Introduction
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. lanai Fosberg, commonly known as `makahala`, is a small shrub that is native to the Hawaiian Islands. It belongs to the family of Rhamnaceae, and it grows in the dry forest regions of the Hawaiian archipelago.Description
Makahala is a slow-growing plant that can reach a height of up to three meters. It has twisted branches that often form a tangled mass of foliage. The leaves are oblong to ovate and are about five to eight centimeters long and two to three centimeters wide. They have a glossy, dark green upper surface and a pale green underside. The flowers of the plant are typically white and are borne in small clusters on the axils of the leaves. The fruit of makahala is a small, flattened capsule that contains a single seed.Uses
Makahala has several uses in traditional Hawaiian medicine. The plant has been used as a laxative and as a remedy for earaches. The bark of the plant is also used in the treatment of liver ailments. The wood of the plant is hard and durable, making it ideal for the production of utensils and other household items.Conservation Status
Makahala is considered an endangered species in the state of Hawaii. The plant is under threat due to the loss of its natural habitat and the introduction of invasive species. The conservation status of makahala has been listed as critically endangered. The government of Hawaii has taken steps to protect the plant by prohibiting the collection of its wood and fruit without a permit.Conclusion
In conclusion, Gouldia terminalis var. lanai Fosberg is a slow-growing shrub that is native to the Hawaiian Islands. The plant has several traditional medicinal uses and is valued for its durable wood. The conservation status of the plant is critically endangered, and its survival depends on the efforts of conservationists and government agencies.Light Requirements
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. lanai Fosberg grows best in full sun exposure. This plant requires a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. Lack of sunlight can cause the plant to become leggy and weak, resulting in poor growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. lanai Fosberg prefers warm temperatures and does well in the range of 60-85°F (16-29°C). During colder months, the temperature should not drop below 50°F (10°C), as this can harm the plant. Additionally, extreme heat is also not suitable for the plant as it can cause sunburn or dryness.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. lanai Fosberg should be well-draining, porous, and rich in organic matter. A slightly acidic soil with pH ranging between 5.0-6.5 is the best for optimal growth. The plant does not tolerate waterlogged soil and will develop root rot if left in standing water for extended periods. Adding compost or peat moss to the soil can provide adequate nutrients for the plant.
Cultivation methods
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. lanai Fosberg, commonly known as Lana'i tree, is a slow-growing plant species indigenous to the Hawaiian Islands. The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings. It can be grown in the ground or in containers, but it prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6-7. The plant grows best in full sun to partial shade environments.
Watering needs
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. lanai Fosberg prefers moderate watering. It is essential to water the plant immediately after planting to help establish a healthy root system. Afterward, watering the plant once a week is sufficient, but it should be watered more often in hot and dry weather conditions. The ideal soil moisture content should be between 50-75 percent of field capacity.
Fertilization
Applying organic or inorganic fertilizers during the growing season can be beneficial for the growth and development of the plant. Applying NPK fertilizers with a ratio of 4-1-3 can provide optimal growth conditions for the plant. Fertilizers should be applied at least once every month during the growing season and should be watered deeply after fertilization to reduce the risk of overfertilization.
Pruning
Pruning Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. lanai Fosberg is essential to improve plant health, promote growth, and maintain an appealing appearance. Pruning can be done at any time of the year. It is recommended to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches immediately. Pruning should be done selectively to ensure the natural shape of the plant is maintained. Over-pruning the plant can lead to a reduction in growth rates and a decrease in the number of flowers produced.
Propagation of Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. lanai Fosberg
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. lanai Fosberg, commonly known as 'ohe or t?ne maika'i, is a rare Hawaiian shrub that belongs to the pea family. The plant is endemic to Lanai Island, Hawaii and is often found in dry and mesic forests. Propagation can be done through several methods, which include:
Seed propagation
The easiest and most common method for propagating Gouldia terminalis var. lanai is through seeds. The seeds are easily harvested from the mature pods of the plant. Once harvested, the seeds should be cleaned and scarified to break the seed coat for effective germination. Sow the seeds in soil mix or peat pots in a greenhouse or protected area, ensuring they have enough moisture and temperature for germination. It can take up to 6 months for the seedlings to establish and should transplanted to its permanent location after several true leaves have emerged.
Cuttings
Another propagation method is through the use of cuttings. The plant's stem cuttings or softwood cuttings can be taken in summer or spring, months when the plant has new growth. The cuttings should be treated with rooting hormones and inserted into well-draining soil and adequately watered. The cuttings should be placed in a protected area and kept moist, but not overly wet, until roots have developed. The cuttings can be transplanted to their final location once the roots are established.
Air layering
Air layering is another propagation method suitable for Gouldia terminalis var. lanai. This method involves girdling the stem of the plant and applying rooting hormones or moss to encourage the development of roots. Once the roots are established, the newly rooted plant can be cut from the parent plant and planted in a new location.
Disease Management
Gouldia terminalis var. lanai is susceptible to several diseases that can limit its growth and development. Some of the common diseases that affect the plant include:
- Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes circular spots on the leaves of the plant. The spots are usually brown or black and can cause the leaves to wither and die. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and destroy them immediately. Fungicides can also be used to prevent further spread of the disease.
- Powdery Mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes white powdery patches on the leaves of the plant. The patches can expand and cause the leaves to turn yellow and drop off. To manage powdery mildew, spray the plant with a fungicide and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Pest Management
Gouldia terminalis var. lanai is also susceptible to several pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some of the common pests that affect the plant include:
- Spider Mites: These are small insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to turn yellow and wither. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with acaricides and ensure good humidity around the plant.
- Thrips: These are tiny insects that feed on the plant's leaves, causing them to curl and turn brown. To manage thrips, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
