Origin and Common Names
Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr, also known as the sprawling Dubautia, is a native Hawaiian plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant is predominantly found on the islands of Kauai, Maui, and the Big Island, where it thrives in wet forests and subalpine regions. It is locally known as 'na'ena'e.
General Appearance
The sprawling Dubautia is a perennial herb that grows up to 6 feet tall. The plant's stems are woody at the base, while the upper parts are herbaceous and green, with glandular hairs that give them a sticky texture. The leaves are oblong to narrowly lance-shaped, ranging from 6 to 14 cm long, and 1 to 2 cm wide. The upper surface is dark green while the lower surface is paler. The plant blooms between June and October, producing clusters of small, white or pale yellow flowers at the tips of its many branches.
Uses
The sprawling Dubautia is an important plant in Hawaiian culture for its traditional medicinal properties. Its leaves and flowering tops were used by Hawaiian herbalists to treat various ailments such as fever, coughs, and sore throats. The plant is also a food source for many native insects and birds and is a key component in the ecological balance of Hawaiian forests. In recent times, the plant has become increasingly endangered due to habitat loss and displacement by invasive species. Conservation efforts are underway to preserve the species and its habitat.
Growth Conditions for Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr
Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr is a plant that is native to Hawaii and belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant species is endemic to the island of Kauai and is commonly found in wet forests or bogs at elevations of 600 to 2000 meters.
Light Requirements
Dubautia linearis requires filtered sunlight or partial shade for optimal growth. In the wild, this plant grows in the understory of the forest where it is shaded by taller trees. In cultivation, it is important to mimic these conditions to ensure successful growth and development of the plant.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species grows in cooler temperatures and prefers temperatures between 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. It is able to tolerate some frost, but extended exposure to freezing temperatures can damage the plant or even result in its death. Therefore, it is important to protect the plant from frost and to keep it in a cool environment.
Soil Requirements
Dubautia linearis grows best in well-draining, nutrient-rich soils. In the wild, it is commonly found growing in bogs where the soil is wet but aerated. In cultivation, it is important to provide the plant with a soil mixture that is able to retain some moisture but is not waterlogged. The addition of organic matter can help to improve soil fertility and aeration.
Cultivation of Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr
Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr is a shrub that is easy to cultivate in the garden. It thrives in well-draining soil and grows well in full sun or partially shaded areas. It can tolerate dry conditions once established.
The best time to plant Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr is in the early spring or fall. Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough to accommodate the entire root system. Gently loosen the roots and plant the shrub in the hole. Backfill the hole with soil, and tamp it down firmly around the base of the shrub.
Watering Needs of Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr
Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr requires regular watering, especially during the first growing season. Water the shrub deeply once a week. Ensure that the soil around the shrub is moist but not waterlogged. Allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. During the hot summer months, the shrub may require an additional watering every week.
Fertilization of Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr
Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr benefits from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply the fertilizer in the early spring before new growth appears, and then again in the early fall before the shrub enters its dormant phase. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the correct dosage and application method.
Pruning Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr
Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr requires minimal pruning. You can trim the shrub to keep it tidy and encourage bushy growth. Prune the shrub in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Also, cut back the tips of the branches to encourage bushy growth. Avoid pruning the shrub heavily as this may reduce flowering.
Propagation of Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr
Dubautia linearis (Gaud.) Keck ssp. opposita (Sherff) G.D. Carr, commonly known as Na'ena'e, is a Hawaiian plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant grows in dry to wet forests, shrublands, and meadows at elevations ranging from sea level to 2700 meters. Propagation of Na'ena'e can be done using various methods that are detailed below.
Seed Propagation
Na'ena'e can be propagated from seeds, which can be collected from mature and healthy plants. The seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until ready for planting. When planting, the seeds should be stratified to improve their germination rate. Stratification can be done by storing the seeds in a refrigerator or freezer for a few weeks before planting. The seeds should then be sown in well-draining soil in a nursery bed or a pot. They should be covered with a thin layer of soil and watered gently. Germination can take several weeks to months, depending on the conditions provided.
Cuttings Propagation
Na'ena'e can also be propagated from stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem from a mature plant and make a cut at a 45-degree angle. The cutting should be about 6 inches in length and should have a few leaves attached to it. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone powder and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Water the cutting and cover it with a plastic bag to create a mini greenhouse that can retain moisture. Place the cutting in a shaded area and mist it regularly. The cutting should root in 3-4 weeks, and the plastic bag can be removed once new growth appears.
Division Propagation
Na'ena'e can be propagated through division, which involves separating the root ball of a mature plant into smaller sections. This method should be done during the plant's dormant season, which is usually in early spring. Carefully dig up the plant and remove the soil around the roots. Use a sharp knife or a garden fork to divide the root ball into smaller sections, making sure that each section has some healthy roots and new shoots. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and water them thoroughly.
Disease and Pest Management for Dubautia linearis
Dubautia linearis is an endemic plant species of Hawaii, and it is vulnerable to various diseases and pests. Managing these diseases and pests is crucial to maintaining plant health and vitality. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect your Dubautia linearis plant and some ways to manage them:
Common Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spots – These are caused by various fungal pathogens that cause small, circular spots on the leaves. Over time, the spots may merge and become larger, leading to leaf drop and twig dieback. To manage fungal leaf spots, remove infected plant debris and improve air circulation by pruning. Apply fungicides if the problem persists and follow label instructions carefully.
Crown Gall – This disease is caused by the bacteria Agrobacterium tumefaciens, which leads to the formation of tumor-like growths on the roots and stems. The infected plants may show stunted growth and discoloration. To manage crown galls, avoid planting in infected soil and use healthy planting material. Prune and destroy infected tissues and disinfect pruning tools before use.
Common Pests
Spider Mites – These are tiny pests that suck plant sap and cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. They thrive in hot and dry conditions and are often found on the undersides of leaves. To manage spider mites, wash off the pests using a strong jet of water or apply insecticidal soap or a miticide. Monitor your plants regularly and catch infestations early.
Aphids – These are small, pear-shaped insects that feed on plant sap and cause distorted growth and yellowing of leaves. They excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold. To manage aphids, remove infested plant parts and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and may help control their populations.
Implementing a good plant care routine and keeping your Dubautia linearis healthy and stress-free is the first step towards disease and pest management. Avoid over-fertilizing, over-watering, and damaging the plant during maintenance. Regularly inspect your plants and take prompt action if you notice any signs of diseases or pests.
