Origin and Common Names
Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver, commonly known as the Lanai 'A'ali'i, is a species of shrub in the coffee family, Rubiaceae. It is endemic to Hawaii, specifically found on the island of Lanai, where it grows in dry forests and shrublands.
Appearance
The Lanai 'A'ali'i typically grows to be 2-3 meters (6-10 feet) in height, with an equal spread. It features an evergreen foliage consisting of small, glossy, and waxy leaves that are arranged alternately along the branches. The leaves are oval-shaped, up to a centimeter long, and have a distinctive dark green color, which often becomes reddish or bronze in response to environmental stress.
In the early spring and summer, the plant produces small, white to greenish flowers that are about 3 millimeters in diameter. The flowers are often inconspicuous and appear in axillary clusters. Following the flowers, the plant produces bright red or orange berries containing 1-2 seeds, which fall and disperse on the ground around the plant.
Uses
Traditionally, the native Hawaiians used different parts of the Lanai 'A'ali'i plant to treat various ailments. The leaves and bark were boiled, and the resulting infusion was used to treat cough, asthma, and aching muscles. The leaves and fruits were chewed to help alleviate sore throats and mouth ulcers.
Today, Coprosma fauriei is mainly used as an ornamental plant in landscaping due to its attractive foliage and berries. Its hardiness and ability to grow in a variety of soils make it a popular choice for xeriscaping or low-water gardens.
The plant is also essential for the ecosystem as it provides shelter and food for native birds, including the endangered Lanai Hookbill, a species endemic to Lanai.
Light Requirements
Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will grow best when exposed to at least a few hours of direct sunlight each day. However, it's important to note that too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers a moderate climate. It grows best when the temperature remains between 60°F-70°F (15°C-21°C), and it can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) and as high as 80°F (27°C). Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver is a tropical plant, so it will not tolerate frost or freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver thrives in well-draining soils that are nutrient-rich. The ideal soil is slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0-6.5. The plant can tolerate some drought, but it prefers soil that is constantly moist. When planting, adding organic matter such as compost or peat moss to the soil can help improve its fertility and drainage.
Cultivation
Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver is a native Hawaiian plant that is generally easy to cultivate. It can be grown in USDA plant hardiness zones 10 and 11. The plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. Before planting, loosen the soil and add organic matter to improve the drainage.
Watering Needs
Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver is drought tolerant, but it requires frequent watering during its first year of growth to establish a healthy root system. After that, it can tolerate infrequent watering. When watering, ensure that the soil is completely saturated, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
Fertilization
Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver is a low-maintenance plant that does not require frequent fertilization. However, for optimal growth, apply a slow-release fertilizer every six months in the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10.
Pruning
Pruning Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver is essential to maintain its shape and keep it healthy. The best time to prune is during early spring before the new growth starts. Trim any dead or diseased branches, and prune the plant to maintain the desired shape. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant to avoid stunting its growth.
Propagation of Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver
Propagation of Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver can be done by two main methods: seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The ideal time to sow Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver seeds is in early spring or autumn. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil mixtures, covered with a thin layer of soil, and kept moist. Germination usually occurs in 3-6 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to larger containers or outdoors once they reach a suitable size.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings of Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver can be taken in early summer. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and free of any diseases or damage. The bottom leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone before being inserted into a well-draining soil mixture. The soil should be kept moist and the cuttings should be kept in a warm, shaded location. Roots should form within 2-3 weeks, and the cuttings can be transplanted to larger containers or outdoors once they are established.
Disease Management for Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver
Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver is a hardy plant but it can still be affected by several diseases. Some of the common diseases that might affect this plant include:
- Leaf spots
- Powdery mildew
- Phytophthora root rot
The following are some ways to manage these diseases:
- Ensure the plant is grown in well-drained soil to avoid waterlogged conditions that can cause root rot.
- Avoid watering the plant from overhead as this can cause fungal diseases such as leaf spots and powdery mildew.
- Apply fungicides as recommended by a garden center or agricultural extension agency to manage fungal diseases such as powdery mildew.
- Remove infected leaves and destroy them to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver
Coprosma fauriei Levl. var. lanaiensis Oliver is also susceptible to several pests such as:
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Scale insects
The following are ways to manage these pests:
- Use insecticidal soap to control aphids and spider mites. Alternatively, try spraying the leaves with water to dislodge the pests.
- Prune off any branches infested with scale insects and destroy them. You can also use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to manage them.
- Use biological control methods such as introducing predatory insects like ladybugs to help control aphids and spider mites.
