelon dao is widely used in Southeast Asian cuisine. It is commonly eaten raw or used to make juice, jams, and wine. The fruit is also used as a traditional medicine and is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.
The timber of the tree is in high demand due to its durability and resistance to termites and fungi. It is commonly used as a construction material for buildings, boats, and furniture. The bark of the tree is also used to make a red dye, while its sap is used to make a sweet syrup.
In addition to its practical uses, Dracontomelon dao also has cultural significance in Southeast Asian countries. Its leaves are used in traditional ceremonies and as decorations during festivals and special occasions.
Light Requirements
Dracontomelon dao thrives best in full sunlight and requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily to grow and develop properly. Insufficient light will lead to stunted growth and poor fruit production. In areas with intense sunshine, it is advisable to plant the tree in partial shade for the first few months to avoid heat damage.
Temperature Requirements
Dracontomelon dao is tropical and sub-tropical in nature and grows best in temperatures ranging between 20°C and 35°C. The tree is susceptible to frost damage and should, therefore, be sheltered from freezing temperatures. Dracontomelon dao grows best in areas with a well-defined dry season and annual rainfall ranging between 1000-2000mm.
Soil Requirements
Dracontomelon dao grows well in neutral to slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 5.5-7.5. The soil should be well-drained and rich in organic matter with a depth of at least 1.5 meters to accommodate the tree's extensive root system. The plant prefers soils that are deep, fertile, and sandy loam or clay loam. Dracontomelon dao thrives in areas with moderate to high rainfall and plenty of humidity.
Cultivation of Dracontomelon dao
Dracontomelon dao is a tropical tree that grows best in warm and humid climates. It is recommended to cultivate this plant in areas with well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter.
When planting Dracontomelon dao, ensure that the site receives full sun exposure and is protected from strong winds. The plant can grow up to 30 meters high, so it is important to keep enough space between trees when planting.
Watering Needs
Dracontomelon dao requires regular watering to ensure healthy growth. The water needs of the plant are high, especially during the dry season, so ensure to provide enough water to prevent wilting.
However, do not overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot and stunted growth. Irrigation is essential for trees that are in their early growth stages, but ensure to reduce watering as the tree starts to mature.
Fertilization
Dracontomelon dao requires a regular supply of nutrients to ensure optimal growth and yield. Consider using organic fertilizers such as manure, compost, or other natural sources of nutrients that will not affect the surrounding environment or people who consume the plant's fruits.
It is recommended to apply fertilizers during the rainy season because the rainfall will help to distribute the nutrients evenly. Apply fertilizers at least twice a year, preferably during the early stages of growth and just before the flowering season.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape of Dracontomelon dao and promoting healthy growth. Regular pruning will help to remove dead or damaged branches, promote the growth of new shoots, and improve the tree's overall structure.
Pruning should be carried out during the plant's dormant season, which is usually during the dry season. It is advisable to remove the lower branches to allow more light to penetrate through the canopy and improve air circulation. Remember to use clean and sharp pruning tools to prevent damage to the tree.
Propagation of Dracontomelon dao (Blanco) Merr. & Rolfe
Dracontomelon dao (Blanco) Merr. & Rolfe can be propagated through both sexual and asexual means.
Sexual Propagation:
The plant can be propagated through seed germination. The seeds can be collected from mature fruit and should be sown immediately. The seeds can be sown in nursery beds or pots filled with well-draining soil. The germination time can vary from a few weeks to a few months depending on the conditions provided. The seedlings can be transplanted to individual pots or directly to the field after they reach a certain height and have developed sufficient root systems.
Asexual Propagation:
The plant can be propagated through vegetative means like stem cuttings, air-layering, and grafting.
Stem cuttings can be taken from young, mature wood that is around half an inch in diameter. The cuttings should be around 4-6 inches long, with the lower leaves removed. The cuttings can be dipped in rooting hormones and planted in well-draining soil. They should be kept in a humid, shaded area until they start to develop roots.
Air-layering can be done by selecting a healthy branch and wounding it by removing a section of bark. The wound can be covered with rooting hormone and a moist medium like sphagnum moss or peat moss. After some time, roots start to develop at the wounded area. The rooted portion can be cut off and planted in a pot or directly in the ground.
Grafting can be done by selecting a rootstock of a closely related species or variety that is compatible with Dracontomelon dao (Blanco) Merr. & Rolfe. The rootstock should be sown and grown to a certain height, and then a scion can be taken from a mature plant of the desired variety. The scion should be grafted onto the rootstock using appropriate techniques to ensure proper healing and growth.
Disease Management
Dracontomelon dao is generally a disease-resistant plant, but it may get infected by various fungal and bacterial diseases. Anthracnose, leaf spots, and stem blight are some of the common diseases that cause damage to this plant.
Anthracnose causes circular, tan to brown-colored spots on leaves and stems. Leaf spots, caused by the fungus Alternaria, appear as small, circular, dark spots on the leaves and gradually enlarge to form irregular brown patches. Stem blight causes dark brown to black lesions on the stem that can girdle it.
The management of these diseases includes removing the infected plant debris and providing proper ventilation to the plant. Application of copper-based fungicide and biological control agents like Trichoderma harzianum can control these diseases.
Pest Management
Dracontomelon dao is susceptible to pests like mealybugs, scales, and aphids. These pests damage the foliage of the plant by feeding on the sap and sucking the juices from the leaves.
Mealybugs and scales appear as white, cottony masses on the leaves and trunk of the plant. Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on the leaves and stems of the plant.
Pest management includes removing the infected plant parts and applying insecticides like imidacloprid, neem oil, or soap water to control the pests. Biological control agents like ladybugs and lacewings can also be used to control the aphids and scales.
