Origin
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. rotundifolia Fosberg, commonly known as Round-leaf Gouilia, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. The plant is native to the Pacific region, specifically to the islands of Hawaii, where it is widely distributed.
Common Names
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. rotundifolia Fosberg is commonly referred to as Round-leaf Gouilia, K?'iko'i (in Hawaiian language), and Hawaiian Ixora.
Uses
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. rotundifolia Fosberg has various uses. The Hawaiians used the plant as a traditional medicine to treat mild infections and skin wounds. The bark of the plant was also used to make dye and was used to create unique clothing. The plant is also popular among horticulturists for landscaping purposes due to its unique foliage and flowers.
General Appearance
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. rotundifolia Fosberg is a small, perennial shrub that grows up to 2 meters tall. The plant has glossy dark green leaves that are leathery, round, and up to 8 centimeters in diameter. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs and are densely packed on the stems. The flowers of the plant are fragrant, tubular, and arranged in compact clusters at the tip of the stems. The flowers are 2 centimeters in length and are either white or yellow, depending on the variety. The fruit of the plant is a small, black, and fleshy berry that is edible.
Light Requirements
Gouldia terminalis requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as profusely in low-light conditions. It is best to plant this species where it can receive abundant sunlight for most of the day.
Temperature Requirements
As a native plant of Hawaii, Gouldia terminalis prefers warm temperatures between 60-85°F (15.5-29.5°C). It can tolerate some fluctuation in temperature but prefers consistent warm weather. If temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C), it may experience leaf drop or dieback.
Soil Requirements
Gouldia terminalis prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. However, it does not tolerate soils that are constantly saturated or prone to flooding. Ensure the soil pH remains between 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth and development.
Cultivation Methods
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. rotundifolia Fosberg is a tropical plant that thrives best in a warm and humid environment. It requires partial to full sunlight and well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant is propagated by stem cuttings or seeds, and it is essential to select healthy and disease-free specimens for cultivation.
Watering Needs
Watering Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. rotundifolia Fosberg should be done regularly but moderately. The plant prefers moist soil, but it can't tolerate waterlogging. During hot and dry weather, the plant may require more frequent watering, but it is essential to avoid overwatering.
Fertilization
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. rotundifolia Fosberg requires regular fertilization during the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall. Use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, and apply it every two to four weeks. Fertilization should be reduced or stopped during winter to prevent new growth from sustaining cold damage.
Pruning
Pruning Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. rotundifolia Fosberg is necessary to maintain a bushy and compact shape. It is best done during the dormant season, which is typically in late winter or early spring. Use sterilized pruning shears to cut back any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Thin out any overcrowded or crossing branches to increase air circulation and light penetration. Avoid over-pruning, as it may stunt the plant's growth and reduce its overall health.
Propagation of Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. rotundifolia Fosberg
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. rotundifolia Fosberg is a woody shrub that propagates easily through different methods. Some of the commonly used propagation methods for this plant include seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation by seeds
Gouldia terminalis reproduces well from seeds, which can be collected from the plant in early fall. The seeds need to be cleaned and soaked in warm water for a day before sowing. They should be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist until they germinate, which usually takes 2-3 weeks. The seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once they are large enough to handle.
Propagation by cuttings
Cuttings are another effective method of propagating Gouldia terminalis. The best time to take cuttings is in late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be around 6-8 inches long and taken from healthy, disease-free shoots. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone to encourage root growth. Plant the cuttings in a well-draining soil and keep them moist until they root, which may take a few weeks.
Propagation by layering
Layering is a simple propagation method that involves creating a new plant from a branch that is still attached to the parent plant. Choose a flexible stem that is at least 1-year old and bend it down towards the ground. Make a small cut on the underside of the stem where it touches the soil and keep the stem in place with a peg. In a few months, roots will start to form at the point where the stem has been wounded. The newly rooted plant can then be separated from the parent and potted up.
Propagation of Gouldia terminalis is relatively easy and can be done successfully using any of these methods. By propagating this plant, gardeners and nature enthusiasts can ensure its preservation for generations to come.
Disease and Pest Management for Gouldia Terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. Var. Rotundifolia Fosberg
Gouldia terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. var. rotundifolia Fosberg, commonly known as "Roundleaf Gouldia," is a woody shrub that is native to the Hawaiian Islands. Like many other plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can damage its health and reduce its vigour and aesthetic appeal. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect this plant and some ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Leaf Spot Fungus: This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora gouldiae. It can cause circular or angular spots with a yellow or reddish-brown margin on the leaves. Leaves may fall prematurely, leading to defoliation and a reduction in plant growth. To manage the disease, remove and destroy infected plant debris, avoid wetting the leaves when watering, and apply fungicide to protect healthy foliage.
2. Root Rot: Root rot is generally caused by waterlogging or overly damp soil that induces root decay. Signs of root rot include leaf wilt, wilting, and damping off of young plants. To manage the disease, improve drainage by adding organic matter to the soil and minimizing watering your plant. Also, choose disease-resistant varieties of plants.
Pests
1. Spider Mites: Spider mites are microscopic insects that suck sap from leaves causing stunted growth, yellow leaves, and webs that cover the plant's surfaces. To manage spider mites, remove any infested plant material, increase humidity around the plant, and spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs have a waxy covering that looks like cotton fluff and suck sap from leaves, leading to stunted growth and defoliation. To manage mealybugs, remove any visible insects with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol, spray plants with insecticidal soap, and use beneficial predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to control the pests.
By following these disease and pest management methods, you can help ensure the health and vigour of Gouldia Terminalis (Hook. & Arn.) Hbd. Var. Rotundifolia Fosberg plants in your garden.
