Description of Dubautia struthioloides (Gray) Keck
Dubautia struthioloides (Gray) Keck is a flowering plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is a small-sized perennial shrub that is native to Hawaii, specifically found on the islands of Maui, Moloka‘i, and L?na‘i.
Common Names
Dubautia struthioloides is commonly known as Na‘ena‘e in Hawaiian language, which means "to move without leaving a track." It is also referred to as Dubautia or Dubautia shrub as a general name.
Appearance
The plant has a shrubby growth habit and can reach up to 1 meter in height. Its leaves are thin and feather-like with smooth edges and are often green-gray in color. The leaves grow densely on the woody stems, forming a compact bush. From late summer through fall, the plant produces small yellowish flowers with a daisy-like appearance, which grow in clusters at the tips of the stems.
Uses
Dubautia struthioloides is used in traditional Hawaiian medicine for its medicinal properties. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and is used to treat a variety of ailments, including sore throat, respiratory problems, and skin conditions. In addition, the plant is used in landscape gardening, as a groundcover, and for soil conservation in natural ecosystems. It is also an important habitat for Hawaiian forest birds.
In conclusion, Dubautia struthioloides is a small but significant plant species found in Hawaii. Its unique appearance and traditional uses make it a remarkable plant species.
Light Requirements
Dubautia struthioloides requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. However, it can tolerate shade if it receives enough sunlight throughout the day.
Temperature Requirements
Dubautia struthioloides thrives in a cool climate with temperatures ranging between 60-80°F. It is an alpine plant that can tolerate frost and freezing temperatures. However, it cannot survive in extremely hot or humid conditions.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be acidic and have a pH value between 4.5-5.5. Dubautia struthioloides grows well in rocky and gravelly soil, which mimics its natural habitat.
Cultivation Methods for Dubautia struthioloides (Gray) Keck
Dubautia struthioloides, commonly known as Na'ena'e in Hawaiian, is an endemic shrub found in Hawaii's high-altitude regions. Cultivation of this plant involves a few essential methods that you must follow to ensure its survival and growth.
First, it's essential to plant Dubautia struthioloides in a location that receives plenty of sunlight and offers well-draining, volcanic soil. Unlike many other plants, Na'ena'e prefers volcanic soil, which allows its roots to breathe and absorb nutrients adequately.
Second, it's essential to grow Dubautia struthioloides in areas with high humidity but avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Therefore, planting on top of a small mound often helps to improve drainage.
Watering Needs
Watering Dubautia struthioloides heavily is not necessary since it's adapted to the dry regions, but it still needs watering when the soil becomes dry. Ensure to examine the soil before watering to avoid root rot since the plant's roots can't tolerate waterlogging. As a general rule, plants should be watered deeply once every eight to ten days, depending on the climate.
Fertilization
While Dubautia struthioloides are not heavy feeders, you can fertilize them right after planting to help them get rooted in the new soil. Use a light dose of nitrogen-rich fertilizer every three months to encourage healthy foliage growth. The fertilizer should be watered in after application.
Pruning Dubautia struthioloides
Pruning Dubautia struthioloides helps encourage growth and maintain a healthy plant. The best time to prune is in the early spring before new growth appears.
Cut back any dead or diseased branches to the main stem. Thin out a third of the plant's woodier branches to foster growth and to open the plant up to light and air circulation. Pruning encourages new growth and puts less stress on stem growth, allowing the plant to focus on growing its leaves and flowers.
Propagation of Dubautia struthioloides
Dubautia struthioloides, commonly known as Na`ena`e kuahiwi, belongs to the Asteraceae family, and is endemic to Hawaii. This plant is an important component of the native Hawaiian ecosystems, and is known for its yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom in the spring and summer.
Propagation Methods
Dubautia struthioloides can be propagated by either seeds or cuttings. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, and your choice will depend on the resources and equipment you have available.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Dubautia struthioloides are small and fine, which makes them challenging to handle. If you decide to propagate this plant from seeds, start by collecting mature seeds from the parent plant. To ensure successful germination, use a well-draining soil mix and keep it consistently moist. Seeds should be sowed at a shallow depth of 1/8 inch, and its temperature maintained at 60-70°F to aid germination.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a relatively easy and faster method to propagate Dubautia struthioloides. Take cuttings of the parent plant, making sure they are at least 3 inches long and contain two or three leaves. Then, dip the cuttings in a rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the cuttings moist, and ensure that they receive partial shade and moderate humidity during the rooting phase. After two to three months, the cuttings should have developed roots and can be transplanted into larger containers or planted directly into the ground.
These are the two most common methods of propagating Dubautia struthioloides. Once propagated, this plant can be used to add a splash of color to your garden or landscape, particularly if you're looking to maintain a native Hawaiian theme.
Disease Management
Dubautia struthioloides is a relatively disease-free plant. However, there are some diseases that might affect the plant. The most common diseases that can infect Dubautia struthioloides are fungal infections such as powdery mildew and downy mildew.
Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves. Downy mildew appears as yellow spots on the leaves that eventually turn brown. To manage these diseases, the plant should be kept dry. Avoid watering the plant from overhead, and allow adequate air circulation around the plant.
Pest Management
There are several pests that can attack Dubautia struthioloides. The most common pests include spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Spider mites are tiny spider-like insects that suck the sap from the leaves. Aphids are small insects that feed on the plant's leaves, causing them to curl and become distorted. Mealybugs are small white insects that secrete a sticky substance on the plant, which attracts ants and other pests.
To manage these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Insecticidal soap is effective against spider mites and aphids, while neem oil works well against mealybugs. Additionally, regular inspection and pruning can help control and prevent pest infestations.
