Origin and Common Names
Diospyros sandwicensis (A. DC.) Fosberg var. toppingii (Fosberg) St. John, also known as the Hawaiian persimmon, is a species of small, evergreen tree or shrub in the Ebony family, Ebenaceae. It is native to Hawaii and can be found in the Pacific Islands.
The tree has a few common names such as noni pia, noni papa, and lama. The fruits are commonly called lama berries.
Uses
Diospyros sandwicensis has a few medicinal uses in traditional Hawaiian medicine. For example, the fruit was used as a laxative and for treating coughs, and the bark was used for stomach pains. The lama berries were also an important food source for the indigenous Hawaiians.
General Appearance
Diospyros sandwicensis is a small evergreen tree or shrub that can grow up to 10 meters in height. The bark is grayish-brown and the branches are covered in small brown hairs when young. The leaves are shiny and smooth on the surface, with a pointed tip and a rounded base. They are arranged alternately on the stem and are about 9-13 cm long.
The flowers are small and white, and they bloom from December to May. The fruits are round or slightly oblong and are about 2–3 cm in diameter. They are yellowish-orange when ripe and have a smooth surface. The flesh is thin, and the seeds are hard and black.
Overall, Diospyros sandwicensis is a beautiful tree with glossy evergreen leaves and its lama berries are a tasty and nutritious food source.
Growth Conditions of Diospyros sandwicensis var. toppingii
Diospyros sandwicensis var. toppingii, also known as Topping's ebony, is a slow-growing tree endemic to the Hawaiian islands. It is typically found in dry forests, shrublands, and rocky slopes at elevations ranging from sea level to 700 meters.
Light Requirements
Topping's ebony prefers full sun to partial shade. In its natural habitat, it is often found growing under the canopy of other trees or alongside rocky outcrops where it can receive ample sunlight. In cultivation, it is important to provide the tree with bright, direct sunlight for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
This species is well adapted to Hawaii's warm, tropical climate. It thrives in temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15.5°C to 27°C). In colder regions, it can be grown in a greenhouse or conservatory to maintain the warm temperatures it requires.
Soil Requirements
Topping's ebony prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5. It is tolerant of a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. In its native habitat, it can often be found growing in rocky or volcanic soils. Regular fertilization is recommended to provide the tree with the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Cultivation Methods
Diospyros sandwicensis (A. DC.) Fosberg var. toppingii (Fosberg) St. John thrives in well-drained soil with good aeration. It requires a location with full sun exposure and a warm climate. The soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. A temperature above 60 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for optimal growth.
Watering Needs
Watering needs for Diospyros sandwicensis (A. DC.) Fosberg var. toppingii (Fosberg) St. John vary depending on the season and the stage of growth. During the growing season, the tree needs regular watering to keep the soil moist. Young trees require more water than mature ones. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while too little water can stunt growth.
Fertilization
For best results, Diospyros sandwicensis (A. DC.) Fosberg var. toppingii (Fosberg) St. John should be fertilized about three times a year. A balanced fertilizer with a 10-10-10 ratio is recommended. Fertilization should be done in small quantities and watered generously after application. Over-fertilizing can lead to excess foliage growth, which can reduce fruit production.
Pruning
Pruning should be done during the dormant season. It involves removing dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Pruning also helps regulate the tree's shape and promote fruit production. Young trees may require pruning to train them into the desired shape, while mature trees require maintenance pruning. Do not remove more than 25% of the tree during any one pruning session.
Propagation of Diospyros sandwicensis var. toppingii
Diospyros sandwicensis var. toppingii, commonly known as the Hawaiian ebony or lama, is a small to medium-sized tree species endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. The plant is often used for reforestation and ornamental purposes due to its hardwood and attractive shiny foliage. Propagation of the plant can be carried out in several ways.
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Diospyros sandwicensis var. toppingii from seed is the most common method. Mature seeds are collected when the fruit ripens and falls to the ground. The seeds are then cleaned and soaked in water for several hours. Afterward, they can be sown in containers or directly in the ground with good drainage.
The seeds require high humidity and consistent temperatures of around 70°F to germinate successfully. Germination can take up to two months. The seedlings can be transplanted to individual containers or pots once they are large enough to handle.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Diospyros sandwicensis var. toppingii from cuttings is possible but considered challenging. Young shoots are collected, and the leaves are removed from the lower half of the cutting. The cuttings are then treated with rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix.
The cuttings require high humidity and bright, indirect light to root successfully. Mist the cuttings regularly and keep the soil consistently moist. Rooting of cuttings can take up to six months.
Layering Propagation
Propagation of Diospyros sandwicensis var. toppingii from layering is another method used. A low-hanging branch is selected, and a small cut is made in the bark. The branch is then bent to the ground and secured in place. The cut is treated with rooting hormone, and the branch is covered with soil.
The branch will eventually root and can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted once it has developed a sufficient root system.
Disease and Pest Management for Diospyros sandwicensis var. toppingii
Diospyros sandwicensis var. toppingii, commonly known as Hawaii persimmon, is a small tree species endemic to Hawaii. The plant produces sweet, orange, plum-like fruits that are edible and are often used in making jams and jellies. However, like any other plant species, Hawaii persimmon is also susceptible to pest infestation and the occurrence of diseases that can affect the foliage and fruits.
Common Diseases
Hawaii persimmon plants are susceptible to several diseases, including:
- Anthracnose: This fungal disease commonly attacks persimmon fruits, causing black spots or sunken lesions on the fruit's skin. To prevent this disease, farmers can use fungicides, maintain appropriate tree spacing for proper air circulation, and practice good sanitation by removing infected fruits from the tree and disposing of them properly.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf Spot is a fungal disease that causes circular, brown spots on the plant's leaves. It is often due to stress from environmental factors such as temperature, humid conditions, and non-optimal soil moisture levels. Treatment should involve removing and destroying infected plant parts and ensuring sufficient water and nutrient supply.
- Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that causes the roots of the plant to rot leading to stunted growth and leaves turning yellow. Proper care should be taken to ensure good drainage, and infected plants should be dug up and destroyed.
Common Pests
The most common pests that affect Hawaii persimmon trees include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plant sap. They can cause the leaves to curl, turn yellow, and stunt growth. Farmers can use insecticidal soaps, neem oil or other insecticides labeled for the control of aphid infestations
- Spider mites: Spider mites are small insects that extract plant sap producing yellowish-white spots on the leaves. Farmers can control spider mites by spraying the plants with water or using insecticidal soaps, neem oil, or insecticides labeled for the control of spider mites.
- Fruit flies: Fruit flies lay their eggs inside persimmons, which can cause fruit rot and damage. Control measures may include trapping them with red sticky traps, using fruit fly baits, or harvesting the fruit earlier before the pests start infesting them.
Overall, proper disease and pest management is essential to maintain healthy and thriving Hawaii persimmon plants. It is recommended to perform regular inspections and take action at the first signs of infestation or infection. Maintaining good tree hygiene, proper irrigation, and appropriate planting techniques can go a long way in controlling pests and diseases in Hawaii persimmon plants.
