Origin
Chamaesyce celastroides (Boiss.) Croizat & Deg. var. laehiensis (O.& I. Deg. & Sherff) Koutnik, commonly known as the Laehe's spurge, is a species of spurge that is native to the Hawaiian Islands. It is a part of the Euphorbiaceae family and is an endemic plant of Hawaii.
Common Names
The Laehe's spurge is known by several different names, including Hawaiian sandmat, leeward sandmat, sand spur, and Hoawa.
Uses
The Laehe's spurge is not commonly used for medicinal purposes, although some cultures have historically used it to treat skin conditions. The plant is more frequently used for landscaping, as it is a low-growing, drought-tolerant plant that is well-suited for gardens and lawns. It can also be used for erosion control and can serve as an excellent groundcover.
General Appearance
Chamaesyce celastroides var. laehiensis is a small herbaceous plant that typically reaches a height of around 15 centimeters. It has small green leaves that are oval-shaped and grow in an opposite pattern along the stem. The plant produces small green or reddish flowers that bloom in clusters at the ends of the stems. The Laehe's spurge is a hardy plant that can tolerate a variety of growing conditions, including sandy soil, high winds, and drought.
Light Requirements
Chamaesyce celastroides var. laehiensis typically prefers full sun exposure or partial shade. In their natural habitat, they grow in areas with bright sunlight and sometimes in partial shade, so it is important to provide them with ample access to the sun and shade to acclimate accordingly.
Temperature Requirements
The growing season for Chamaesyce celastroides var. laehiensis is typically hot and dry, so temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal. However, they can also tolerate colder temperatures as long as they don't fall below freezing.
Soil Requirements
Chamaesyce celastroides var. laehiensis prefers well-draining soils with a pH level between 6.5 and 7.5. Sandy or loamy soils that are well-aerated are best for their growth. They can also tolerate soils with low fertility, but adding organic matter can be beneficial in enhancing soil health.
Cultivation
The Chamaesyce celastroides (Boiss.) Croizat & Deg. var. laehiensis (O.& I. Deg. & Sherff) Koutnik is a succulent plant that thrives in sandy or gravelly soils. It grows best in full sun and in areas with good drainage. The plant needs plenty of sunlight, and it is important to ensure it receives at least six hours of direct sunlight every day. The plant is adapted to arid environments and can withstand hot temperatures.
Watering Needs
Chamaesyce celastroides (Boiss.) Croizat & Deg. var. laehiensis (O.& I. Deg. & Sherff) Koutnik is tolerant of drought conditions and is prone to rot if overwatered. It needs infrequent, deep watering to maintain hydration levels. The best way to water the plant is to wait until the soil's top inch feels dry before watering it thoroughly. In winter, reduce watering as the plant goes dormant.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential for Chamaesyce celastroides (Boiss.) Croizat & Deg. var. laehiensis (O.& I. Deg. & Sherff) Koutnik. The plant should be fertilized during the growing period from spring to fall. Use phosphorus-rich fertilizer and apply it every two weeks at half the recommended strength. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant as it may cause damage.
Pruning
Chamaesyce celastroides (Boiss.) Croizat & Deg. var. laehiensis (O.& I. Deg. & Sherff) Koutnik requires minimal pruning only to remove any dead or unhealthy growth. Use sterilized pruning tool to avoid transmitting infections. In summer, you may want to prune some of the stems to shape or control the plant's size. Avoid pruning into the woody part of the plant, as it may take a longer time for the plant to regenerate.
Propagation of Chamaesyce celastroides var. laehiensis
Chamaesyce celastroides var. laehiensis can be propagated through both seed and vegetative methods.
Propagation by Seed
This plant produces small, round seeds that can be collected after the plant has finished flowering. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until germination occurs, which typically takes around 1-2 weeks. Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be kept in a bright location and gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before being transplanted into their final growing position.
Propagation by Division
Chamaesyce celastroides var. laehiensis grows in clumps, which can be divided to create new plants. To do this, carefully dig up the clump and use a sharp, sterile tool to divide it into smaller sections. Each section should have some roots attached, and it should be planted into a well-draining potting mix. Water the new plants regularly and keep them in a bright location until they are established.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
This plant can also be propagated by taking stem cuttings. This method works best in the spring or early summer, when the plant is actively growing. Select a healthy stem and use a sharp, sterile tool to cut a section that is around 10cm in length. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting into a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist until roots form, which typically takes around 2-3 weeks. Once the cutting has established roots, it can be transplanted into its final growing position and treated as a mature plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Chamaesyce celastroides
Chamaesyce celastroides is a hardy plant, but like all plants, it is vulnerable to various diseases and pests. Here are some common problems that might affect the plant and tips on how to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal and bacterial diseases can infect Chamaesyce celastroides, causing leaf spots, wilting, and plant death. To manage these diseases, remove infected plant material and dispose of it away from the garden. Ensure the plant is grown in soil with good drainage and avoid over-watering, as excess moisture can create an environment for fungal growth.
Moreover, applying a copper-based fungicide may be helpful in preventing the disease from spreading. However, ensure proper air circulation and avoid overhead watering, as wet foliage can lead to an increase in fungal growth.
Pests
Chamaesyce celastroides can attract several pests, such as spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. These pests suck the sap from the plant, which can lead to the plant's decline.
To manage these pests, remove infested plant parts and dispose of them away from the garden. Regular inspection of plants and prompt removal of infested parts from the healthy parts can avoid expensive treatments. Chemical and organic pesticides can also be effective in managing pests, but please ensure to follow the instructions carefully.
Using companion plants such as basil, lavender, or marigold besides Chamaesyce celastroides can prevent insect infestations by deterring pests from coming near the plant.
By implementing these management strategies and being vigilant of the signs of pest and disease infestation, we can preserve and care for Chamaesyce celastroides.
