Origin and Common Names
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff is a succulent plant that is native to Hawaii. It is known by many different common names, including 'akoko, akoko kuahiwi, akoko makole, and koali 'awa.
Appearance
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff is a small shrub that grows up to 2 meters tall. It has fleshy stems and leaves that are green and shiny. The plant has a smooth, blue-green color, and the stems are often streaked with red or purple. The flowers are small and yellow-green in color, and they often bloom in clusters. The plant produces milky sap that is toxic and can cause skin irritation, so caution should be exercised when handling it.
Uses
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff has been used in traditional Hawaiian medicine for a number of different purposes. The sap of the plant has been used to treat skin conditions such as cuts, burns, and rashes. It has also been used as a laxative and as a treatment for stomach problems. The plant is sometimes used by modern-day herbalists for its purported anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Beyond its medicinal uses, Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff is also used for landscaping and ornamental purposes. Its striking appearance and unique growth habit make it a popular choice for gardens and outdoor spaces in Hawaii and beyond.
Light Requirements
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff prefers bright and direct sunlight. It grows best in areas with partial shade that receive at least 6 hours of sunlight daily. Lack of sufficient light may result in the plant growing taller and thinner than it should, and may also affect the production of flowers and fruits.
Temperature Requirements
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff is native to tropical and subtropical regions. Therefore, it thrives in warm to hot temperatures between 60 to 90°F (15 to 32°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can damage or kill the plant. It is important to protect the plant from frost during the winter months as it does not tolerate freezing temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can grow in a variety of soil types like sandy, loamy, and clayey soils. Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff prefers a soil that is rich in organic matter and has good aeration. Adding organic mulch to the soil can help retain water and reduce soil erosion.
Cultivation Methods
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff is a relatively easy plant to cultivate, and it grows well in most soils as long as it is well-drained. It can be grown in full sun to partial shade, and it thrives in warm environments with consistent temperatures.
The plant can be propagated from stem cuttings or by seed. If propagating from stem cuttings, allow the cuttings to dry for several days before planting, as this will help prevent rotting.
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff can be grown indoors as well as outdoors. When grown indoors, ensure that the plant receives ample sunlight or carefully supplement the amount it receives with artificial light. If growing indoors, be sure to provide adequate ventilation as this plant is susceptible to fungal infections.
Watering Needs
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff requires moderate watering. Water the plant only when the soil is dry to the touch, and avoid overwatering. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can be deadly to this plant. Watering once a week should be sufficient, but frequency may vary depending on the environmental conditions.
Fertilization
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff does not require a lot of fertilization. However, adding a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season can be beneficial. A complete fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is suitable for this plant. Avoid fertilizing during the dormant season.
Pruning
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff requires minimal pruning. Remove any dead or damaged plant parts as they appear. Wear gloves when pruning as the plant's sap can be toxic upon contact with the skin. If the plant becomes too tall or leggy, it can be pruned back to encourage bushier growth. Prune in the spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff is best propagated by vegetative means. Although they can also be propagated by seeds, this method requires specialized techniques for breaking dormancy which can be quite tricky. Therefore, propagation by cuttings is recommended.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation by cuttings can be done by taking stem cuttings, usually from the apical parts of the plant. The cutting should be about 8-10 cm long and must have at least two leaves. The best time to take cuttings is during the growing season when the plant is actively producing new growth.
Once the cutting is obtained, it is recommended to let it dry or callus for a few days before planting it in soil. This can be done by placing the cutting in a warm and dry location, away from direct sunlight.
The cuttings should then be planted in a well-drained soil mixture and kept in a warm and humid environment until roots start to develop. This can be achieved by covering the cuttings with plastic bags or placing them in a propagator.
Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly in the garden if the conditions are favorable. It is recommended to do this during the spring or summer months when the plant is actively growing.
Disease Management
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff is relatively resistant to diseases but can be susceptible to fungal infections that cause leaf spots and blight. Overwatering and high humidity levels can increase the likelihood of these diseases. To manage fungal infections, it is essential to ensure adequate drainage and maintain proper humidity levels. In severe cases, it may be necessary to apply fungicides.
Pest Management
Several pests can infest Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. kapuleiensis O. Deg. & Sherff, including spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. Spider mites are the most common pests that affect this plant, and they usually infest the underside of leaves, causing yellowing and bronzing. Mealybugs and scale insects can also cause leaf drop and stunted growth.
To manage these pests, it is essential to regularly inspect the plant and remove any infected areas. A gentle spray of water can help dislodge spider mites and mealybugs. In severe infestations, it may be necessary to apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. It is also essential to maintain proper hygiene, such as cleaning up any fallen leaves or debris, to prevent pest re-infestation.
