Overview of Gouldia terminalis
Gouldia Terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. glabra Fosberg is a flowering plant endemic to Hawaii. It is commonly referred to by several names, including Ohe, Ohe nani, and Hawaiian trumpet, among others. This plant is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae, or pea family.
Appearance of Gouldia terminalis
The Hawaiian trumpet has a striking appearance. It grows up to 30 feet in height and has a wide canopy with a spread of 20 feet. The bark is gray-brown with furrows and shallow ridges. Its branches are quite irregular, with some heavily covered in foliage, while others appear bare. The leaves are large, glossy green, and lance-shaped. The flowers are bright red and trumpet-shaped, with long stamens and pistils. The plant produces long seed pods that measure up to 8 inches in length.
Uses of Gouldia terminalis
Before Western contact, the Hawaiians utilized Gouldia terminalis for a variety of traditional purposes. They would use the wood to make weapons, tools, musical instruments, and even skateboards. The flower buds were eaten raw or cooked, and the leaves were used in traditional medicine.
Today, Gouldia terminalis has lost its practical use in Hawaii. Many consider it a precious ornamental plant that helps to preserve Hawaii's unique and rich biodiversity. Gardeners and horticulturists cultivate the Hawaiian Trumpet, using it in landscaping to create a focal point of vibrant color and the iconic Hawaii aesthetic. The Hawaiian trumpet also provides a nectar source for honey bees and other pollinating insects.
Growth Conditions of Gouldia Terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. Glabra Fosberg
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. glabra Fosberg, commonly known as the Santa Catalina Island mountain mahogany, is a species of evergreen shrub that belongs to the rose family. This plant is commonly found in the coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats on Santa Catalina Island and other Channel Islands of California.
Light Requirements
Gouldia terminalis requires full exposure to sunlight, making it suitable for growth in areas where the sun is directly overhead for most of the day. The plant does not tolerate shade and may show stunted growth when grown in a shaded area.
Temperature Requirements
The Santa Catalina Island mountain mahogany is adapted to growing in a Mediterranean climate which is characterized by cool, wet winters and hot, dry summers with an annual average temperature of about 64°F. The plant can tolerate temperatures between 20°F and 110°F; however, it can suffer frost damage if temperatures fall below 20°F for a prolonged period.
Soil Requirements
Gouldia terminalis thrives in well-drained, rocky, and sandy soils with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. The plant tolerates poor soil conditions, which makes it suitable for growth in soil that may not be ideal for other plants. However, it requires a soil that is rich in organic matter and minerals for optimal growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. glabra Fosberg, also known as Hawaiian maile, is a slow-growing shrub or small tree that can reach up to 25 feet in height. It is native to Hawaii and prefers warm temperatures and high humidity.
The plant can be grown in full sun or partial shade and requires well-drained soil. It is tolerant of a wide range of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clayey soils but prefers a slightly acidic soil pH between 5.5 to 6.5.
Propagation can be done using stem cuttings or seeds, but stem cuttings are more commonly used. The cuttings should be taken from the current year's growth and should be around 6-8 inches long. They should be planted in rooting medium and kept in a bright location with high humidity until they root.
Watering Needs
Hawaiian Maile requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. It is essential to keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged, as it can cause root rot. The frequency of watering will depend on the soil type, season, and climate. Check the soil's moisture level before watering and adjust as necessary.
During the winter season, decrease the watering frequency to avoid overwatering.
Fertilization
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. glabra Fosberg does not require heavy fertilizing. A light application of a balanced fertilizer can be done once every three months during the growing season, from spring to fall. Avoid fertilizing during the winter season, as it is a dormant period for the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is not required, but it can be done to control the plant size and shape. Prune after the blooming season, between late fall and winter. Remove damaged, diseased, or dead branches. It is also recommended to thin out overly dense branches to encourage better air circulation and light penetration.
When pruning, use clean and sharp pruning shears to prevent tearing or damaging the plant tissue. Always sterilize your pruning shears with rubbing alcohol before and after pruning to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. glabra Fosberg
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. glabra Fosberg, commonly known as "mau'u 'aki 'aki," is a shrub native to Hawaii. It grows in dry, rocky areas and its yellow flowers bloom in the summer. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Gouldia terminalis can be done through seed germination. The seeds need to be collected from ripe fruit pods in late summer or early fall. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing to enhance germination. The seeds should be sowed in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm and humid location. The seeds should germinate in 2-4 weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Gouldia terminalis can also be propagated through stem cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant during the spring or early summer. The cuttings should be approximately 4-6 inches long and include a few sets of leaves. The lower leaves should be removed and the cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone. The cuttings should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm and humid location. The cuttings should root in 4-6 weeks.
Division Propagation
Propagation of Gouldia terminalis can also be done through division. The plant should be dug up and separated into smaller sections. Each section should have a few stems and roots attached to it. The sections should be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept in a warm and humid location until they establish new roots. The best time for division propagation is in the early spring before new growth appears.
Propagation of Gouldia terminalis can be done through several methods, including seed germination, stem cuttings, and division. With proper care and attention, propagation of this plant can be a rewarding experience for any gardener.
Disease Management
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. glabra Fosberg is generally a healthy plant, but it may be susceptible to some diseases. One common disease that affects this plant is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew appears as a white or gray powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers. It can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and ensuring good air circulation around the plant. In case of an outbreak, fungicides that contain sulfur or potassium bicarbonate may be used to manage the disease.
Another disease that may affect Gouldia terminalis is root rot. The plant is vulnerable to this disease if it is over-watered or planted in poorly-draining soil. To manage root rot, remove any infected roots and switch to a well-draining soil mix. Avoid over-watering the plant and ensure good soil drainage.
Pest Management
Gouldia terminalis may also be prone to pest attacks. One common pest that may affect the plant is the spider mite. Spider mites are tiny pests that suck sap from the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. They can be managed by spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Another pest that may attack Gouldia terminalis is aphids. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant. They can be managed by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soap. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and may be introduced to the garden to control their population.
Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of pests or disease and taking prompt action can help ensure the health and vitality of Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. glabra Fosberg.
