Lepturus Repens (g. Forst.) R. Br. Var. Subulatus Fosberg - >>lepturus Repens

Origin and Common Names

Lepturus repens (G. Forst.) R. Br. var. subulatus Fosberg is a perennial plant species belonging to the Poaceae family. It is native to the island nations of the Pacific, including Hawaii, Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga. In Hawaii, it is commonly known as 'aki'aki or 'akikiki. It is also commonly referred to as 'liver-grass,' 'creeping lepturus,' and 'spreading lepturus.'

General Appearance

The plant has a distinct appearance due to its unique growth habit. It forms a dense mat of creeping stems, which are up to 12 inches long. The stems have long, narrow, and pointed leaves, which are green in color. The plant produces unbranched stems, which grow upright, and bear spikelets at their tips. These spikelets are small, greenish-yellow, and slightly pubescent.

Uses

Lepturus repens var. subulatus has several uses. In traditional Hawaiian medicine, it is used to treat liver diseases, hence its common name 'liver-grass.' It is also used as herbal medicine in Fiji to promote wound healing. In addition, it is an attractive groundcover and often used in landscaping. The plant is also useful for soil stabilization on slopes and banks. This plant can also be used for erosion control as it creeps over an area like a mat, stabilizing soil and preventing loss of nutrients.

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Growth Conditions for Lepturus Repens (G. Forst.) R. Br. var. Subulatus Fosberg

Light Requirements: Lepturus repens var. subulatus is adapted to grow in full sunlight. It requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight every day. Insufficient light can result in stunted growth and reduced flowering.

Temperature Requirements: Lepturus repens var. subulatus is a heat-loving plant and is adapted to grow in warm climates. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 20°C and 30°C. The plant can survive in temperatures as low as 10°C but may not grow as vigorously.

Soil Requirements: Lepturus repens var. subulatus can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to loamy to clay. However, the soil must be well-drained and have good aeration. The plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils as it can lead to root rot. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is optimal for the growth of the plant.

Water Requirements: Lepturus repens var. subulatus is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive in low rainfall areas. However, it requires regular watering during the establishment phase to encourage root growth. Once established, the plant can go for extended periods without water, making it ideal for arid and semi-arid regions.

Nutrient Requirements: Lepturus repens var. subulatus is not a heavy feeder, and therefore, it requires minimal fertilization. A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 is sufficient to maintain healthy growth. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowering.

Propagation: Lepturus repens var. subulatus can be propagated by seed or vegetative means. Seeds should be sown in pots or directly in the ground after the last frost. The plant can also be propagated by dividing the root mass during the early spring or fall.

Cultivation Methods for Lepturus Repens (G. Forst.) R. Br. var. Subulatus Fosberg

Lepturus repens (G. Forst.) R. Br. var. subulatus Fosberg, commonly known as creeping lepturus, is a plant that can be cultivated both indoors and outdoors. To cultivate this plant, you can start by planting its seeds in well-draining soil, and placing them in a sunny area. Once the seeds have germinated, transplant them to their final location, which should be an area that receives partial to full sunlight. Keep the soil moist but not too wet, and remove any weeds that grow around the plant to prevent competition for nutrients.

Watering Needs

Lepturus repens requires regular watering to ensure adequate growth and development. Water the plant frequently when it is in its early stages of growth, but reduce the frequency as the plant matures. Avoid overwatering the plant, as this can cause root rot, which can ultimately kill the plant. Water the plant only when the topsoil feels dry, and give it a thorough watering until the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilization

Fertilization is essential to ensure that the plant gets all the necessary nutrients it needs to grow and thrive. Use a complete fertilizer that is high in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and apply it to the soil around the plant every four to six weeks during its active growing season. Avoid applying fertilizer during the plant's dormant season, as this can lead to fertilizer burn or other adverse effects.

Pruning

Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and size of the plant, as well as promoting healthy growth. To prune your Lepturus repens plant, use sharp pruning shears to trim the stem tips to encourage bushier growth. Trim any dead or damaged foliage as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease or pests. You can also trim the plant to maintain its desired size, but avoid cutting back more than a third of the plant at once to prevent damaging it.

Propagation of Lepturus repens (G. Forst.) R. Br. var. subulatus Fosberg

There are a few different methods of propagation that can be used for Lepturus repens (G. Forst.) R. Br. var. subulatus Fosberg.

Seed Propagation

One of the most common methods of propagation for this plant is through seed. Seeds should be collected when they are mature, which occurs from late summer to early winter. They should be cleaned and then stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready to be planted.

To plant the seeds, they should be sown in a well-draining soil mix and lightly covered with soil. The trays or pots should be kept in a warm, bright location but not in direct sunlight. The soil should be kept moist but not too wet. Germination typically occurs within 2 to 4 weeks.

Division Propagation

Another method of propagation is through division. This is typically done in spring or early summer, when the plant is just starting to grow. The plant should be dug up, and the roots should be gently separated into smaller sections. Each section should have at least one shoot and one set of roots. These smaller sections can then be planted in a well-draining soil mix and watered regularly.

It's important to note that the plant doesn't like to be disturbed, so it's best to avoid division unless absolutely necessary.

Disease Management for Lepturus Repens

Lepturus repens var. subulatus Fosberg is generally a robust and disease-resistant plant. However, some diseases can still affect it, especially if grown in unfavorable environmental conditions. Common diseases that may affect this plant include:

• Fusarium wilt: This is a fungal disease that causes yellowing and wilting of leaves. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed. To prevent the spread of the disease, avoid planting in soil that has been previously used for growing other susceptible plants.
• Root rot: This disease is caused by a fungus that infects the roots, causing the plant to wilt and die. To avoid this disease, plant in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease causes a greyish-white powdery growth on the leaves and stems of the plant. To control powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation and avoid overcrowding of plants. Fungicides may also be used.

Pest Management for Lepturus Repens

Lepturus repens var. subulatus Fosberg can also be affected by some pests. Common pests that may attack this plant include:

• Spider mites: These are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and wilting. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. In severe infestations, insecticidal soap or neem oil may be used.
• Aphids: These pests also feed on the sap of the plant, causing distorted growth and curling of leaves. Control aphids by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or by using insecticidal soap.
• Caterpillars: Caterpillars can feed on the leaves of the plant, causing significant damage. Control caterpillars by handpicking them or by using Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticide.

Regular monitoring of the plant can help in identifying the early signs of disease or pest infestation, allowing for prompt action. Cultural practices such as proper watering, fertilization, and pruning can also help in maintaining the health of the plant.