Origin and Common Names
Lipochaeta hastata Hbd., also known as `ohe`ohe or stemless lipochaeta, is a plant species belonging to the sunflower family (Asteraceae) found only in Hawaii. It is endemic to the islands of Maui, Molokai, Oahu, and Kauai, where it grows in dry, rocky, and heavily disturbed habitat.General Appearance
The plant has a distinctive and striking appearance, with stout and hollow stems that grow up to 4 feet (1.2 meters) tall and bear dark green, oblong-shaped leaves. The leaves have a length range of 1 to 8 inches (2.4-20 cm) and are highly variable in shape from linear to egg-shaped, with serrated edges and pointed tips. The plant has a sporadic branching pattern, ending in terminal inflorescences that consists of multiple small yellow flowers, each with 8-13 petals.Uses
Lipochaeta hastata is a highly valued plant in Hawaiian culture and is believed to have medicinal properties. It was traditionally used to treat various illnesses such as stomach ailments, sore throats, and respiratory issues. The leaves are also used in making Hawaiian leis, and the plant is a popular ornamental species in native plant gardens and landscaping due to its unique physical features. Unfortunately, the species is in danger of extinction due to habitat loss, invasive species, and human activities.Light Requirements
Lipochaeta hastata Hbd. thrives in bright light but can tolerate partial shade. It is best to avoid exposing the plant to direct sunlight as it can cause the leaves to scorch.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers a warm and humid environment with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. Temperatures below 16°C can damage the leaves and reduce growth, so it is important to keep the plant at a suitable temperature.
Soil Requirements
Lipochaeta hastata Hbd. prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A soil mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is suitable. The pH of the soil should be between 5.5 and 7.0.
The plant needs to be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot, which can kill the plant. It is best to water the plant when the top inch of the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilizer can be applied once a month during the growing season to promote growth. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is suitable for Lipochaeta hastata Hbd.
Cultivation Methods
Lipochaeta hastata Hbd., commonly known as the endemic ‘?hinahina or wilted herbage, is a rare plant species found in Hawaii. It prefers to grow under full sun or partial shade in dry to mesic conditions. The plant requires well-draining soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.0. It prefers to grow in rocky, sandy, or gravelly soil that contains minimal nutrients and organic matter. It is recommended to plant it during the rainy season when the soil is moist.
Watering Needs
‘?hinahina is a drought-tolerant plant, meaning it does not require frequent watering once established. Overwatering can cause the roots to rot. During hot and dry conditions, water the plant once a week to maintain the soil's slight moisture. It is best to water the plant in the early morning to avoid water evaporation.
Fertilization
Since Lipochaeta hastata prefers to grow in nutrient-poor soil, fertilization is not typically needed. If the plant shows signs of stunted growth or nutrient deficiency, it may require light fertilization. Use a slow-release fertilizer like 18-6-12, applied at a rate of 1/2 teaspoon per gallon of water, once a month during the growing season. Be careful not to apply fertilizer on the plant's leaves or stem.
Pruning
Pruning Lipochaeta hastata is not necessary except to remove dead or diseased leaves. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears, to maintain its overall shape. Use sharp and sterilized pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Cut the stem at a 45-degree angle, just above a leaf node.
Propagation of Lipochaeta Hastata
Lipochaeta hastata Hbd., also known as the Oahu loulu palm, is a perennial plant endemic to Hawaii. It is a rare and endangered species that is in need of restoration efforts to improve its populations. One way to propagate this plant is through seeds.
Seed Propagation
The Oahu loulu palm produces seeds that have a low germination rate, making this a challenging propagation method. To improve germination, seeds must be collected when they are ripe and stratified for several months before planting.
Seeds should be soaked for 24 hours in room-temperature tap water before sowing. They can be planted in individual pots, ensuring that the soil is moist and well-draining. The pots should be placed in a warm and bright location that receives indirect sunlight. It may take several months for the seedlings to emerge.
Once the seedlings have emerged, they should be fertilized lightly with a slow-release fertilizer and transplanted into larger pots until they are large enough to be planted in the ground.
Vegetative Propagation
The Oahu loulu palm can also be propagated vegetatively through suckers or stem cuttings. Suckers or basal offsets are the small plants that emerge near the base of the parent plant. They can be carefully dug up and replanted in a new location.
Stem cuttings should be taken from healthy and mature plants. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and planted in a moist, well-draining soil mixture with a rooting hormone. The cuttings should be kept in a warm and humid environment until they develop roots and can be planted in the ground.
It is important to note that vegetative propagation may not be as successful as seed propagation, and it may take longer for the plants to establish in their new location.
Disease Management
One of the common diseases that affect Lipochaeta hastata is leaf spot, which appears as circular to angular spots with dark margins and lighter centers. The disease is caused by fungal pathogens and can cause leaf drop, defoliation, and stunted growth. To manage the disease, it is advisable to remove the infected plant parts and destroy them to prevent the spread of the pathogens. Regular application of fungicides can also be effective in controlling leaf spot disease.
Another disease that affects Lipochaeta hastata is powdery mildew, which appears as a white or grey powdery coating on the leaves. The disease is caused by fungal pathogens and can cause distorted growth and premature death of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is advisable to ensure proper air circulation around the plant, remove and destroy the infected parts, and apply fungicides regularly.
Pest Management
The common pests that attack Lipochaeta hastata include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Aphids suck the sap from the plant and, if not controlled, can lead to stunting, yellowing, and curling of the leaves. Spider mites feed on the underside of the leaves, causing yellow spots and webbing, while whiteflies cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves, and excrete a sticky substance that encourages the growth of black sooty mold.
To manage these pests, it is advisable to use insecticides that specifically target the pests. Additionally, regular pruning of the plant to remove any infested parts and maintaining a clean and healthy environment around the plant can help to reduce pest outbreaks. Introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps can also help to control pest infestations.
