Description of Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. magnifolium Sherff
Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. magnifolium Sherff is a rare shrub species belonging to the family of Euphorbiaceae. This plant species is commonly known as Hawai'i claoxylon or hau kuahiwi. The plant is endemic to Hawaii, and it occurs on Molokai, Maui, and Oahu islands. This species is commonly found in wet montane forests and shrublands between the elevation of 3,000 to 5,500 feet. The plant is not known to be used for any specific medicinal purposes, but it has some religious significance for the Hawaiian culture.
General Appearance
Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. magnifolium Sherff is a small shrub that grows up to 10 feet tall. It has a single stem that grows from the ground level and various branches that grow from the stem. The plant has large leaves that are about 8 to 15 inches long and 3 to 10 inches wide, and they are arranged alternately. The leaves are elliptic, oblong, or ovate in shape and have a smooth surface. The leaves are dark green in color on the top side and lighter green on the bottom side.
The plant produces greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in clusters at the end of the branches. The flowers are very small and have five petals. They produce fruits that are about 0.25 inches in diameter and have three triangular lobes. The fruits are green when young and turn deep red when mature. The plant produces seeds that are shiny and dark brown in color.
Uses
Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. magnifolium Sherff is not known to have any specific medicinal uses. However, the plant has some cultural and religious significance for the Hawaiian people. The plant is used in traditional Hawaiian ceremonies for making lei and decorating altars.
The Hawaiian culture considers the plant as sacred, and it is known as a symbol of strength and resilience. The plant is also valued for its attractive appearance and aesthetic qualities. The plant is rare and endangered, and therefore, its conservation is of utmost importance.
Light Requirements
Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. magnifolium Sherff prefers bright indirect light and partial shade. The plant can tolerate direct sunlight in the morning or late afternoon, but avoid exposing it to the intense sunlight for extended periods. Placing the plant near a window that faces east or west provides ample light without exposing it to the hot afternoon sun.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but temperatures below 60? (16?) can stunt the plant's growth. Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. magnifolium Sherff prefers warm temperatures between 70? to 85? (21? to 29?).
Soil Requirements
The plant grows well in loamy soil that is well-draining, fertile, and moist, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The planting pot should have bottom drainage holes to allow excess water to drain away. A suitable potting mix comprises peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite in equal proportions. It is advisable to add organic matter, such as compost or aged manure, to the soil to improve its fertility.
Cultivation methods
Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. magnifolium Sherff, also known as Hawaiian poppy or popolo, is a tropical plant that requires bright, indirect sunlight and temperatures between 60-80°F. Choose a well-draining potting mix with a pH level of 5.5 to 6.5 and keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Watering needs
Hawaiian poppy plants need frequent watering, but over-watering can lead to root rot. Check the soil moisture level regularly, and only water the plant when the soil feels slightly dry to the touch. The frequency of watering may vary depending on the humidity and temperature of the plant's environment.
Fertilization
Fertilize Hawaiian poppy plants regularly during the growing season. A balanced, water-soluble fertilizer with an equal ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be used every two weeks. Follow the instructions carefully and avoid over-fertilizing, which can burn the plant's roots.
Pruning
To promote a bushy growth habit, pinch back the tips of the stems periodically. You can also prune the plant in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim the plant's overall shape as desired.
Propagation of Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. magnifolium Sherff
Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. magnifolium Sherff, commonly known as Hawaiian poppy tree, is a beautiful flowering shrub that is native to Hawaii. Propagation of this plant is relatively easy and can be done through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation of Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. magnifolium Sherff by seeds is the most common method used to establish new plants. The seeds can be collected from the mature plant's flowers, which usually have greenish-yellow nectar glands. After collecting, clean the seeds and soak them in water for several hours before planting. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix, keep it moist, and place it in a warm location with sufficient light. Germination usually occurs within 2 to 4 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to a larger container or the ground when they are mature enough.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation of Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. magnifolium Sherff by stem cuttings is also possible and is an excellent way to produce exact replicas of the parent plant. Select a healthy stem that is about 6 to 8 inches long and cut it just below a node. Remove any leaves from the lower half of the cutting, dip the cut end in rooting hormone, and place it in a well-draining potting mix. Water it well and cover it with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place the container in a shaded area and make sure to keep the soil moist. Roots will develop within 4 to 6 weeks, and the cutting can be transplanted to a larger container or the ground.
Propagation by air layering
Propagation of Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. magnifolium Sherff by air layering is a more advanced method, but it can also produce excellent results. Select a healthy branch and make a small cut in the bark about 6 to 8 inches from the tip. Apply some rooting hormone to the cut area, wrap it with sphagnum moss, and cover it with plastic wrap. Tie the top and bottom of the plastic wrap with twine to secure the moss in place and keep it moist. Roots will develop within a few months, and the entire branch can be cut off and transplanted to a larger container or the ground.
Propagation of Claoxylon sandwicense Muell.-Arg. var. magnifolium Sherff can be done through several methods. Choose the propagation method that suits you best and ensure that the plant is provided with adequate care to ensure successful growth.
Disease Management
Claoxylon sandwicense var. magnifolium Sherff might be affected by several diseases, including:
- Phytophthora Root Rot: This disease causes the roots to rot, leading to wilting, yellowing of leaves, and eventually death of the plant.
- Anthracnose: This disease causes red or brown lesions on stems and leaves and can lead to yellowing or browning of the leaves.
- Leaf Blight: This disease causes the leaves to have discolored spots or lesions. The spots can eventually expand and affect the entire leaf.
To manage these diseases, it is essential to maintain good plant hygiene. Remove infected leaves and debris from the soil and surrounding areas. Avoid overhead watering, which can splash the soil and spread the pathogens. Use sterile tools when pruning and cutting the plant to prevent the spread of the disease. Fungicides containing copper or other active ingredients may be applied preventively or when the disease first appears to help control the spread.
Pest Management
Claoxylon sandwicense var. magnifolium Sherff is susceptible to certain pests, including:
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and eventually fall off.
- Mealybugs: These insects attach themselves to the stem and suck the sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth and eventual death.
- Scale Insects: These insects attach themselves to the stem and leaves and sap the plant's nutrients.
To control these pests, it is essential to maintain the plant's health and prevent conditions that attract pests, such as stagnant water or over-fertilization. A soap solution can be applied to the affected area to suffocate the pests. Neem oil or insecticidal soap can also be used to control spider mites, mealybugs, and scales. A systemic insecticide can be applied to the soil to prevent the pests from taking hold.
