Overview of Claoxylon sandwicense var. glabrescens
Claoxylon sandwicense var. glabrescens, also known as alahee or Hawaiian poppy, is a plant species that is endemic to Hawaii. It belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae and is a subspecies of Claoxylon sandwicense.
Appearance of Claoxylon sandwicense var. glabrescens
Alahee is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 6 meters in height. Its leaves are glossy green and usually measure about 4-7 centimeters in length. The leaves are also oblong and have a pointed tip. The plant also produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are yellow-green in color and have a sweet fragrance.
Common Names of Claoxylon sandwicense var. glabrescens
Claoxylon sandwicense var. glabrescens is known by several common names in Hawaii, including alahee, Hawaiian poppy, and uhiuhi. In some parts of the world, it is also known as the sandwicense cobbler's peg.
Uses of Claoxylon sandwicense var. glabrescens
The alahee plant has several traditional medicinal uses in Hawaii. It is used to treat cuts, bruises, and other minor injuries. The sap of the plant is also used to treat earaches and toothaches. In addition, the plant has cultural and spiritual significance for the indigenous people of Hawaii. It is believed to be a guardian spirit that protects the land and the people.
The plant is also used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes due to its attractive foliage and small size. However, it is important to note that the plant is not commonly found in nurseries and may be difficult to obtain.
Light Requirements
Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff requires full sunlight exposure for optimal growth and development. This plant species thrives in bright light conditions and may suffer from stunted growth and yellowing leaves in shady areas.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the growth of Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff is between 18°C to 27°C. This plant species cannot tolerate extreme temperatures, both hot and cold. Exposure to high temperatures can cause wilting and leaf drop.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soils with pH levels ranging from 6.0 to 7.0 are suitable for the growth of Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff. This plant species thrives in soils that are rich in organic matter and have good drainage. It is important to avoid waterlogging as it may lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff prefers well-draining, acidic soil with good moisture retention. It grows well in full sun to partial shade, but in hot climates, it may need some protection from the sun during the hottest parts of the day. The plant can also be grown in pots or containers indoors or outdoors provided it has access to adequate sunlight and temperature.
Watering Needs
Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff prefers evenly moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly and deeply during the growing season, especially during dry spells. However, the plant should not be allowed to sit in waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot. In the winter, reduce the frequency of watering and allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions.
Fertilization
Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff responds well to regular feeding during its active growing period. Use a high-quality, balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season, reducing the frequency to once a month during the winter.
Pruning
Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff should be pruned during the dormant season, which is typically in late winter or early spring. The pruning should focus on removing any damaged or dead branches first. Next, remove any crossing, rubbing, or inward-growing branches so that the plant has a strong, open framework. Lastly, if the plant is getting too large, it can be pruned back to a smaller size to promote bushier growth and flowering.
Propagation of Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff
Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff, also known as Wiliwili, is a small to medium-sized tree that is native to Hawaii. It is a popular tree for landscaping and has garnered attention due to its cultural significance. Propagation of this plant can be done through a variety of methods, including seeds, stem cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation by Seeds
Propagation by seeds is the most common method for propagating Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff. Seeds can be collected from mature fruits and should be sown immediately after they are harvested. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until they germinate, which can take up to three weeks. Seedlings should be transplanted to larger containers once they have a few sets of true leaves.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is another method for propagating Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff. Cuttings should be taken from mature stems during the growing season. The cutting should be about four to six inches long and should be stripped of leaves except for the top two to three leaves. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and warm until they form roots, which can take up to eight weeks. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted to larger containers.
Propagation by Air Layering
Propagation by air layering is a method for propagating Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff that can take longer but usually results in a larger, more established plant. This method involves making a small cut in the bark of a mature stem and wrapping it with damp sphagnum moss or soil mix. Once roots have formed, the stem can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted to its own container.
Overall, propagation of Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff can be accomplished with a little patience and care. Seeds, stem cuttings, and air layering are all effective methods for increasing the number of these unique and culturally significant trees.
Disease Management
Like other plants, Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff is susceptible to various diseases. Here are some of the most common diseases that might affect the plant:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease appears as small, dark lesions on leaves and stems. Infected parts of the plant might drop prematurely. To manage anthracnose, it's essential to prune and dispose of the infected plant parts. Application of fungicides might also prove beneficial.
- Root Rot: The disease is caused by a fungus that affects the roots of the plant. The initial symptoms of the disease include discoloration and wilting of the leaves, followed by the plant's death. To control root rot, it's crucial to provide good drainage and ensure that the plant is not overwatered.
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the foliage of the plant. Infected leaves have a powdery white appearance. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overcrowding the plant, and maintain proper air circulation. Application of fungicides might also prove beneficial in controlling this disease.
- Bacterial Leaf Spot: The disease is characterized by the presence of water-soaked lesions on leaves. Infected leaves might become yellow and drop prematurely. To manage bacterial leaf spot, it's crucial to remove the infected plant parts and avoid overhead watering.
Pest Management
Here are some of the most common pests that might affect Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. glabrescens (Sherff) Sherff:
- Spider Mites: Spider mites often feed on the underside of leaves, resulting in stippling or discoloration on the foliage. To control spider mites, it's crucial to regularly mist the plant and avoid over-fertilization. Application of insecticidal soap might also prove beneficial in controlling spider mites.
- Scale Insects: These insects attach themselves to the stem and leaves of the plant, secreting a waxy coating that makes them look like a part of the plant. To control scale insects, it's essential to prune and dispose of the infected plant parts and apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to suffocate them.
- Mealybugs: Mealybugs feed on sap, resulting in wilting and yellowing of the leaves. The insects are covered with a white, powdery substance that makes them easy to identify. To manage mealybugs, it's essential to prune and dispose of the infected plant parts and apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
- Aphids: Aphids suck the sap of the plant and secrete a sticky substance that attracts ants. The insects are usually found on the undersides of leaves. To control aphids, it's crucial to remove the infected plant parts and spray with water to knock them off. Application of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil might also prove beneficial in controlling aphids.
