Overview
Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev. is a flowering plant belonging to the family Dilleniaceae. It is a tropical tree commonly found in various countries in Southeast Asia and Australia. The plant has several names such as the large-leaved tetracera, ironwood, or cahun.
Appearance
The Tetracera macrophylla is a large evergreen tree that can grow up to 20 meters in height. It has large, glossy, and leathery leaves that are elliptical or lanceolate-shaped, measuring up to 19 cm in length and 8 cm in width. The tree produces clusters of pale white or pale green flowers, followed by small fruit that turns orange when ripe.
Uses
The Tetracera macrophylla has several uses in traditional medicine. Its roots, bark, leaves, and fruits contain phytochemicals that possess anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. The bark can be boiled and used to treat fever, diarrhea, and stomach ache. The leaves are used to treat skin diseases such as eczema. The fruit and leaves are also used in Ayurvedic medicine as a tonic and astringent.
The wood of Tetracera macrophylla is hard, strong, and durable, making it a preferred material for construction and furniture making. The wood is also used to produce charcoal and firewood.
The tree's flowers attract bees and butterflies, contributing to pollination and biodiversity in the ecosystem.
Cultivation
The Tetracera macrophylla is propagated through seeds. The tree prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location. It is recommended to water the tree regularly to prevent drought stress. The plant is suitable for tropical and subtropical climates.
In conclusion, Tetracera macrophylla is a versatile plant with several medicinal and commercial uses. Its large, glossy, and leathery foliage makes it an attractive ornamental plant for horticultural enthusiasts.
Light Requirements
Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev. requires bright, indirect light. It should not be exposed to direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. In low light conditions, the plant may become leggy and lose its foliage. Therefore, it is best to place the plant in a spot where it can receive bright, filtered light throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in a temperature range of 18-25°C. It cannot tolerate extreme temperatures and should be kept away from cold drafts and hot radiators. The plant needs a moderate to high level of humidity to thrive. It is best to place it in a room with a humidifier or set it on a tray filled with pebbles and water to increase the surrounding moisture.
Soil Requirements
It is crucial to provide the plant with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range between 6.0 and 6.5. A good potting mix for Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev. consists of peat moss, perlite, and sand in equal parts. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, leading to the death of the plant.
Cultivation of Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev.
Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev. is a tropical plant that is native to Central and South America. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant and can reach heights of up to 30 feet. The plant requires warm temperatures and a lot of sunlight to grow properly.
The plant can be grown in a pot or in the ground. If grown in a pot, it is recommended to use a pot with drainage holes and well-draining soil. If grown in the ground, the soil should be amended with compost or organic matter to provide the plant with the necessary nutrients. The plant prefers a slightly acidic soil pH of around 5.5-6.5.
Watering Needs of Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev.
Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev. requires regular watering to thrive. The plant should be watered deeply but not too frequently. The soil should be allowed to partially dry out between watering, but it should never be allowed to completely dry out. The amount of water required will depend on the climate and the size of the plant.
During the growing season, the plant may require more frequent watering. In the winter months, the plant may require less frequent watering. It is important to monitor the soil moisture and adjust watering accordingly.
Fertilization of Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev.
Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev. benefits from regular fertilization. A balanced fertilizer can be applied every 2-3 months during the growing season. The fertilizer should be applied according to the instructions on the package.
Organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, can also be used to provide the plant with the necessary nutrients. These can be applied around the base of the plant and worked into the soil.
Pruning of Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev.
Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev. may require occasional pruning to maintain its shape and size. Pruning can be done in early spring or after the flowering season has ended. The plant should be pruned back to a healthy bud or lateral branch to promote new growth.
Dead or diseased branches should be removed as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease. It is important to use clean pruning tools to prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev.
Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev., commonly known as the forest bell bush or the large-leaved tetracera, is a beautiful tropical plant commonly found in the African region. The plant produces sweet-scented white and yellow flowers, which are followed by round, green seed pods.
Propagation Methods
The forest bell bush can be propagated through two main methods, namely seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
The seeds of Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev. can be obtained from the mature seed pods. The seeds should be soaked in water for about 24 hours to soften the outer layer before planting.
Fill a seed tray with well-draining soil and sprinkle the seeds on the soil surface. Do not bury the seeds, as they require light to germinate. Water lightly and cover the seed tray with a clear plastic bag or cling wrap to keep the soil moist and warm. Place the seed tray in a warm, bright location, but away from direct sunlight.
The seeds usually take about 2-3 weeks to germinate, after which the plastic cover can be removed. Once the seedlings have grown to about 10 cm in height, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Stem cuttings are another effective method of propagating Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev. Cut a healthy stem from the parent plant, ensuring that it is about 20cm in length and has at least 2-3 nodes. Remove the lower leaves from the stem, leaving only the top two leaves.
Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder, and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Water the cutting and cover it with a clear plastic bag or cling wrap to keep the soil moist and encourage rooting. Place the cutting in a warm, bright location, but away from direct sunlight.
The cutting should develop roots in about 4-6 weeks, after which the plastic cover can be removed. Once the cutting has developed a strong root system, it can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
With the right care and attention, both propagation methods can yield healthy and beautiful Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev. plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev.
Tetracera macrophylla A.Chev., commonly known as the white sword tree, is a species native to tropical rainforests in Central and South America. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to several diseases and pests that can negatively impact plant growth and development. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect the Tetracera macrophylla plant and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Phytophthora root rot: Phytophthora root rot is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects the roots of the Tetracera macrophylla plant. Symptoms include discoloration and wilting of the leaves, and stunted growth. To manage this disease, one should avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage of the soil. Fungicides can also be applied to the soil to prevent fungal growth.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes dark spots on leaves, stem cankers, and defoliation. To manage this disease, one should prune infected branches, remove fallen leaves, and apply fungicides to the plant canopy.
Rust: Rust is a fungal disease that causes yellow or orange spots on leaves, which eventually turn brown and fall off. To manage this disease, one should prune infected branches, remove fallen leaves, and apply fungicides to the plant canopy.
Pests
Scale insects: Scale insects are tiny insects that attach themselves to the Tetracera macrophylla plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage these pests, one should manually remove them using a soft brush or cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Insecticides can also be applied to the plant to control the population of scale insects.
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the Tetracera macrophylla plant, causing yellowing and wilting of the foliage. To manage aphids, one should prune infected branches, remove fallen leaves, and apply insecticides to the plant.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of various moth and butterfly species that feed on the leaves of the Tetracera macrophylla plant, causing defoliation. To manage caterpillars, one should remove them manually or apply insecticides to the plant.
In conclusion, with proper disease and pest management, the Tetracera macrophylla plant can thrive and remain healthy, providing its beautiful white flower blooms.
