Overview:
Entelea arborescens is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the Malvaceae family. It is also known as the whau tree, kaikomako, or New Zealand mulberry. This plant is native to New Zealand and some of its Pacific islands. The whau tree has numerous traditional uses and is one of the significant species in Maori culture.
Appearance:
The whau tree is a small tree or shrub that generally grows up to 6 meters in height and has a similar spread. The young branches of the plant are silky or woolly, and as they age, they become smooth and brown. The whau tree has large, heart-shaped leaves that are approximately 20cm long and 15cm wide. The leaves are leathery, hairy, and have toothed edges. The flowers are creamy-white and bloom from December to February. The fruit of the tree is a woody capsule that contains numerous seeds.
Traditional Uses:
The whau tree has various traditional uses, including medicinal and cultural uses. The bark of the whau tree was used in traditional medicine to treat dysentery, diarrhea, and other digestive problems. The fiber from the inner bark was also used for making baskets, fishing nets, and some kinds of rope. The leaves of the whau tree were used for making traditional greenstone ear pendants. The wood of the tree was used for making walking sticks and some types of furniture.
Conservation Status:
The introduction of numerous mammalian predators and degradation of the habitat has led to the decline in the numbers of the whau tree. Consequently, the plant is now listed as "At Risk: Declining" under the New Zealand Threat Classification System. However, some efforts have been made to protect and conserve the plant, including planting seedlings in nurseries and restoring degraded habitats.
Light Requirements
Entelea arborescens typically thrives in full sunlight. It requires at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to grow properly. However, the plant can also tolerate partial shade, especially during the hottest months of the year.
Temperature Requirements
Entelea arborescens requires a warm and humid environment for proper growth. It grows optimally at temperatures between 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. Temperatures above or below this range may cause stunted growth or death of the plant. The plant needs protection from frost and cold winds to prevent damage.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained, fertile, and slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. It prefers soils that are rich in organic matter, as these provide nutrients and retain moisture. Entelea arborescens is also tolerant of sandy or clay soils, but these should be amended to improve drainage and nutrient content.
Cultivation methods
The Entelea arborescens plant is a shrub that grows up to 3-4 meters tall, and it is native to New Zealand. The cultivation of this plant requires a lot of space because it tends to spread out. To cultivate this plant, it is essential to ensure it is in a sunny location with fertile, well-draining soil. It also needs protection from strong winds and frost, which can damage the plant.
Watering needs
The Entelea arborescens plant thrives in moist soil and requires regular watering during hot and dry weather conditions. However, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant because it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The Entelea arborescens plant does not require regular fertilization, but it can benefit from a dose of fertilizer during its growing season. A slow-release fertilizer applied during spring will provide sufficient nutrients for the plant to grow healthy and strong. It is crucial to avoid over-fertilization, which can cause problems such as root burn.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the Entelea arborescens plant, but it is essential to remove dead or damaged branches and stems. The best time to prune is during the plant's dormant period, which is during winter. Pruning is also necessary to limit the plant's spread if it is growing too large for its designated space. It is important to use clean and sharp tools when pruning to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Entelea arborescens
Entelea arborescens, commonly known as the Whau Tree, is native to New Zealand and is known for its showy white flowers and large, heart-shaped leaves. Propagating this plant allows gardeners to expand their collection or share it with others.
Seed Propagation
Propagating Entelea arborescens using seeds is relatively easy, but it requires patience. Harvest seeds from the plant once the flowers fade and the fruit is ripe, typically in autumn. The seeds are then sown into seedling trays filled with a well-draining mix of sand, peat, and bark. Cover the seeds lightly with mix, and keep them moist and warm. Germination can take several weeks to a few months, and the seedlings need to be watered regularly.
Cuttings
Another propagation method is taking semi-hardwood cuttings from the plant. This is typically done in late spring or early summer. Select healthy, non-flowering branches and take 15 to 20 cm cuttings. Remove the leaves from the bottom two-thirds of the cutting and dip it into rooting hormone powder. Insert the cutting into a pot with a well-draining mix of sand and peat, and keep it moist, but not waterlogged.
Air layering
If you want to propagate a mature Entelea arborescens plant, then air layering is a useful method. Make a cut about one-third of the way into a healthy stem, and wrap a handful of peat moss around the cut. Wrap the peat moss with plastic wrap and seal it with tape at both ends. The moss will stay moist, and new roots should emerge in a few weeks. Cut the rooted stem from the parent plant and plant it directly into a pot filled with a well-draining mix of sand and peat.
Disease and Pest Management for Entelea Arborescens
Entelea arborescens, commonly known as the Whau tree, is generally hardy and disease-resistant. Proper care and attention usually prevent any significant issues that may arise. However, the plant can be affected by few pests, and occasional disease outbreaks may occur. Here are some common diseases and pest management methods for Entelea arborescens:
Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from plant stems, leaves, and flowers. The leaves of a Whau tree infested with aphids will be curled, yellow, or distorted. These pests can be managed by spraying the tree with a jet of water to knock them off. Alternatively, you can apply neem oil spray or insecticidal soap to control their population.
2. Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies and can cause significant damage to the Whau tree by consuming the leaves. Handpick and remove visible caterpillars or apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to kill them effectively.
3. Scales: Scale insects are tiny, oval-shaped pests with a waxy protective coating. They can affect the Whau tree, mainly the underside of the leaves and stems. The scales will cause discoloration, stunted growth, and black mold. Use horticultural oil or neem oil to suffocate the pests and treat the plant.
Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew typically grows on the surface of the leaves as white, powdery spots. This disease thrives in high humidity and low light conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure adequate plant spacing, and provide good airflow and sunlight. Consider using a fungicide to treat an infested tree.
2. Leaf Spot: Leaf spot affects the leaves of the Whau tree, causing yellow or brown spots on the leaf surface. Overhead watering and poorly drained soil contribute to this disease. Remove infected leaves and ensure proper irrigation to prevent the spread of leaf spot. Also, consider using a fungicide spray to control.
3. Root rot: Root rot is a severe problem caused by fungal spores. Whau trees infected with root rot show signs of wilting and yellowing, followed by leaf drop. Overwatering and poor drainage contribute to this disease. Remove infected plants, and treat the soil with a fungicide to protect the roots of other plants from getting the disease.
By applying these disease and pest management methods, your Whau tree can flourish and remain a beautiful addition to your garden.
