Origin
Cheirodendron trigynum (Gaud.) Heller ssp. helleri (Sherff) Lowry, commonly known as heller's mountain-witch, is a native shrub species in Hawaii. It is endemic to the islands of Kaua?i, Maui, and Moloka?i.
Common Names
The common names attributed to Cheirodendron trigynum (Gaud.) Heller ssp. helleri (Sherff) Lowry include heller's mountain-witch, k?lea, and ha?iwale.
Uses
There are no known medicinal or cultural uses of Cheirodendron trigynum (Gaud.) Heller ssp. helleri (Sherff) Lowry. However, it plays an important role in sustaining the Hawaiian ecosystem as it provides habitat for the native birds and insects.
General Appearance
Cheirodendron trigynum (Gaud.) Heller ssp. helleri (Sherff) Lowry is a compact shrub species that grows up to 3m tall. It has a branching stem and the leaves are dark green, glossy, and have an oval shape. The plant produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that bloom in clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruit is a small, shiny, and black drupe that contains one or two seeds.
Light Requirements
Cheirodendron trigynum ssp. helleri thrives in partial to full shade. It should be planted where it can get some sunlight but is sheltered from intense direct light. It can also grow in full shade but may produce fewer and smaller leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Cheirodendron trigynum ssp. helleri is between 60°F to 70°F. This plant prefers cool and moist environments, making it most commonly found at elevations between 2,000 to 3,000 feet above sea level in the Hawaiian Islands.
Soil Requirements
Cheirodendron trigynum ssp. helleri grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers soil that is moist but not waterlogged. This plant is adapted to growing on volcanic soils with a pH range of 4.5 to 5.5. In cultivation, it can also grow in a mix of peat, perlite, and pine bark.
Cultivation Methods
Cheirodendron trigynum (Gaud.) Heller ssp. helleri (Sherff) Lowry is a slow-growing evergreen shrub that thrives in tropical forests. It prefers shaded areas with cool, moist soil that is rich in organic matter. When planting, make sure to dig a hole double the size of the root ball, backfill with compost, and pack the soil firmly around the plant.
Watering Needs
This plant needs regular watering, especially during the dry season. Aim to provide a consistent supply of moisture to the soil without waterlogging the roots. The frequency of watering depends on the local climate, humidity, and soil moisture retention capacity. It is best to water the plants early in the day so that they have time to absorb the water throughout the day.
Fertilization
For optimal growth, Cheirodendron trigynum (Gaud.) Heller ssp. helleri (Sherff) Lowry requires regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer containing the essential macronutrients and micronutrients. It is best to apply organic fertilizers such as compost, worm castings, and well-rotted manure during the spring and early summer months. Avoid over-fertilizing as this can lead to lush foliage growth but reduce flowering and fruiting.
Pruning
Cheirodendron trigynum (Gaud.) Heller ssp. helleri (Sherff) Lowry requires minimal pruning to maintain its compact shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, ideally late winter or early spring, when the plant is not actively growing. Use sterile pruning equipment and remove dead, broken, or diseased branches. Prune the tips of the branches to encourage lateral growth and shape the plant to the desired form.
Propagation of Cheirodendron trigynum ssp. helleri
There are three common methods to propagate Cheirodendron trigynum ssp. helleri: seed propagation, cutting propagation, and division propagation. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages, and the choice depends on the grower's goals and expertise.
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method to propagate Cheirodendron trigynum ssp. helleri in the wild. The plant produces small black berries that contain one or two seeds each. The seeds have a hard coat and a germination rate of around 50%. The seeds should be planted in a well-drained, nutrient-rich soil that mimics the plant's natural habitat. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Seedlings should be transplanted to their permanent location after 1-2 years.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is a common method to propagate Cheirodendron trigynum ssp. helleri in nurseries. The plant can be propagated from softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from healthy, vigorous plants in the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-drained, nutrient-rich soil mix. It is important to keep the soil moist and warm (around 20°C). The cuttings should form roots in 4-6 weeks and can be transplanted to their final location after 1-2 years.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is a method to propagate mature Cheirodendron trigynum ssp. helleri plants. The plant's root ball should be divided into several sections with a sharp, clean knife or pruning shears. Each section should have enough roots and shoots to survive on its own. The sections should be planted in a well-drained, nutrient-rich soil mix. It is essential to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. The newly planted sections should be monitored for signs of stress or disease and given time to establish before being transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease Management for Cheirodendron Trigynum (Gaud.) Heller ssp. Helleri (Sherff) Lowry
There are various diseases that can affect your Cheirodendron Trigynum (Gaud.) Heller ssp. Helleri (Sherff) Lowry plant, including:
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that infects the roots of the plant, leading to poor growth and discoloration of leaves. Avoid overwatering to prevent the soil from becoming waterlogged, which can create ideal conditions for fungal growth.
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by a fungus that leads to the development of circular spots on leaves. Avoid overhead watering and instead water at the base of the plant to prevent the spread of spores.
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by a fungus and leads to the development of brown spots on leaves and stems. Remove and destroy infected plant parts to prevent the spread of the disease.
- Powdery Mildew: This disease is caused by a fungus and leads to the development of a white, powdery substance on leaves and stems. Keep the surrounding area clean and remove any infected plant parts to prevent the spread of spores.
Pest Management for Cheirodendron Trigynum (Gaud.) Heller ssp. Helleri (Sherff) Lowry
There are several pests that may attack your plant, including:
- Mealybugs: These pests are small, white insects that suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and yellowed foliage. Use a strong stream of water to remove them or apply insecticidal soap.
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can be green, yellow, or black and also suck sap from the plant. Use a strong stream of water to remove them or apply insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can be hard to spot but can cause leaves to develop white, yellow, or bronze speckling. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Scale Insects: These brown or black insects can be found on stems and leaves and suck sap from the plant. Use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them or apply insecticidal soap.
