Overview
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. crassicaulis Fosberg is a flowering plant that belongs to the Hydrangeaceae family. It is also known by several common names, including bird-eye bush and Hawaii holly.
Origin
This plant is native to Hawaii, where it thrives in dry to mesic forests and shrublands from sea level to about 4,000 feet elevation.
Description
Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis is a shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall. It has a single trunk and a spreading canopy of branches. The plant produces large clusters of tiny, fragrant, white flowers, which are followed by small, red to black fruit.
The leaves of this plant are glossy and dark green, with a sharp tip and slightly serrated edge. They grow in an alternate pattern on the branches and are arranged in a spiraling pattern.
Uses
The bird-eye bush has various uses in Hawaiian culture. Its leaves were traditionally used to make lei, while its wood was used for carving and construction purposes. The plant also has medicinal properties and has been used to treat a variety of ailments, such as cuts, bruises, and coughs.
Today, the plant is primarily used for ornamental purposes, as it is an attractive and low-maintenance addition to landscapes and gardens.
Light Requirements
Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis prefers full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can grow well in areas with high levels of sunlight. Avoid shady and densely shaded areas as it may hinder its growth and possibly result in stunted growth and lower production of flowers and fruits.
Temperature Requirements
This plant variety prefers warm climates and moderate temperatures. It grows well in temperatures ranging from 15 to 30°C (59 to 86°F). However, it can tolerate temperature fluctuations up to a certain extent, making it possible to grow it in different regions with varying temperatures. This plant variety can survive in colder temperatures, but it will not grow as fast or large as those in warmer climates.
Soil Requirements
The plant Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis prefers well-drained and moderately fertile soils. It can grow well in different soil types, such as loamy soils, sandy soils, and volcanic soils, but it cannot tolerate waterlogged soils. Adding some organic matter can benefit the plant by improving soil fertility and soil structure. This plant variety can grow in slightly acidic to neutral soils, making it adaptable to various soil pH levels.
Cultivation Methods for Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. crassicaulis Fosberg
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. crassicaulis Fosberg is a shrub that is native to California, Arizona, and Northwestern Mexico. It prefers well-draining, sandy soils with a pH of 6 to 7.5. This plant can be grown in full sun or partial shade. When starting a new plant, it's best to use a container with well-draining soil. Once established, it can be transplanted to a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Watering Needs for Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. crassicaulis Fosberg
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. crassicaulis Fosberg requires a moderate amount of water. It should be watered deeply every two to three weeks, depending on the soil, temperature, and humidity. The soil should be allowed to dry out slightly between waterings, but not completely. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's important to avoid this. However, if the plant is grown in a container, it may require more frequent watering than if it were planted in the ground.
Fertilization for Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. crassicaulis Fosberg
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. crassicaulis Fosberg doesn't require frequent fertilization, but it can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring. It's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions when applying fertilizer, as too much can damage the plant. Organic fertilizers, such as compost or well-aged manure, can also be used.
Pruning Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. crassicaulis Fosberg
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. crassicaulis Fosberg can be pruned lightly in the spring to control the plant's shape and promote branching. It's best to avoid heavy pruning, as this can reduce flowers and fruit production. Dead or diseased branches should be removed promptly to avoid the spread of disease. It's also recommended to remove any suckers or shoots that emerge from the base of the plant or near the roots, as they can compete with the main plant for resources.
Propagation of Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis
Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds are the most common method used to propagate Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground in a prepared bed or started indoors in trays. It is important to scarify the seeds by nicking the hard seed coat with a sharp blade or soaking them in hot water for a few hours before planting to encourage germination.
Propagation by Cuttings
Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis can also be propagated by taking stem cuttings. The best time to take cuttings is during the spring or early summer months when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from the current year's growth and should be around 4-6 inches long. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone before sticking it into a pot filled with soilless potting mix. Keep the potting mix moist and place the pot in a shaded area until roots have formed.
Propagation by Division
Propagation by division involves separating the plant into smaller sections, each with its own root system. This method is best done during the early spring months before new growth has started. Carefully dig up the plant, separate the root system into smaller sections, and replant each section in a prepared bed or container filled with well-draining soil.
Disease Management
Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis is a relatively hardy plant species that is not particularly prone to disease outbreaks. However, it may occasionally be affected by various fungal and bacterial infections that can lead to significant damage or even plant death if left untreated.
One of the most common diseases that affect Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis is powdery mildew. This fungal infection is easily recognizable by the white or grayish powdery substance that appears on the leaves, stems, and flowers of infected plants. To manage powdery mildew, it is essential to ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Several fungicides are also available that can help to control powdery mildew outbreaks.
Another disease that may affect Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis is root rot. This condition is typically caused by overwatering and can lead to wilting, yellowing, and ultimately death of the plant. To avoid root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering. In case of infection, it is recommended to remove the infected plant to prevent the spread of the disease to other plants.
Pest Management
Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis is relatively resistant to pest infestations. However, there are several pests that may still affect the plant and cause significant damage.
One of the most common pests that may infest Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis is aphids. These small, soft-bodied insects suck sap from the plant, which can lead to stunted growth, deformities, and even death. To manage aphids, it is recommended to spray the plant with a solution of soapy water. In severe cases, insecticides such as pyrethroids can also be used.
Another pest that may affect Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis is thrips. These tiny insects feed on the leaves and flowers of the plant, causing a stippled appearance and discoloration. To manage thrips, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or a systemic insecticide.
Finally, spider mites may also infest Gouldia terminalis var. crassicaulis. These tiny arachnids suck sap from the plant, causing leaves to yellow and eventually drop off. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to use insecticidal soap or a miticide.
