Origin:
Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus (Gaud. ex Hook. & Arn.) Hochr. is a plant species of the family Malvaceae that is native to the Pacific region, specifically to Fiji, Tonga, Samoa, and other nearby islands. It has also been introduced and cultivated in different parts of the world, including Hawaii, where it is widespread.
Common names:
This plant species goes by several common names, including Young's hibiscus, mountain hibiscus, lobed hibiscus, Fiji hibiscus, and cilemolemo in Fijian.
Uses:
Young's hibiscus is primarily used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance and large, brightly colored flowers, which typically range from pink to purple or red. It is commonly grown in gardens, as well as along roadsides and in public parks. Additionally, it is believed that the leaves and flowers of this plant have medicinal uses, including treatment for sore throat, cough, and inflammation.
General appearance:
Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus (Gaud. ex Hook. & Arn.) Hochr. is a perennial shrub that can reach up to 3 meters in height. It has lobed leaves that are green on the upper surface and paler on the underside, with a velvety texture. The flowers are large and showy, measuring up to 12 cm in diameter, and have five petals that are typically pink or purple with a white or yellow center. The plant produces fruit capsules that are round and hairy, containing dark brown to black seeds.
Light requirements
Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus (Gaud. ex Hook. & Arn.) Hochr. prefers full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for healthy growth and flowering. Shaded areas can lead to reduced flowering and stunted growth.
Temperature requirements
The ideal temperature range for Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus (Gaud. ex Hook. & Arn.) Hochr. is between 21°C and 29°C. It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but cold temperatures below 10°C can damage the plant. Temperatures above 35°C can also lead to heat stress, especially if the plant is not well-watered.
Soil requirements
Well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter is necessary for the growth of Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus (Gaud. ex Hook. & Arn.) Hochr. Soil pH should be in the range of 5.5 to 7.5 for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soils, but it does best in neutral to slightly acidic soils. Soil should also be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Cultivation Methods for Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus
Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and full sunlight to thrive. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors in warm climates with well-draining soil. The plant is relatively low maintenance with moderate watering needs.
Watering Needs for Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus
To ensure optimal growth and health, Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus should be watered regularly. The soil should be moist, but not waterlogged, as excess water can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate, soil type, and season. During hot summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization for Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus
Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus responds well to regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season. It is recommended to use a fertilizer with high phosphorus content to encourage blooming. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize, as this can damage the plant.
Pruning for Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus
Pruning Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus is an essential part of caring for this plant. It is recommended to prune the plant in early spring before new growth begins. Pruning will help promote a bushy growth habit and encourage blooming. Dead, damaged, or diseased branches should be removed as soon as they are noticed. Regular pruning will help keep the plant healthy and looking its best.
Propagation of Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus
Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, cuttings, and layering.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is the most common method to grow Hibiscus furcellatus var. youngianus. The seeds should be collected from healthy plants during their flowering season. The seeds can then be sown in the desired soil mix and kept moist. The plant will take around 3-4 weeks to germinate.
Propagation through Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is a quicker method than seed propagation as it takes around 2-3 weeks for the plant to root. The cuttings should be taken from healthy plants and cut at a 45-degree angle with a sterilized knife. The lower leaves should be removed and the cuttings should be dipped in hormones before planting in the desired soil mix.
Propagation through Layering
Propagation through layering involves creating a small wound on one of the lower branches of the parent plant and covering it with soil mix. The branch should be tied to the soil and kept moist. The branch will develop roots, and once established, it can be separated from the parent plant and potted in its desired location.
Disease Management
Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus is susceptible to several diseases that can affect its overall growth and production. Some of the most common diseases include:
- Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora hibisci and appears as circular brownish spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves and avoid overhead watering to prevent water from sitting on the leaves.
- Bacterial Blight: This disease is caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas campestris and appears as water-soaked lesions on the leaves, which turn brown and eventually fall off. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid overhead watering, and use copper-based fungicides.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by the fungi Fusarium and Phytophthora and causes the roots to turn brown and mushy. To manage this disease, avoid over-watering and ensure proper drainage.
Pest Management
Hibiscus furcellatus Lam. var. youngianus is also susceptible to several pests that can damage the plant. Some of the most common pests include:
- Aphids: These small insects feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and curled leaves. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and encourage the presence of natural predators like ladybugs and lacewings.
- Spider Mites: These tiny arachnids suck the sap of the leaves and cause a stippled appearance. To manage this pest, wash the leaves with a strong stream of water and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Thrips: These small insects feed on the flowers and cause distorted petals and discoloration. To manage this pest, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and remove and destroy heavily infested flowers.
