Origin and Common Names
Dodonaea eriocarpa Sm. var. molokaiensis O. Deg. & Sherff, commonly known as Moloka?i ?A?ali?i, is a plant species belonging to the soapberry family Sapindaceae. It is endemic to the island of Moloka?i in Hawaii, but can also be found on the neighboring islands of O?ahu and Maui.Appearance
Moloka?i ?A?ali?i is a small shrub or tree, usually growing up to 5 meters tall and 10 cm in diameter. It has a dense, round-shaped canopy with small, ovate or elliptic leaves that are approximately 2-7 cm long and 1-3 cm wide. The leaves have a dark green color and are covered with dense, velvety hairs on the underside. The plant has small, inconspicuous flowers that are green to greenish-yellow in color and appear in clusters at the branch tips. The fruit is a small, round capsule that is 4-6 mm in diameter and contains three seeds. The capsule usually turns brown when mature and is easily dispersed by wind.Uses
Moloka?i ?A?ali?i has various traditional uses in Hawaiian culture. The leaves and bark of the plant were used to make a brown dye for kapa cloth. The wood was used for making tools, weapons, and other implements. The plant also has some medicinal properties. The leaves were used to treat coughs, colds, and fever, and to soothe sore throats. The bark was used to treat skin infections, cuts, and bruises. In modern times, Moloka?i ?A?ali?i is used as an ornamental plant in landscaping due to its attractive appearance and hardiness. Its ability to grow in poor soils and tolerate harsh conditions makes it a great choice for erosion control and reforestation projects.Light Requirements
Dodonaea eriocarpa Sm. var. molokaiensis O. Deg. & Sherff prefers full sun exposure to part shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it does best in open, sunny areas. Make sure the plant gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the Hawaiian Islands and is well-suited to warm, tropical environments. Ideally, the temperature range should be between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (21 to 29 degrees Celsius) during the day and between 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (15 to 21 degrees Celsius) at night. Anything below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) can be potentially harmful to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The soil for Dodonaea eriocarpa Sm. var. molokaiensis O. Deg. & Sherff should be well-draining, slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (pH 6.0 to 7.5), and rich in organic matter. Sandy loam or loam is recommended for good drainage. The plant does not tolerate water-logged soils and is prone to root rot. Make sure the soil is consistently moist but not water-logged. Add organic matter, such as compost or peat moss, before planting to improve the soil's fertility and structure.
Cultivation methods
Dodonaea eriocarpa Sm. var. molokaiensis O. Deg. & Sherff, commonly known as Moloka'i Hopbush or Hopseed Bush, is a shrub endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It is a hardy plant that grows well in USDA zones 10-11. The plant prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location. If you are planting in a container, make sure it is big enough to accommodate the roots of the plant. You can propagate by seeds or cuttings.
Watering needs
Moloka'i Hopbush plant requires regular watering during the growing season, but it can tolerate dry conditions. Water the plant thoroughly every 7-10 days, more often in hot and dry weather. Overwatering can damage the roots, so make sure the soil is well-drained. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as it can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
The plant does not require much fertilization, but a slow-release balanced fertilizer can be added to the soil during the growing season. Apply fertilizer every three months, following the instructions on the package. Avoid over-fertilization, as it can cause the plant to become leggy or produce too many leaves at the expense of flowers.
Pruning
Pruning is not essential for this plant, but it can help to shape it and encourage bushier growth. You can prune the plant in the spring before new growth begins. Cut back any dead or damaged branches, and trim back any branches that are growing too long. Avoid pruning too much at once, as it may weaken the plant.
Propagation of Dodonaea eriocarpa Sm. var. molokaiensis O. Deg. & Sherff
Dodonaea eriocarpa Sm. var. molokaiensis O. Deg. & Sherff can be propagated by both seed and cuttings methods.
Propagation by Seed
Seeds of Dodonaea eriocarpa Sm. var. molokaiensis O. Deg. & Sherff germinate readily and can be sown directly into a pot or bed. The best time to sow seeds is in the spring or early summer when the temperature is warm. The seeds should be sown 1-2 cm deep in well-drained soil or seed-raising mix. Keep the soil moist, and the seeds should germinate within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough to handle, they can be transplanted into individual pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is an effective way to propagate Dodonaea eriocarpa Sm. var. molokaiensis O. Deg. & Sherff. Semi-hardwood cuttings should be taken from the current year's growth in late spring or early summer. Cuttings should be approximately 10-15 cm long and taken from the firm, woody section of the stem. Remove any leaves from the cutting, except for a few at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder and plant the cutting into a pot or seed-raising mix. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or propagator lid to create a humid environment. Place the pot in a warm, brightly lit area, but out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. After 6-8 weeks, roots should have developed, and the cuttings can be transplanted to individual pots or directly into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Dodonaea eriocarpa Sm. var. molokaiensis O. Deg. & Sherff
Dodonaea eriocarpa Sm. var. molokaiensis O. Deg. & Sherff, commonly known as Moloka'i Hop Bush, is a small to medium-sized evergreen plant that is native to Hawaii. Like any other plant, it is vulnerable to diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Proper disease and pest management are, therefore, essential for the plant's well-being. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Dodonaea eriocarpa Sm. var. molokaiensis O. Deg. & Sherff and ways to manage them.
Diseases
Fungal infections: Fungal infections can cause foliar damage, discoloration, wilting, and even death in some cases. Common fungal diseases that might affect Dodonaea eriocarpa Sm. var. molokaiensis O. Deg. & Sherff include leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew. To manage fungal infections, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil, avoid overhead watering, and prune diseased parts of the plant. Fungicides can also be used for severe infections.
Bacterial infections: Bacterial infections can cause cankers, leaf spots, and blight. These infections are usually spread by water and insects. To prevent bacterial infections, avoid overhead watering, keep the plant pruned, and maintain proper drainage. Copper-based fungicides can be used for bacterial infections.
Viral infections: Viral infections can cause stunted growth, mosaic patterns on leaves, and overall decline in plant health. There is no known cure for viral infections, so the best way to manage them is to prevent them from spreading. Use virus-free plant material and avoid propagation or cultivation of infected plants.
Pests
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause leaf wilting, discoloration, and webbing. They thrive in dry and hot conditions. To manage spider mites, use insecticides that specifically target them, increase humidity levels, and ensure that the plant's soil is evenly moist.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can cause defoliation and damage to the plant's bark and stems. They can be controlled manually by handpicking them from the plant or by using insecticides.
Scale insects: Scale insects are tiny pests that attach to the plant's bark, causing it to look shiny and feel sticky. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, and regular pruning to remove affected plant parts.
By using proper disease and pest management practices, you can ensure that your Dodonaea eriocarpa Sm. var. molokaiensis O. Deg. & Sherff grows healthy and lush. Always inspect your plant regularly for any signs of diseases or pests, and take appropriate measures to manage them immediately.
