Overview:
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. parvifolia (Wawra) Fosberg is a species of flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae. It is native to the Hawaiian and Marquesas Islands. The plant is recognized for its unique appearance which makes it a key feature in landscaping design. It has also been traditionally used for medicinal purposes.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known as 'Ohe kikila and 'Ohe mauka in the Hawaiian language. In English, it is referred to as the Dwarf Gouldia.
Appearance:
The Dwarf Gouldia grows as a small tree or shrub, reaching a height of up to 20 feet. Its leaves are lanceolate, glossy, and measure 3-5 inches long. The flowers are small and white, and they bloom in clusters. The plant produces fruits that resemble berries, initially green but turn black when they ripen.
Uses:
The Dwarf Gouldia is popularly grown as an ornamental plant in Hawaii, where it is used for landscaping, particularly as border plants and hedges. Its attractive foliage and fruit make it a noteworthy garden feature. The plant also has some traditional medicinal uses, including as a remedy for respiratory ailments, skin infections, and toothaches.
Light Requirements
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. parvifolia is a sun-loving plant and requires a lot of light to grow successfully. It is best grown in areas where it can get direct sunlight for at least 6-8 hours a day. However, it can also grow in partial shade, but too much shade can hinder its growth and lead to leggy and weak plants.
Temperature Requirements
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. parvifolia requires warm temperatures to thrive. It grows best in areas where the temperature ranges from 20°C to 32°C. It can tolerate temperatures up to 40°C in areas with low humidity. However, it cannot tolerate temperatures below 10°C and may suffer frost damage in such conditions.
Soil Requirements
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. parvifolia requires well-draining soil for optimal growth. It thrives best in sandy soils with a pH between 5.0 and 7.0. The soil should be rich in nutrients and have good water retention capacity. However, it cannot tolerate waterlogged soil, and overwatering can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Method
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. parvifolia (Wawra) Fosberg or 'Kukui' tree is a perennial tree that prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clayey, but does best in fertile soils. The seedlings can be planted in the ground or pots and require plenty of space for growth. The planting hole should be at least twice the size of the root ball with adequate drainage.
Watering Needs
The 'Kukui' tree is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the tree deeply when the soil is dry to a depth of 3-4 inches. Established trees can go without water for several weeks, but young trees need regular watering to establish a healthy root system. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it's essential to ensure proper drainage.
Fertilization
The 'Kukui' tree does not need regular fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer applied in the early spring can aid in growth and development. Use a slow-release fertilizer, or a liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid applying fertilizers during the dry season or when the tree is experiencing stress.
Pruning
Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. The 'Kukui' tree develops a rounded shape naturally, but pruning can help maintain the desired size and shape. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches as soon as you notice them. The plant produces suckers from the base that should be removed to prevent overcrowding. Avoid pruning too much of the canopy as it can impact the overall health of the tree.
Propagation of Gouldia terminalis var. parvifolia
Gouldia terminalis var. parvifolia is propagated through various techniques including seed propagation, cutting propagation, and division.
Seed Propagation
Seeds obtained from the plant should be soaked in water for approximately 24 hours before planting. This pre-treatment helps to soften the seed-coat and improve the chances of germination. The seeds are then planted in well-draining soil and kept moist. Germination typically takes between 2-4 weeks. Seedlings should only be transplanted once they are strong enough to survive the transplanting process.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another useful technique for propagating Gouldia terminalis var. parvifolia. Softwood cuttings should be taken from the plant ideally in the spring or early summer when new growth is emerging. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and they should be approximately 4-6 inches in length. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone before being placed in a container filled with a well-draining soil mix. Place the container in a location that receives bright, indirect sunlight and keep the soil moist. Rooting typically occurs in 6-8 weeks.
Division
Gouldia terminalis can be propagated through division. The plant can be carefully dug up and the roots separated into individual plants. This technique is typically done in the winter when the plant is dormant. The newly separated plants can then be replanted in their own containers or directly into the ground.
Disease and Pest Management for Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. parvifolia (Wawra) Fosberg
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. parvifolia (Wawra) Fosberg, commonly known as the Ghost Flower, is a delicate, evergreen shrub that is native to Baja California. The plant requires minimal care; however, they are susceptible to certain diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
The following are the common diseases that might affect Gouldia terminalis:
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes the leaves to develop brown spots, which eventually turn into holes. The best preventive measure is to keep the foliage dry by watering at the base of the plant. Remove the affected leaves and dispose of them properly.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by a soil-borne pathogen and results in the death of the plant. Overwatering and poorly drained soil are the main culprits. To prevent root rot, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and water it only when the top layer of soil is dry.
Pest Management
Gouldia terminalis is not prone to pests; however, the following can be potential problems:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the plant's sap, causing the leaves to curl. They can be eliminated by spraying the plant with a stream of water or by using insecticidal soap.
- Mealybugs: These insects infest the foliage and produce a white, powdery substance. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and rubbing alcohol or by using insecticidal soap.
By taking preventive measures and addressing any problems immediately, Gouldia terminalis can thrive and remain free from diseases and pests.
