Overview of Chamaesyce celastroides (Boiss.) Croizat & Deg. var. nelsonii (St. John) Raju & Rao
Chamaesyce celastroides (Boiss.) Croizat & Deg. var. nelsonii (St. John) Raju & Rao, commonly referred to as Nelson's spurge, is a flowering perennial plant belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. This plant is a subspecies of the Chamaesyce celastroides species, which is native to Hawaii and has a variety of medicinal properties. Nelson's spurge, on the other hand, is endemic to the island of Kauai and has unique characteristics that set it apart from its close relatives.
Appearance of Chamaesyce celastroides (Boiss.) Croizat & Deg. var. nelsonii (St. John) Raju & Rao
Nelson's spurge is a low-growing plant that typically reaches around half a meter in height. The stems of the plant are green and glabrous and contain latex. The plant's leaves are small, green, and elliptic in shape, measuring 3-13 mm in length and 1-2.5 mm in width. This plant produces tiny, pale yellow flowers that are typically 1-2 mm wide and arranged in clusters. The fruit produced by Nelson's spurge is a small capsule that bursts open to release its seeds.
Uses of Chamaesyce celastroides (Boiss.) Croizat & Deg. var. nelsonii (St. John) Raju & Rao
Nelson's spurge has been used for a variety of medicinal purposes by indigenous Hawaiian practitioners. The plant's latex was traditionally used as a treatment for skin conditions such as cuts, blisters, and warts. It was also believed to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties and was used to alleviate headaches and other forms of pain. Today, the plant is primarily used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance and low-maintenance requirements. Nelson's spurge is also useful for erosion control and landscaping.
Light Requirements
Chamaesyce celastroides var. nelsonii requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can result in leggy growth and decreased flowering. Therefore, it is best to plant this species in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to tropical regions and requires warm temperatures to thrive. It grows best in areas where the average temperature is above 60°F, but can tolerate temperatures up to 100°F. It is also tolerant of drought and can survive in areas with low humidity.
Soil Requirements
Chamaesyce celastroides var. nelsonii prefers well-draining, sandy soil. It can also grow in soils with low fertility and pH levels between 5.5 and 7.5. However, care should be taken to avoid areas with heavy clay soils or soils that are prone to waterlogging. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve its structure and fertility, which can promote healthy plant growth.
Cultivation
Chamaesyce celastroides var. nelsonii is a succulent plant that is relatively easy to cultivate. It can be propagated through cuttings or seeds. For optimal growth, it is best to plant it in a well-draining potting mix that contains perlite or sand.
The plant thrives in bright, indirect light and can tolerate full sun. It is best to acclimate the plant gradually to direct sunlight if it is moved from a shaded area. The ideal temperature for Chamaesyce celastroides var. nelsonii is between 60-85°F (15-29°C), and it can tolerate a range of humidity levels.
When planting in the ground, ensure it is in well-draining soil with organic matter that holds moisture but doesn't become waterlogged. A slightly acidic to neutral soil pH of 6.0-7.5 is ideal.
Watering Needs
Chamaesyce celastroides var. nelsonii is a drought-tolerant plant. It can withstand long periods without water but prefers soil that is slightly moist to the touch. Watering should be done thoroughly until excess water drains out of the bottom of the pot or soil. During colder months, reduce watering to prevent root rot.
When planted in the ground, the frequency of watering should be reduced to avoid overwatering.
Fertilization
Chamaesyce celastroides var. nelsonii doesn't require frequent fertilization. It only needs a light application of fertilizer in the spring to promote new growth. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 7-9-5.
When planted in the ground, a layer of compost added in the spring will provide enough nutrients for the plant to grow.
Pruning
Pruning Chamaesyce celastroides var. nelsonii is not necessary, but it can help maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged leaves and stems. It is best to prune the plant in the early spring before new growth begins.
When pruning, use a sharp and clean pair of pruning shears to make a clean cut without damaging the plant. It is also best to wear gloves as the plant's sap can cause skin irritation.
Propagation of Chamaesyce celastroides var. nelsonii
Chamaesyce celastroides var. nelsonii is a succulent plant that is easy to propagate vegetatively. The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings or division of offsets.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
The stem cuttings of the plant must be taken during the active growing season of the plant. The cuttings should be taken from healthy and disease-free plants. The stem cuttings should be at least six inches long and should have several leaves. The leaves should be removed from the lower portion of the stem, leaving only one or two leaves near the tip.
The stem cuttings should be allowed to dry for a day or two before planting. The cuttings can be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a warm and bright location. The soil should be lightly moistened until roots start to develop, after which regular watering can be resumed.
Propagation by Division of Offsets
Chamaesyce celastroides var. nelsonii produces offsets around the base of the plant. These offsets can be carefully removed and replanted in a well-draining potting mix. The offset should have sufficient roots and leaves to support itself.
After replanting, the newly divided plants should be kept in a warm and bright location until they are established and actively growing. The soil should be lightly moistened until roots start to develop, after which regular watering can be resumed.
Disease Management
Chamaesyce celastroides (Boiss.) Croizat & Deg. var. nelsonii (St. John) Raju & Rao is generally a healthy plant, but it can be affected by certain diseases if proper care is not taken.
The most common disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew. It is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems. To manage powdery mildew, we recommend spraying the plant with a fungicide containing neem oil or sulfur. Ensure that you follow the manufacturer's instructions while using the fungicide.
Root rot is another disease that can affect this plant. It is caused by overwatering and poor soil drainage. To manage root rot, it is crucial to ensure that the plant is not overwatered, and there is adequate drainage. If you notice symptoms of root rot, such as yellowing and wilting leaves, you should trim away any affected parts of the plant and repot it in fresh soil.
Pest Management
Just like numerous other plants, Chamaesyce celastroides (Boiss.) Croizat & Deg. var. nelsonii (St. John) Raju & Rao can also be affected by certain pests
The most common pest that affects this plant is the spider mite. It is a tiny pest that feeds on the underside of leaves, causing stippling, yellowing, and eventually leaf drop. To manage spider mites, we suggest spraying the plant with a mix of 1 teaspoon of dish soap and 1 quart of water. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to keep spider mites at bay.
The mealybug is another pest that can affect this plant. It appears as fuzzy white masses on the stems, leaves, and flowers. To manage mealybugs, you can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol or insecticidal soap. Ensure that you treat all affected parts of the plant.
Note: It is recommended that you inspect your plant regularly to catch any signs of diseases or pests early. This way, you can manage them before they become a significant problem.
