Origin
Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. ovata Sherff, also known as Lavarocks Na'ena'e, is a species of plant in the sunflower family, Asteraceae. It is a native plant to Hawaii and specifically found in the K?lauea Volcano area on the southeastern coast of the Big Island.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Lavarocks Na'ena'e. Na'ena'e is a Hawaiian word that means "crisp", "fresh" and "cool". This name was given to the plant because of its pleasing scent and appearance.
Uses
The plant is widely used in traditional Hawaiian medicine as a remedy for stomachaches, indigestion, and various other ailments. It has also been used to treat infections and wounds due to its natural antibacterial properties. In addition, the leaves of the plant are used to flavor the traditional Hawaiian dish called laulau, which is a combination of meat, fish, and vegetables wrapped in taro leaves and steamed.
General Appearance
Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. ovata Sherff is a small, evergreen shrub that grows up to 1 meter tall. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped, measuring 2-6 cm long and 1-4 cm wide. The flowers are small, yellow, and found in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant has a strong aromatic scent that is pleasing to the nose.
Light Requirements
Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. ovata Sherff prefers bright light with partial shade. It can tolerate full sun but excessive heat can negatively affect their growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species thrives in warm temperatures between 22°C to 27°C. It cannot tolerate frost and extreme cold temperatures, making it unsuitable for outdoor cultivation in regions with such environmental conditions.
Soil Requirements
Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. ovata Sherff grows best in loamy soil that is well-drained and slightly acidic. It has moderate tolerance to salt, making it an ideal plant for cultivation in coastal regions. It also requires nutrient-rich soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 for optimal growth.
Cultivation of Lipochaeta lavarum var. ovata Sherff
Lipochaeta lavarum var. ovata Sherff is a plant native to Hawaii and is often grown as an ornamental plant. It can grow up to 3 feet tall and requires warm temperatures to thrive. Here are some elements to keep in mind when cultivating this plant:
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, as overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal infections. Water the plant when the soil is dry to about an inch deep.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two to three months. Avoid using high-nitrogen fertilizers, as they can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced blooming.
Pruning
Prune the plant to maintain its shape and size. Remove dead or damaged branches and trim back overgrown branches to encourage new growth. Prune after the plant has finished blooming to avoid removing any flower buds.
With these tips in mind, you can grow a healthy and beautiful Lipochaeta lavarum var. ovata Sherff plant.
Propagation of Lipochaeta Lavarum var. ovata Sherff
Lipochaeta lavarum var. ovata Sherff can be propagated through various methods, such as:
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds is one of the most common methods for Lipochaeta lavarum var. ovata Sherff. The seeds must first be collected from the mature flowers and should only be collected when they are dry and brown. Once collected, the seeds should be stored in a dry, cool, and dark place.
When ready for propagation, you can sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix. The seedlings should sprout in a few weeks. It is important to keep the seedlings in a warm and humid environment.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is another method of propagating Lipochaeta lavarum var. ovata Sherff. This can be done through softwood cuttings or layering. Cuttings should be taken from young shoots, and they should be at least 4 inches long. Remove all the leaves except the top few, then dip them in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix. To propagate through layering, a low branch is chosen and bent down to the soil. Once the branch touches the soil, it should be pinned down and covered with soil. Roots will develop from the buried section, and the plant can be separated from the mother plant.
Tissue Culture Propagation
Tissue culture propagation is a more advanced method that is commonly used for commercial purposes. This method involves taking a small piece of the plant's tissue and growing it in a nutrient-rich culture medium. The plantlets that grow from this method are genetically identical to the mother plant and are disease-free.
Disease and Pest Management for Lipochaeta Lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. ovata Sherff
Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. ovata Sherff is a beautiful and rare plant species found in the Hawaiian Islands. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and wellbeing. As such, it is crucial for farmers and growers to understand the common diseases and pests that affect this plant and how to manage them effectively.
Common Diseases Affecting Lipochaeta Lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. ovata Sherff
Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves and stems of the plant. It can cause decreased plant growth, flower deformities, and premature leaf drop. To manage this disease, use sulfur-based fungicides or horticultural oils. Ensure that the plant is well ventilated and reduce overhead watering.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a bacterial or fungal disease that causes small spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow or brown. The disease can be managed by using fungicides and ensuring that the plant is not overcrowded and has good air circulation.
Common Pests Affecting Lipochaeta Lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. ovata Sherff
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that attack the leaves and stems of the plant, sucking the sap and causing stunted growth and curling of the leaves. The best way to manage aphids is by using insecticidal soap, neem oil, or by releasing beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, that feed on aphids.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that attack the underside of the leaves, causing yellow spots, webbing, and premature leaf drop. You can manage spider mites by spraying the plant with water to dislodge them, using insecticidal soap, or introducing predatory mites that feed on spider mites.
By understanding the common diseases and pests that affect this beautiful plant species, growers and farmers can take proactive steps to manage them effectively. This will ensure that Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. ovata Sherff thrives and continues to beautify our landscapes and gardens.
