Plant Description
Diospyros sandwicensis (A. DC.) Fosberg var. elliptica St. John is a species of flowering plant in the ebony family, Ebenaceae. It is native to Hawaii and is commonly known as Lama, Lama loulu, or Black ebony. This small tree can grow up to 10 meters in height, with a trunk diameter of up to 45 centimeters. The leaves of the plant are simple and elliptic in shape, measuring up to 10 centimeters in length and 5 centimeters in width. The large fruit of the plant is edible and measures up to 5 centimeters in diameter.
Plant Uses
The fruit of the Diospyros sandwicensis (A. DC.) Fosberg var. elliptica St. John is considered a delicacy in Hawaii and is often used in jams, pies, and other desserts. The wood of the tree is hard and durable, making it popular for use in furniture and construction. In addition, the plant has medicinal properties and is used in traditional Hawaiian medicine to treat various ailments such as fever and digestive problems.
Plant Appearance
The Diospyros sandwicensis (A. DC.) Fosberg var. elliptica St. John tree has a distinct appearance with dark bark that is slightly furrowed. The leaves of the plant are dark green and glossy, with a leathery texture. The small white flowers of the plant grow in clusters and have a fragrant scent. The fruit of the plant is round and turns from green to purple-black when ripe. The seeds of the fruit are hard and smooth, measuring up to 2 centimeters in length.
Light Requirements
The Diospyros sandwicensis var. elliptica plant typically grows in full sun to partial shade conditions. It requires at least 50 percent of sunlight exposure throughout the day in order to grow and develop properly. In partial shade conditions, the plant may require additional watering to compensate for reduced sunlight exposure.
Temperature Requirements
The Diospyros sandwicensis var. elliptica plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It prefers warm to hot temperatures ranging from 70°F to 90°F (21°C to 32°C). It can also tolerate temperatures as low as 45°F (7°C) for short periods of time, although prolonged exposure to lower temperatures can damage the plant or even kill it.
Soil Requirements
The Diospyros sandwicensis var. elliptica plant thrives in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. The plant is also able to grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they provide proper drainage.
Cultivation methods:
Diospyros sandwicensis (A. DC.) Fosberg var. elliptica St. John, commonly known as the Hawaiian persimmon, thrives in full sun and moderate temperatures. While it can tolerate some shade, it performs best in warm, sunny locations. The plant can grow in various soil types ranging from alkaline to acidic, provided the soil is well-drained. It is well-suited for cultivation in tropical and subtropical climates, such as those found in Hawaii.
Watering needs:
The Hawaiian persimmon requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. Young plants need more frequent watering than mature ones. However, it's crucial to avoid waterlogging or over-watering the soil, which can lead to root rot and other soilborne diseases. A good rule of thumb is to water the plant deeply once a week and adjust the frequency based on the weather and soil moisture levels.
Fertilization:
To ensure healthy growth and fruit production, fertilization is essential. The Hawaiian persimmon benefits from regular applications of balanced fertilizers, such as 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant every eight weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). You can also use organic fertilizers, such as compost or manure, which provide slow-release nutrients that improve the soil structure and fertility. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth and poor fruit quality.
Pruning:
Pruning is essential to maintain the shape of the tree and promote healthy growth. Do some light pruning in the early spring to remove any damaged or dead branches caused by winter frost or cold temperatures. This will also help to improve air circulation and light penetration, reducing the risk of fungal infections. Prune the tree more heavily after the fruiting season to maintain a manageable size and encourage the growth of new shoots and flowering wood. Use sterilized pruning shears to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation methods of Diospyros sandwicensis var. elliptica:
Diospyros sandwicensis var. elliptica, commonly known as lama in Hawaiian, is an evergreen tree that is endemic to Hawaii. It is often grown for its attractive wood and fruits. Propagation of lama can be achieved through several methods such as seed propagation, vegetative propagation and air layering.
Seed propagation:
Lama seeds are obtained from ripe fruit. The fruit is collected and allowed to ripen further until it is soft and can be easily squeezed. Pulp is then removed from the seed which is then washed and dried in shade. The seed can then be sown in a suitable potting mix. The pot should be placed in bright, indirect light and kept moist until germination occurs. Germination may occur within 4-6 weeks of sowing. Once the seedlings have 2-3 sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots filled with a well-draining soil mix.
Vegetative propagation:
Lama can also be propagated through vegetative means such as cuttings and grafting. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken from the current season's growth can be dipped in a rooting hormone and planted in a potting mix. The cuttings can be kept in a shaded area with increased humidity until they develop roots. Grafting is also a common technique used to propagate lama. The scion from a desired tree is grafted onto a rootstock of a related species or a seedling of the same species. The graft union is then wrapped tightly with grafting tape to help the parts fuse together.
Air layering:
Air layering is another propagation method used for lama. In this method, a branch of the tree is selected and a section of bark is removed. A rooting hormone is applied to the exposed area of the trunk and a moist sphagnum moss is wrapped around the exposed trunk. The area is then covered with plastic wrap to increase humidity. A root system will begin to develop within a few months and can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted into a permanent pot or directly into the ground.
Disease Management
Diospyros sandwicensis var. elliptica is susceptible to different diseases which can affect its growth and productivity. Here are the common diseases and ways to manage them:
Canker Diseases
Canker diseases such as Botryosphaeria canker and Phytophthora root rot can affect the plant. To manage canker diseases, prune the affected branches and destroy them. You can also apply a fungicide to protect the plant from future attacks.
Leaf Spot Diseases
Leaf spot diseases such as Cercospora leaf spot and Colletotrichum leaf spot can cause defoliation in the plant. To manage leaf spot diseases, remove the infected leaves, and dispose of them. Apply a fungicide and practice good sanitation practices, including watering the plant at the base, not the foliage.
Pest Management
Diospyros sandwicensis var. elliptica can also fall prey to different pests, leading to damage and reduced productivity. Here are the most common pests and management strategies:
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, and waxy pests that suck sap from the plant, leading to stunted growth. To manage mealybugs, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove the pests. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the plant to control the pests.
Aphids
Aphids are small, green, and winged pests that also suck sap from the plant. To manage aphids, prune the affected parts and destroy them. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to protect the plant from future attacks.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, oval, and flat pests that also suck sap from the plant. To manage scale insects, prune the affected parts of the plant and remove the pests using a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. You can also apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pests.
