Origin
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff, commonly known as Mohihi Pencil Milkbush, is a species of plant in the euphorbia family Euphorbiaceae. The plant is endemic to Hawaii and can be found on Kauai and Niihau islands.
Common Names
Mohihi Pencil Milkbush is also known as Mohihi Spurge, Kaua'i Euphorbia, and Hooker's Wood Spurge.
Uses
The sap of Mohihi Pencil Milkbush is toxic and can cause severe skin irritation, so it is not recommended to use the plant for traditional medicine. However, it is prized for its ornamental value and is grown as an indoor or outdoor plant. The plant's small size and unique shape make it an excellent choice for succulent gardens and dish gardens.
General Appearance
Mohihi Pencil Milkbush is a small, stemless, succulent shrub that grows up to 20cm in height. The stem of the plant is cylindrical and covered with tiny, scale-like leaves. The plant has bright green, needle-like leaves that grow in whorls around the stem, giving it a distinctive pencil-like appearance. Its flowers are small, yellow-green, and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant blooms in spring and summer, producing small, round brown capsules that contain seeds.
Light Requirements
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff requires bright, direct sunlight to grow at its best. Adequate sunlight ensures that the plant grows upright and healthy. However, care should be taken to avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight for prolonged periods as it can harm the plant.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures with a range of 60 to 90°F (15 to 32°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause damage to the plant, and frost can kill the plant. It is recommended to provide a temperature-controlled environment, especially during the winter months.
Soil Requirements
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff grows well in well-draining and aerated soil. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. The soil should also be rich in organic matter, such as compost, to provide necessary nutrients to the plant. Care should be taken to ensure that the soil is not too wet as it can cause root rot, which can lead to death of the plant.
Water Requirements
The plant requires moderate moisture to grow properly. The soil should be kept slightly moist, but care should be taken not to overwater the plant. Overwatering can cause root rot, leading to the death of the plant. Watering once or twice a week is usually sufficient depending on the environment. Careful observation is important to ensure that the plant is not lacking water or being overwatered.
Cultivation Methods
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff, commonly known as Mohihi Pencil Euphorbia, is a slow-growing succulent that thrives in warm, dry climates. This plant loves plenty of sunlight, so it's best to keep it in full sun or partial shade. The Mohihi Pencil Euphorbia requires well-draining soil and should be planted in a pot with drainage holes on the bottom to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Needs
The Mohihi Pencil Euphorbia is a drought-tolerant plant, meaning it can survive long periods of time without water. However, it's still important to water the plant regularly during the hot, dry summer months. You can water the plant once every two weeks or when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Water the plant deeply but let the soil dry out between waterings to avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization
The Mohihi Pencil Euphorbia doesn't need a lot of fertilizer, but you can fertilize it once or twice a month during the growing season (spring and summer). You can use a balanced, liquid fertilizer that's diluted to half the recommended strength. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months, as it goes into dormancy at that time.
Pruning
The Mohihi Pencil Euphorbia doesn't require too much pruning, but you can pinch back the tips of the stems to encourage branching and promote a fuller plant. If the plant gets too leggy, you can cut back the stems to a node or leaf. Wear gloves when pruning the plant because its milky sap can irritate the skin and eyes.
Propagation of Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff can be propagated through several methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation from seeds is the most common method for Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff. Mature seeds should be collected from the plant during its blooming period. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil and keep them in a warm and humid environment. It is recommended to cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. The germination period for the seeds varies from 1 to 3 months.
Cuttings Propagation
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff can also be propagated through cuttings. Select a healthy stem from the mother plant and cut a 4 to the 5-inch section with a sharp and sterilized knife. Allow the cutting to dry for a few hours before planting it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and ensure that the cutting is in a warm, shaded, and humid place. New growth should appear within 2 to 4 weeks, indicating that the cutting has rooted successfully.
Grafting Propagation
Grafting can also be used to propagate Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff. This method involves attaching the desired cultivar to a related rootstock. The benefit of grafting is that the new plant will have the beneficial traits of both plants, and the growth rate is typically faster than other methods. Grafting should be done in the early spring, and the plant should be kept in a warm and humid place until new growth appears.
Propagation of Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff can be done relatively easily using any of the above methods. With proper care, the new plant should thrive and grow to maturity, providing the gardener with a beautiful addition to their collection.
Disease and Pest Management for Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff
Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff is a hardy plant that seldom suffers from serious pest or disease problems. However, some pests and diseases can affect the plant's growth and appearance. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
1. Fungal Diseases
Fungal diseases like powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot can affect the Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff plant. These diseases can cause leaf yellowing, wilting, and even death. To manage fungal diseases, remove infected plant parts, avoid overhead irrigation, and improve air circulation by pruning and thinning the plant. Use fungicides as a last resort, and follow the label instructions carefully.
2. Mealybugs
Mealybugs are one of the most common pests that attack Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff plants. These insects feed on the sap of the plant and cause stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of leaves. To control mealybugs, gently wipe the plant with a soft cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol. Alternatively, you can use insecticidal soaps or neem oil spray to control mealybugs. Repeat the treatment every two weeks until the infestation is under control.
3. Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the plant's sap and cause leaf discoloration, stunted growth, and defoliation. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge them. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Repeat the treatment every two weeks until the spider mites are eradicated.
4. Scale Insects
Scale insects are common pests that feed on the sap of the Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff plant. These insects form a hard shell that protects them from insecticides and other control measures. To control scale insects, use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to remove them manually. Alternatively, you can use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
Overall, Euphorbia multiformis Hook. & Arn. var. mohihiensis Sherff is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal pest and disease management. By following the recommended practices, you can keep this plant healthy and beautiful.
