Origin
Santalum pyrularium Gray var. sphaerolithos Skottsberg, commonly known as the Ball-fruit Sandalwood, is a plant species native to the Juan Fernández Islands, located off the coast of Chile in South America. It is one of the key sandalwood species found in the region.
Common Names
Besides Ball-fruit Sandalwood, this plant species is also referred to as Boldo Hembra, Chilean Sandalwood, Fernandian Sandalwood, Hembra, and Palo Santo. Across South America, this plant is also popularly known for its aromatic properties, contributing to its other name, the Holy Wood.
Uses
The Ball-fruit Sandalwood has traditionally been exploited for its extensive commercial and medicinal uses. The oil extracted from its roots and the bark contains precious aromatic compounds, which are used in manufacturing perfumes, soaps, and cosmetics. This variety of sandalwood is also known to be a natural insect repellant. It is also used in aromatherapy as a mood-lifting and relaxing agent.
On the other hand, herbal practitioners from South America use the Ball-fruit Sandalwood extracts to treat a variety of ailments, including diarrhea and constipation, stomach aches, liver issues, and respiratory conditions. It also has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that promote healthy living.
General Appearance
The Ball-fruit Sandalwood tree is a small to medium-sized evergreen species that grows up to eight meters tall. It is characterized by its distinctive, heavenly scent, softly aromatic and at times balsamic. This plant has dense foliage, glossy and smooth leaves, and brownish bark. It produces fruits that are almost spherical, hence the name ball-fruit. The fruits are brown and have one to three seeds, prized for their oil-rich value.
Besides its aromatic and medically significant qualities, the elegant texture and vibrant colors of the leaves and bark make it a popular ornamental plant in landscaping and horticulture.
Light Requirements
Santalum pyrularium Gray var. sphaerolithos Skottsberg requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth conditions. It can tolerate some shade, but it may reduce its growth rate and overall health. It is essential to place the plant in a location where it can receive direct or indirect sunlight for several hours a day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Santalum pyrularium Gray var. sphaerolithos Skottsberg growth is between 20 to 28 degrees Celsius. The plant prefers warm and humid climates, making it a perfect addition for tropical and subtropical areas. Temperatures below 18 degrees Celsius can harm the plant, and it may not survive severe cold weather conditions.
Soil Requirements
Santalum pyrularium Gray var. sphaerolithos Skottsberg requires well-draining, fertile, and aerated soil. The plant can grow in a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it requires a soil pH range between 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth. The soil should have a good water retention capacity, but it should not become waterlogged. Adding compost or organic matter to the soil can help provide essential nutrients and improve its drainage capacity.
Cultivation Methods
Santalum pyrularium Gray var. sphaerolithos Skottsberg is a drought-tolerant plant that can thrive in various growing conditions. This plant prefers well-drained soil, and the ideal growing temperature ranges from 20°C to 35°C.
The propagation of Santalum pyrularium Gray var. sphaerolithos Skottsberg can be done by seeds or cuttings. When planting seeds, it is essential to soak them for 24 hours before sowing.
The growth of this plant can be enhanced by proper pruning, which encourages the growth of new branches and increases the yield of sandalwood.
Watering Needs
Santalum pyrularium Gray var. sphaerolithos Skottsberg is a drought-tolerant plant, and hence it does not require frequent watering. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can survive with less water.
Overwatering can cause root rot and adversely affect the growth of the plant. Therefore, it is crucial to water the plant only when the soil is dry at the root level.
Fertilization
Santalum pyrularium Gray var. sphaerolithos Skottsberg requires a specific type of fertilizer with an NPK ratio of approximately 10-10-10. Nitrogen is essential for plant growth and should be applied in small doses at regular intervals.
Phosphorus is vital for root and shoot development and remains in the soil for an extended period. Therefore, phosphorus-rich fertilizers should be added to the soil before planting.
Potassium is crucial for overall plant health and enhances the plant's ability to tolerate drought and disease. Therefore, it is recommended to use a fertilizer with a balanced NPK ratio.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for the growth and yield of Santalum pyrularium Gray var. sphaerolithos Skottsberg. Pruning should be done during the dormant season to encourage new branch growth.
It is essential to remove the dead or diseased branches and thin out the overcrowded branches to ensure proper sunlight and air circulation.
Regular pruning can also increase the yield of sandalwood, which is an essential part of this plant.
Propagation of Santalum pyrularium Gray var. sphaerolithos Skottsberg
Santalum pyrularium Gray var. sphaerolithos Skottsberg, commonly known as Ivory wood or Sandalwood tree, is a rare and slow-growing plant. Its propagation is done through both sexual and asexual methods.
Sexual Propagation
Santalum pyrularium can be propagated through seeds. The seeds are obtained from the plant's fruit, which takes up to a year to develop after pollination. The fruit matures and cracks open to reveal the seeds, which are then collected and cleaned. The cleaned seeds can be directly sown in the nursery beds.
It is essential to note that Santalum pyrularium has a low germination rate ranging from 20-35%. Dry storing the seeds for a few months can help increase the germination rate. The seeds that sink in water are the viable ones, and the floating ones must be discarded.
Asexual Propagation
Asexual propagation methods are primarily used to increase the propagation rate of Santalum pyrularium, which otherwise has a very slow growth rate. They include:
Stem Cuttings
Santalum pyrularium can be propagated by stem cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings of about 30-40 cm length with 3-4 nodes are collected from the mother plant. The lower leaves are removed, and the cutting is treated with rooting hormone before being planted in sand or a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings are covered with polythene bags to maintain a high humidity level, and care must be taken to prevent waterlogging.
Air-layering
Air-layering can also be used to propagate Santalum pyrularium. A branch of the mother plant is selected and a 2-3 inch cut is made. The cut is then wrapped with wet sphagnum moss and covered with a polythene bag. After a few months, roots will start to develop from the cut, and the new plant can be separated from the mother plant.
Both sexual and asexual propagation methods have their advantages and disadvantages. However, asexual propagation methods like stem cuttings and air-layering are preferred for the propagation of Santalum pyrularium as they result in plants with the same characteristics as the mother plant, and the plants mature faster.
Disease and Pest Management for Santalum pyrularium Gray var. sphaerolithos Skottsberg
Santalum pyrularium Gray var. sphaerolithos Skottsberg, commonly known as ivory nut tree, is susceptible to various diseases and pests. As a responsible gardener, it is essential to keep an eye on the plant to prevent any outbreak. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Phytophthora Root Rot: The roots of the plant get infected due to overwatering or poor drainage, leading to sudden wilting and yellowing of leaves. Preventing overwatering or providing proper soil drainage can reduce the risk of infection. Fungicides can also be applied to the plant roots, but it is advisable to consult a professional before doing so.
Fungal Leaf Spots: Spots on the leaves are caused by various types of fungi and are characterized by dark or light brown, circular lesions. Regularly remove all fallen leaves and infected plant debris to avoid any buildup and promote healthy foliage. Fungicides can be used, but again, professional guidance is recommended.
Pests
Ivory Nut Borer: The larvae of the beetle bore into the plant's wood and feed on it, causing damage to the roots and stems. Applying insecticides, keeping the plant debris-free and pruning off infected areas can help manage the pest.
Mites: These minuscule organisms attach themselves to the plant's leaves and suck out the sap, causing a yellow discoloration. Regularly spraying the plant with insecticidal soap and keeping the humidity low can deter the mites.
By keeping a watchful eye and regularly monitoring the plant for any signs of infection, any possible damage can be tackled promptly. Prompt attention to maintaining the plant's health can reduce the occurrence of disease and pest infestation.
