Origin
Dubautia thyrsiflora (Sherff) Keck var. cernua (Sherff) Keck, commonly known as N?‘ili‘ili, is a plant species endemic to Hawaii. It can be found on the islands of Oahu, Molokai, and Maui.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as N?‘ili‘ili in Hawaii. It is also referred to as Mana'o'o, Pua Kea, and Kahili kuahiwi.
Uses
The plant has a few traditional medicinal uses in Hawaiian culture. The sap was used topically as a diuretic to remove excess water from the body. It was also used as a treatment for skin conditions such as sunburn and insect bites. The leaves were boiled and used as a tea to treat a sore throat and as a general tonic.
As an environmental indicator, the presence of N?‘ili‘ili signifies a healthy, native ecosystem as it is highly adapted to the specific conditions of Hawaii's montane habitats.
General Appearance
N?‘ili‘ili is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall. It is known for its unique, fern-like leaves that are grayish-green in color and can grow up to 8 inches long. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers in clusters at the tips of its branches.
Its root system is deep and expansive to allow it to survive in the harsh, montane environments of Hawaii's volcanic slopes. N?‘ili‘ili is highly adapted to the nutrient-poor, well-drained soils and can thrive in areas with high levels of precipitation.
Light Requirements
The Dubautia thyrsiflora (Sherff) Keck var. cernua (Sherff) Keck prefers to grow in full sun to partial shade. The plant can tolerate a broad range of light intensities but prefers moderate sunlight. Therefore, the plant grows well in open areas with partial shade or in areas receiving direct sunlight for certain periods of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a cool and moist environment to grow well. Dubautia thyrsiflora (Sherff) Keck var. cernua (Sherff) Keck grows well in a temperature range of 60°F-70°F (15.5°C-21.1°C). However, the plant can tolerate slightly higher temperatures of up to 80°F (26.7°C) for a short period of time. During the winter season, the temperature should be maintained between 30°F-60°F (-1.1°C-15.5°C).
Soil Requirements
Dubautia thyrsiflora (Sherff) Keck var. cernua (Sherff) Keck grows best in well-drained and fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant prefers highly acidic soil with a pH range of 4.5-5.5. The plant can tolerate a slightly alkaline pH of up to 6.5 but performs better in acidic soil. The soil should also be moist and well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot.
Cultivation methods
Dubautia thyrsiflora var. cernua is commonly known as the Na'ena'e in Hawaii and is a beautiful plant to cultivate. The plant grows well in well-draining soil, rich in organic matter. It thrives in both full sun and partial shade, and the best season to plant is during the rainy season, precisely between December and March.
Watering needs
The Na'ena'e requires moderate watering to thrive. The watering should be done regularly, and the soil should be kept moist but not soggy. Overwatering the plants may cause root rot, which can result in the death of the plant. It is advisable to reduce watering frequency during the winter season when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization
The Na'ena'e requires a balanced and slow-release fertilizer to boost its growth. It is advisable to apply the fertilizer on the soil's surface and not on the plant's leaves. Fertilizer should be applied twice a year, mainly in spring and late summer.
Pruning
Pruning is an essential aspect of Dubautia thyrsiflora var. cernua care. The plant requires pruning to maintain its shape and size, promote air circulation and prevent pests. After the blooming season, it is advisable to prune the plant lightly to remove dead or damaged foliage.
Propagation Methods for Dubautia thyrsiflora var. cernua
Dubautia thyrsiflora var. cernua, also known as Na`ena`e kuahiwi or N??ena?e, is a native Hawaiian shrub that is commonly found in wet forests at elevations of 2,000 to 4,000 feet. The plant is part of the asters family and produces beautiful yellow flower heads that bloom from late summer to early fall. Propagation of N??ena?e can be done through several methods, including seed germination, stem cuttings, and layering.
Seed Germination
The most common method of propagating N??ena?e is through seed germination. Collect the ripe seeds and store them in a cool, dry place until ready for planting. The seeds are small and light, which makes them easy to transport. To germinate the seeds, start by cleaning the outer layer of the seed coat. You can do this by rubbing the seeds lightly with sandpaper or a nail file. After cleaning, soak the seeds in warm water for a few hours before planting them in a pre-moistened soil mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and provide the seeds with bright, indirect light. The seeds should germinate in about two weeks.
Stem Cuttings
Another method of propagating N??ena?e is through stem cuttings. Take a healthy stem from the parent plant and remove its leaves, except for the top two sets. Dip the cut end of the stem into a rooting hormone, and plant it in a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. Water the plant thoroughly and place it in a bright, but not direct, light. Keep the soil consistently moist and watch for new growth to appear in a few weeks.
Layering
Layering is a propagation method in which a stem is partially buried in the soil, and then roots and new growth develop at the buried section. To propagate N??ena?e through layering, select a mature, healthy stem and make a shallow cut in it. Bend the cut part of the stem downwards and cover it with soil. Place a stake over the stem to keep it in place and provide support. Water the soil regularly and keep it moist. In a few weeks, you should see new growth emerge from the buried stem. Once sufficient root growth has occurred, sever the new plant from the parent plant, and transplant it.
Disease and Pest Management for Dubautia thyrsiflora var. cernua
Dubautia thyrsiflora var. cernua is a shrub that is endemic to Hawaii. Although it is a hardy plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests. Here are some common problems that may affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spot: This disease appears as small, dark spots on the leaves. It can cause leaf yellowing and defoliation. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves, prune the plant to improve air circulation, and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Botrytis Blight: This disease appears as gray, fuzzy growth on the plant. It can cause wilting, defoliation, and stem rot. To manage this disease, prune affected stems, increase air circulation around the plant, and avoid overwatering. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Pests
Spider Mites: These are small, sucking pests that can cause leaf yellowing and stippling. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with water to dislodge them, prune heavily infested areas, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Mealybugs: These are small, white, cottony pests that can cause leaf yellowing and defoliation. To manage mealybugs, remove them from the plant with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, and prune heavily infested areas.
Scale Insects: These are small, immobile pests that can cause leaf yellowing and a sticky substance on the leaves. To manage scale insects, use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to remove them, prune heavily infested areas, and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regular inspection of the plant and immediate action can go a long way in preventing the spread of diseases and pests. Proper cultural practices such as maintaining good hygiene around the plant, avoiding overwatering, and providing appropriate light and moisture can also help maintain a healthy plant that is not susceptible to pests and diseases.
