Tree of the month (PART 1) Kariskis (Albizia lebbekoides)

Physical Characteristics

The Kariskis tree grows to an average of 25 meters in height and 60 centimeters in diameter. Its leaves are bi-pinnate and have a glabrous rachis, with one gland above the base and two to seven sub-opposite pairs of pinnate, each measuring four to seven centimeters. The leaflets grow five to 25 pairs per pinna, which are opposite and sessile. They are asymmetrical, oblong, lanceolate, and measure 0.7-2 centimeters x 0.25-0.6 centimeters.

The inflorescences are peduncled or five fascicled, terminal, or axillary. The flowers are bisexual, sessile, and fragrant. Each flower has a white and green calyx. Strap-shaped dehiscent pods are dark brown when ripe, flat straight or slightly curved, oblong, and 8.5-15 centimeters long. The Number of seeds reaches up to 12 per pod.

Distribution

This species is very common and distributed from northern Luzon to southern Mindanao.

Method of Propagation

It is propagated by seeds only.

Contemporary Use

Kariskis wood is used for light construction and firewood. It is also used as a shade tree. The bark is frequently used in the manufacture of a fermented drink known as basi.

How to plant your kariskis seedling

Clear the area where you want to plant your seedling with unwanted weeds and debris. Make sure that a one-meter radius is kept free from other vegetation. Dig a plant hole with dimensions of at least 20 cm x 20 cm x 20 cm. Plant the seedling at proper depth. Root collar should be at level with or a little below the ground surface, with the seedling oriented upward. Fill the hole with top or garden soil and press soil firmly around the base of the seedling. In plantation-making, maintain a two-meter distance between seedlings if they are planted in a row of a three-meter distance from one strip to the next strip.

How to take care of your kariskis seedling

Remove grass and other unwanted vegetation and cultivate the soil around the base of the seedling (50-centimeter radius) once in every quarter for two to three years. Place mulch around the base of the seedling (maintaining the 50-centimeter radius and using cut grass, leaves, and other suitable materials as mulch base). Prune the branches at most 50 percent of the crown depth, preferably during dry season, and ensure that when pruning you do not injure the bark. Remove infected or infested vegetation nearby to stop plant diseases from spreading and contaminating your seedling. Monitor regularly the growth of the seedling for presence of pests and diseases.

Data about native tree species are featured by the Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. For comments and suggestions, e-mail Hannah. [email protected]. Learn about other native trees, visit www.rafi.org.ph/greenin-philippines.  (FREEMAN)