Origin
Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense (Cham. & Schlecht.) Fosberg is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Brassicaceae. It is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, particularly on the island of Oahu.
Common Names
Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense is commonly known as the owaihi rockcress or owaihi pepperweed in English.
Uses
The owaihi rockcress is considered a medicinal plant by the indigenous people of Hawaii. It is believed to have anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and was used to treat a variety of illnesses including asthma and sore throats. In addition, the plant was also used in traditional Hawaiian cuisine as a seasoning or spice.
General Appearance
Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense is a small, herbaceous plant that grows up to 20 cm tall. It has a basal rosette of leaves and small white flowers that bloom in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant has a distinctive spicy aroma and a flavor similar to mustard or horseradish. It typically grows in rocky, barren areas and can be found at elevations ranging from sea level up to 600 meters.
Light Requirements
Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense (Cham. & Schlecht.) Fosberg, commonly known as Hawaiian peppercress, prefers full sunlight for optimal growth. It can also tolerate partial shade but may not reach its full growth potential. Therefore, it is best to grow this plant in an area with at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature Requirements
Hawaiian peppercress is a cool-season plant that prefers moderate temperatures. It grows best in temperatures ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 40 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but it may not grow as well under extreme temperatures. It is important to provide adequate ventilation to avoid overheating during warm weather and to protect the plant from frost during cold weather.
Soil Requirements
Hawaiian peppercress prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with a pH of 6 to 7. It can grow in various soil types, including sandy or loamy soil, but it does best in well-draining soils. The plant requires adequate moisture to grow, but poorly drained soil may lead to root rot. Therefore, ensure that the plant's soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Adding compost or other organic matter can help improve the soil's nutrient content and drainage capacity.
Cultivation Methods
Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense (Cham. & Schlecht.) Fosberg is best grown in USDA plant hardiness zones 8-10. It prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. This plant can grow in full sun or partial shade but is tolerant of heat and drought. It is best sown directly in the ground, rather than being transplanted, as it has a delicate root system.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense (Cham. & Schlecht.) Fosberg are moderate. It is important not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate, soil type, and the plant's growth stage.
Fertilization
Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense (Cham. & Schlecht.) Fosberg is not a heavy feeder, and too much fertilization can actually harm the plant. Fertilize the plant once in the early spring with a slow-release, low-nitrogen fertilizer. Avoid applying fertilizer during the hot summer months, as this can cause leaf burn.
Pruning
Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense (Cham. & Schlecht.) Fosberg does not require much pruning. However, if the plant starts to look unruly or too large, trim back the stems in the early spring after flowering to maintain the plant's shape. This plant can also self-seed, so if you don't want it to spread, it's best to deadhead the flowers before they go to seed.
Propagation of Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense (Cham. & Schlecht.) Fosberg
Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense (Cham. & Schlecht.) Fosberg is a rare plant that is endemic to Hawaii. Due to habitat loss and fragmentation, it is essential to propagate this plant to ensure its survival. There are several methods of propagating Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense, which include:
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense can be collected during the fruiting season, which lasts from May to July. The seeds are small and should be carefully collected to avoid damage. Once collected, the seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool and dry place until propagation time. The best time to sow the seeds is in the fall, after the first rains, as this will provide the necessary moisture for germination. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground or in containers. The containers should be placed in a shaded area and watered regularly. The seedlings should emerge within a few weeks, and once they reach a height of 2-3 inches, they can be transplanted into the ground.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another method of propagating Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense. This method involves taking cuttings from the stem of a mature plant and rooting them to produce new plants. The best time to take cuttings is during the growing season when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be taken from the lower part of the stem, and the leaves on the lower part of the cutting should be removed. The cuttings should be placed in a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded area and watered regularly. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into the ground.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another method of propagating Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense, which involves dividing a mature plant into smaller sections, each with its own set of roots. The best time to divide the plant is during the dormant season, which occurs during the winter months. The plant should be lifted from the ground, and the roots should be carefully teased apart. The smaller sections should be replanted in the ground, and they should be watered regularly until new growth emerges.
Disease and Pest Management for Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense
Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense, commonly known as `Owaihi microcress`, is a herbaceous plant that is native to Hawaii. Although Owaihi microcress is known to be a resilient plant, it is still susceptible to several pests and diseases that can impair the plant's growth and yield. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
1. Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of Lepidium bidentatum, causing them to turn yellow, brown, or black. The leaves may also have a powdery white or gray coating on them. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to ensure good air circulation around the plant, avoid overhead watering, and remove infected plant parts as soon as they are noticed. Additionally, spraying the plants with a fungicide can help control the disease.
2. Root Rots: Root rots are caused by various fungi and can impact the roots and other underground parts of the plant. Symptoms of root rot include wilting and yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and root decay. To manage root rot, it is crucial to remove and destroy any infected plant material. Ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering can also help prevent root rot.
Common Pests
1. Aphids: Aphids are tiny insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and yellow. They can also transmit virus diseases. To manage aphids, it is important to keep the area around the plants weed-free, as aphids often use the weeds as a habitat. You can also remove them by hand or use an insecticidal soap to control the population.
2. Whiteflies: Whiteflies are small, winged insects that feed on the undersides of leaves, causing yellowing and decreased plant vigor. To manage whiteflies, it is crucial to remove and destroy all infected plant material. Additionally, using sticky traps can help catch and control whiteflies. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control their population.
In conclusion, managing pests and diseases is essential for maintaining healthy Lepidium bidentatum Morton var. owaihiense plants. By following the suggested management strategies, it is possible to protect your plants from common issues and ensure their health and productivity.
