Origin
Dubautia ×demissifolia (Sherff) Keck (pro sp.), commonly known as Dubautia, is a hybrid species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. The plant is endemic to Hawaii, particularly on the islands of Kauai and Niihau.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as lehua dubautia, demiss dubautia, or Dubautia. The name lehua dubautia refers to the plant's affinity for growing in lehua forests, while demiss dubautia is derived from the plant's low-lying and sprawling form. The name Dubautia is a tribute to French botanist, Felix Dubaut.
Appearance
Dubautia ×demissifolia is a low-lying and sprawling shrub that can grow up to 2 meters in diameter. The plant has leathery and glossy leaves that are oval-shaped with wavy edges. The flowers are small, white, and clustered in terminal inflorescences. The plant blooms from August to December and is a significant nectar source for many native Hawaiian insects and birds.
Uses
The plant is mainly cultivated as an ornamental species due to its unique appearance. In traditional Hawaiian medicine, the plant is used to treat various ailments such as coughs, colds, and headaches. The leaves of Dubautia ×demissifolia are also used to make lei, a traditional Hawaiian garland.
Light Requirements
Dubautia ×demissifolia usually grows in areas with full to partial sunlight. It is an adaptable plant that is capable of thriving in both conditions, but it prefers partial sunlight, especially in the afternoon when the sun is at its hottest. If grown in areas with overexposure to sunlight, this plant may get damaged or may require extra watering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers mild temperatures, between 50 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. It cannot tolerate high temperatures or frost and must be grown in areas with consistent temperature conditions. If exposed to excessively high temperatures or frost, the leaves may begin to wither or fall off. It is recommended to not grow the plant in temperatures above 80 degrees Fahrenheit or below 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
Dubautia ×demissifolia prefers well-draining, acidic soils with ample organic matter. The ideal soil pH range for this plant is between 4.5 and 6.0, and it grows best in soil that is high in humus. Ample moisture is also required for proper growth, but it cannot tolerate waterlogged soil. This plant cannot grow well in nutrient-poor soil and will require fertilization to maintain optimal growth.
Cultivation methods
The Dubautia ×demissifolia (Sherff) Keck (pro sp.), also known as the Kokee Dubautia, is a plant that thrives in cool, moist climates, such as its natural habitat in Hawaii. To cultivate this plant, it is recommended to mimic these conditions by planting it in a shaded area with well-draining soil that remains moist but not waterlogged. It can also be grown in pots with appropriate drainage holes, using a potting mix rich in organic matter.
Watering needs
The Kokee Dubautia requires regular watering but must be carefully monitored to avoid overwatering. The soil should be kept moist, but not saturated, and the plant should not be allowed to sit in standing water. It is best to water the plant deeply about once a week, depending on the weather conditions, and to adjust the watering schedule as necessary based on the moisture level of the soil.
Fertilization
The Kokee Dubautia is a light feeder and does not require heavy fertilization. To avoid over-fertilization, it is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer applied once or twice a year at the beginning of the growing season. Use fertilizers that are low in nitrogen and high in phosphorus and potassium.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the Kokee Dubautia, but it can benefit from light pruning to encourage bushier growth and to remove dead or damaged branches. Prune the plant in the spring after the flowering season is over, cutting back no more than one-third of the overall growth. Always use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Dubautia ×demissifolia
Dubautia ×demissifolia (Sherff) Keck (pro sp.) is a rare Hawaiian plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. Propagation is essential to conserve this species, and there are few methods that can be used:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common way to propagate Dubautia ×demissifolia. The seeds are relatively small and can be easily collected from the flower heads. After collecting the seeds, they need to be cleaned and dried thoroughly to avoid any fungal and bacterial infections. Dubautia ×demissifolia seeds require stratification, meaning that they need to be exposed to cold temperatures for a certain period before germination. Once the stratification period is over, the seeds can be sown in a seed tray or pot filled with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and maintain a temperature of about 20°C until germination. The young plants can be transplanted to larger pots or to the garden after they have developed 3-4 true leaves.
Vegetative Propagation
Dubautia ×demissifolia can also be propagated vegetatively. The easiest method is through stem cuttings. Take a cutting of about 10-15cm from a healthy and disease-free plant. Remove the lower leaves, leaving only two or three at the top. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder, and plant it in a pot with well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide the cutting with medium light until it grows roots and new leaves. When the plant is established, it can be transplanted to a larger pot or to the garden. Vegetative propagation is an excellent method to produce identical copies of an individual plant.
Tissue Culture Propagation
Tissue culture propagation is a method of creating identical clones of a plant using only a few cells from the parent plant. Tissue culture propagation is a complex and precise process that requires laboratory equipment and expertise. The method involves growing cells in a nutrient-rich medium that promotes their growth while controlling their conditions. Once the cells grow to the desired amount, they can be transferred to a new medium to promote the growth of organs such as roots and shoots. Once the new plants are established, they can be transplanted to the garden. This method is mainly used for commercial propagation, and it's not commonly used for Dubautia ×demissifolia.
Disease Management
Some common diseases that can affect Dubautia ×demissifolia include leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot. To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain good sanitation practices. Remove any infected or diseased plant material promptly and destroy it. Avoid overhead watering as this can create a humid environment that promotes disease development.
When planting new Dubautia ×demissifolia, be sure to select disease-resistant varieties whenever possible. Additionally, provide adequate spacing between plants to promote air circulation and prevent the spread of disease.
Fungicides may be necessary to control more serious cases of disease. Be sure to read and follow all instructions and safety precautions on the label when using these products.
Pest Management
Common pests that can affect Dubautia ×demissifolia include aphids, spider mites, and scale insects. Inspect your plants regularly for signs of pest activity such as yellowing or distorted leaves, sticky residue, or visible insects.
To manage pest infestations, try using non-chemical methods first. For example, you can spray your plant with a strong stream of water to knock off aphids and spider mites. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control these pests.
If the infestation is severe or non-chemical methods are not effective, you may need to use chemical pesticides. Use caution when applying these products and follow all label instructions carefully to avoid harming beneficial insects and pollinators.
As with disease management, maintaining good sanitation practices can help prevent pest infestations. Removing fallen leaves and other debris can reduce hiding places and breeding grounds for pests.
