Contents
Description
Psydrax Odorata, also known as Bunga Gatal, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. The plant has been traditionally used in folk medicine to treat various ailments, including fever, headache, and skin diseases.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya||————|————–|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Magnoliophyta|| Class| Magnoliopsida|| Order| Gentianales|| Family| Rubiaceae|| Genus| Psydrax|| Species| Odorata|
Appearance
Psydrax Odorata can grow up to 10 meters tall, but it is usually smaller in cultivation. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and elliptical, measuring around 5-12 cm long and 2-6 cm wide. It produces small, fragrant, yellowish-white flowers that are around 5 mm in diameter. The fruit is a small, round drupe that turns black when ripe.
Care Guide
Psydrax Odorata is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in different growing conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: Psydrax Odorata prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water the plant regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season.- Soil: Psydrax Odorata can grow in a variety of soils, but it prefers loamy or sandy soils that are rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant can tolerate partial shade to full sun, but it grows best in bright, indirect light.- Hardiness Zones: Psydrax Odorata is hardy in USDA zones 10-12.
Common Pests & Diseases
Psydrax Odorata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by some common issues, such as:- Mealybugs: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. Use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control mealybugs.- Scale insects: These pests form hard, brown, waxy shells on the plant’s stem and leaves. They can also suck the plant’s sap and cause yellowing and wilting. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to eliminate scale insects.- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown or black spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to defoliation. Remove the affected leaves and improve air circulation to prevent leaf spot.
Habitat
Psydrax Odorata is commonly found in lowland forests, but it can also grow in disturbed areas, such as roadsides, riverbanks, and agricultural lands. It prefers warm and humid environments and can tolerate occasional drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Psydrax Odorata suitable for indoor growing?
A: Yes, Psydrax Odorata can be grown indoors as long as it receives enough bright, indirect light.
Q: Can Psydrax Odorata be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Psydrax Odorata can be easily propagated from stem cuttings or seeds.
Q: Does Psydrax Odorata have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, Psydrax Odorata is traditionally used in folk medicine to treat fever, headache, and skin diseases. However, more research is needed to confirm its therapeutic benefits.
Q: How often should I prune Psydrax Odorata?
A: Prune Psydrax Odorata as needed to maintain its shape and size. You can also remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to promote new growth.
Related Plants
– Psychotria nervosa- Mussaenda philippica- Gardenia jasminoides- Ixora coccinea- Nerium oleander
References
– “Psydrax odorata (L.) Bridson.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed August 27, 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:75659-1.- “Psydrax odorata.” Floridata. Accessed August 27, 2021. https://floridata.com/plant/1629.- “Psydrax odorata.” Useful Tropical Plants. Accessed August 27, 2021. https://uses.plantnet-project.org/en/Psydrax_odorata_(PROSEA).
