Overview of Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff
Lipochaeta intermedia, commonly known as the 'awikiwiki or moloka'i lipochaeta, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the sunflower family. It is endemic to Hawaii and can be found on the islands of Maui, Molokai, and Lanai in mesic to wet forests, usually at elevations between 300 and 1,100 m above sea level. The 'awikiwiki plant is locally common and is considered an important element of Hawaiian flora, contributing to the unique biological diversity of the region.
Appearance of Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff
'Awikiwiki is a slender, leafy herb that grows up to a meter in height. The upper stem usually has leaves that are alternate, while the lower stem has a rosette of leaves that are lobed, dark green, and hairy. The lobed leaves are ovate to elliptic, with slightly toothed edges, and are about 5 to 15 cm long and 2.5 to 7.5 cm wide. These leaves are arranged alternatively along the stems with the upper ones being smaller and less lobed. They are covered with coarse bristles, which give the plant its hairy, rough texture.
The inflorescence of the 'awikiwiki is a long, slender, terminal panicle that can reach up to 30 cm in length. The flower heads are small, discoid, and have yellow to greenish-yellow corollas with hair-like filaments. The fruit of the plant is an achene that is less than 1 cm long and has a tuft of white hair at the top, which assists in wind dispersal. The flowers are in bloom from June to September.
Uses of Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff
Lipochaeta intermedia plays an essential role in stabilizing the soil and preventing erosion in Hawaii. The plant's roots penetrate deep into the soil, reducing soil erosion and increasing water infiltration. The leaves and petioles of Lipochaeta intermedia are edible and have medicinal value in Hawaiian traditional medicine. They are used as a poultice to treat bruises, cuts, and sores, and the extract from the plant is believed to have analgesic properties.
However, the Lipochaeta intermedia is considered an endangered species due to habitat degradation, non-native invasive plants, and human disturbance. Its conservation status is currently under threat, and it is protected by Hawaii law. Therefore, harvesting the plant is restricted, and it is illegal to transport or sell the plant or its parts without a permit, except for scientific research or for cultural and religious purposes.
Light Requirements
Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff requires full sun to partial shade to grow optimally. In the natural habitat, it usually grows in bright light, sometimes in full sun. Thus, it is best to grow in moderate to bright light conditions when cultivated.
Temperature Requirements
Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff grows best in warm temperatures with a moderate humidity level. It is native to Hawaii where the temperature remains fairly constant throughout the year. Ideally, the plant requires a temperature range of 18-27°C (65-80°F) to thrive. Extreme temperatures below 10°C (50°F) or above 32°C (90°F) can hinder the growth of the plant.
Soil Requirements
Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff requires well-draining soil for optimal growth. A sandy loam soil mixture with good drainage is the best option for growing this plant. Since this plant is native to Hawaii, it thrives in soils rich in organic matter. Adding compost or other organic materials to the soil can aid in nutrient retention and promote plant growth. A soil pH between 5.5-7.5 is ideal for cultivating Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff.
Cultivation Methods
Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff plant is a drought-resistant plant that does well in areas with low rainfall. The plant can be grown in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil, and is known to thrive in full sun and light shade. It is best grown from seeds, which can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors.
Watering Needs
The plant needs moderate watering. It is best to water the plant deeply a few times a week rather than watering it lightly every day. The soil should be allowed to dry between watering. Overwatering the plant can cause root rot and lead to the death of the plant.
Fertilization
Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff plant can be fertilized using a balanced liquid fertilizer every few weeks. It is recommended to use a fertilizer that is low in nitrogen as too much nitrogen can cause the plant to develop a lot of foliage and fewer flowers.
Pruning
Pruning is not necessary for the Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff plant, but it can help to promote healthy growth and shape the plant. If pruning is required, it is best to do it in the spring or early summer. One should avoid pruning in the fall or winter as this can open up the plant to disease and pest infestation.
Propagation of Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff
Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff can be propagated through various methods which include:
Seed propagation
The plant produces tiny brown seeds with tufts of hairs that allow them to be easily carried by the wind. To propagate the plant through seeds, collect the seeds from a mature plant and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil (~ 2 mm) and water them lightly. Keep the soil moist and the planter in a warm, bright place but protected from direct sunlight. Seedlings should emerge within a few weeks, and once they are large enough to handle, transplant them into individual planters.
Cutting propagation
Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff can also be propagated through stem-cuttings. Take a cutting (~ 10 cm long) from a healthy mature plant, making sure it has at least 2-3 sets of leaves. Remove the lower leaves on the cutting, leaving only the top sets. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a pot filled with sterile soil mix. Water it lightly, and place the pot in a warm, bright place away from direct sunlight. Keep the soil moist, and within a few weeks, the cutting should have produced roots.
Propagation by stem-cuttings is a recommended method as it ensures that the offspring retain the exact genetic traits of the parent plant. This method is particularly effective since Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff does not reproduce through runners.
Disease and Pest Management for Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff
Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the sunflower family. It is an evergreen perennial herb that grows in rocky or sandy soils, commonly found in coastal areas and dry slopes. This plant is generally resistant to disease and pests, but it can be affected by certain conditions that can weaken its health and make it more susceptible to pests and diseases.
Common Diseases of Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff
The most common diseases that can affect Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff are fungal diseases, which can cause leaf spot, powdery mildew, and rust. Leaf spot is characterized by dark spots on the leaves, while powdery mildew appears as a white powdery growth on the leaves and stems. Rust is a disease that causes orange or brown spots on the leaves, and can eventually cause the leaves to drop prematurely.
Managing Fungal Diseases
To prevent and manage fungal diseases, it is important to maintain good plant health by providing adequate watering, drainage, and sunlight. Avoid overhead watering, as this can promote the growth of fungal spores. If the plant is infected, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide. Use organic fungicides if possible, and follow the instructions on the label carefully. Also, keep the garden area clean and free of plant debris to reduce the risk of fungal diseases spreading.
Common Pests of Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff
The most common pests that can affect Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff are aphids and spider mites. Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on the underside of the leaves, and can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves.
Managing Aphids
To prevent and manage aphids, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the insects from the leaves. Encourage natural predators, such as ladybugs and lacewings, to feed on the aphids. Alternatively, use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the plant. Follow the instructions on the label carefully.
Managing Spider Mites
To prevent and manage spider mites, maintain good plant health by providing adequate watering, drainage, and sunlight. Spider mites thrive in hot and dry conditions, so increasing humidity around the plant can help deter their growth. Use a miticide if the infestation is severe, or introduce natural predators such as mite-eating insects.
By staying vigilant and keeping a watchful eye for signs of disease and pest infestations, as well as following the aforementioned measures to manage them, Lipochaeta intermedia O. Deg. & Sherff can thrive, serving as a beautiful and valuable addition to any garden or landscape.
