Contents
Description
Melocanna Arundina, commonly known as Bhamboosa or Muli Bamboo, is a plant species belonging to the family Poaceae. This bamboo species is native to India, Myanmar, and Thailand. It is a large bamboo that grows up to 20 meters tall and can have a diameter of up to 20 cm. Melocanna Arundina is an important plant for the local people as it has multiple uses such as for weaving and construction purposes. The plant also has culinary and medicinal uses.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Monocots |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Poaceae |
| Genus | Melocanna |
Appearance
Melocanna Arundina has a characteristic green stem with internodes that can be up to 50 cm long. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring up to 30 cm in length and 2 cm in width. The plant also has a thick culm wall that makes it a strong and durable species. Melocanna Arundina has a high growth rate and can reach up to 5 meters in a year under favorable conditions.
Care Guide
Water: Melocanna Arundina requires regular watering during the growing season, especially during the dry months. The plant should be watered deeply, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The plant requires fertilization during the growing season to promote healthy growth. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied every two months.
Soil: Melocanna Arundina thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The pH level of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soil.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight to grow and should be planted in an area with at least six hours of direct sunlight every day.
Hardiness Zones: Melocanna Arundina can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Melocanna Arundina is susceptible to fungal diseases such as anthracnose and leaf spot. The plant is also prone to infestations by caterpillars, scales, and mealybugs. Regular inspection and proper sanitation can help prevent pest and disease problems.
Habitat
Melocanna Arundina grows in tropical and subtropical regions and is commonly found in India, Myanmar, and Thailand. The plant grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and riverbanks. It prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the growth rate of Melocanna Arundina?
A: Melocanna Arundina has a high growth rate and can reach up to 5 meters in a year under favorable conditions.
Q: What are the uses of Melocanna Arundina?
A: Melocanna Arundina has multiple uses such as for weaving and construction purposes. The plant also has culinary and medicinal uses.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases of Melocanna Arundina?
A: Melocanna Arundina is susceptible to fungal diseases such as anthracnose and leaf spot. The plant is also prone to infestations by caterpillars, scales, and mealybugs.
Q: What is the suitable soil pH level for Melocanna Arundina?
A: The pH level of the soil should be between 6.0 and 7.5 for Melocanna Arundina.
Related Plants
- Phyllostachys aurea
- Bambusa multiplex
- Phyllostachys pubescens
- Dendrocalamus asper
References
- Mukherjee, S. (2013). Melocanna Benth. In: Bamboo Phylogeny and Diversity, pp. 221-228. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg.
- Nair, K. N. (1993). Bamboos of India: A compendium. Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi.
- Rao, V. R. (1989). Bamboo and rattan genetic resources and use: proceedings of the first INBAR-FAO international bamboo workshop. IDRC.
