Description of Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. salicifolia Sherff
Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. salicifolia Sherff is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a subspecies of Lipochaeta lavarum and is commonly known as Lava Lipochaeta, a reference to the plant's origin in Hawaii on the island of Hawaii's volcanoes. The plant grows in dry and rocky areas at elevations from 1000 to 2300 meters above sea level.
Appearance
Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. salicifolia Sherff has narrow leaves that are lance-shaped or oval and are about 1 to 3 inches long. The leaves are green in color and have blades that are hairy or smooth to the touch. The flowers are yellow and are grouped on the top of the stems in bright clusters that may be over 1 inch long. Each flower head has approximately 15 to 30 small flowers that are disc-shaped and have both male and female reproductive organs.
Uses
The plant is not commonly used in commercial applications. However, it plays an important ecological role as it is an essential component of the native ecosystem of Hawaii. Additionally, the plant's flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it an essential part of the local ecosystem. The plant also has cultural significance as it was used in traditional Hawaiian medicine as a remedy for ulcers and tubercular infections.
Cultivation
Cultivating Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. salicifolia Sherff is difficult and requires a specialist approach. The plant is best propagated from seeds or by vegetative cuttings, and it grows well in fertile soil with moderate sunlight. The plant requires regular watering and good drainage to grow. It is best suited to a tropical or partial tropical climate. Because of its threatened status in the wild, it is illegal to harvest or remove the plant from its natural habitat without a permit.
Light Requirements
Lipochaeta lavarum var. salicifolia Sherff requires full sunlight to grow in its natural habitat. It can also tolerate partial shade but may affect its growth and flowering. As an indigenous plant of Hawaii, it has adapted to the high-intensity sunlight and warm temperatures of the region. Therefore, it is essential to grow the plant in a location where it can receive ample sunlight for proper growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The plant can thrive in a wide range of temperatures, primarily in tropical and subtropical conditions. Its natural habitat is the lava fields of Hawaii, where temperatures can range from 20°C to 30°C. Lipochaeta lavarum var. salicifolia Sherff can tolerate mild frosts but not extreme cold, making it ideal for growing in warm climates. The plant may become dormant during the colder months of the year but can quickly recover its growth during warmer months.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5-6.5 and requires medium to high levels of fertility for optimal growth. As an endemic plant of Hawaii, it thrives in the natural volcanic soils of the region, which are rich in minerals and organic matter. It can also grow in sandy soils but may require regular applications of fertilizers and organic matter. It is essential to avoid water-logged soils or soils with poor drainage as it may cause root rot and affect growth.
Cultivation
Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. salicifolia Sherff is a plant species that thrives in bright light environments. Therefore, it should be grown in areas where it can receive indirect sunlight for between 6 to 8 hours daily.
The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6 to 7.5. The soil should be enriched with organic material such as compost to enhance its fertility. The plant can be grown in pots or directly on the ground.
Watering Needs
Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. salicifolia Sherff requires regular watering to maintain moisture levels in the soil. The plant should be watered once or twice per week during the growing season and once every two to three weeks during the dormant season.
It is important to ensure that the plant is not overwatered as this could lead to waterlogging and root rot. On the other hand, inadequate watering results in dehydration and stunted growth.
Fertilization
Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. salicifolia Sherff requires regular fertilization to support plant growth and development. Fertilizers rich in potassium, nitrogen, and phosphorus should be applied to the soil once per month during the growing season.
The amount of fertilizer to apply should be based on the plant's size and the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Overfertilization could lead to fertilizer burn and damage to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is a vital aspect of Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. salicifolia Sherff care. The plant should be pruned regularly to control its size and promote the growth of new shoots and leaves. Pruning is best done during the dormant season when the plant is less active.
Dead or diseased branches should be pruned first, followed by overgrown branches. Pruning should be done using sharp and sterilized pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases. Pruning also helps enhance air circulation and light penetration, improving the overall health of the plant.
Propagation of Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. salicifolia Sherff
The propagation of Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. salicifolia Sherff can be achieved through several methods which include:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. salicifolia Sherff can be propagated in a greenhouse or nursery setting. The seeds are usually sown in a mixture of sand and peat moss and kept moist. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings have developed a few true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Cuttings
Cuttings can also be used to propagate Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. salicifolia Sherff. Cuttings should be taken from newer growth, preferably in the spring. The cuttings should be approximately 4-6 inches long and should be planted in a mixture of sand and peat moss. The cuttings should be kept moist and can take up to 8 weeks to root.
Division
Division can also be used to propagate Lipochaeta lavarum (Gaud.) DC. var. salicifolia Sherff. This method involves separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them. This method can be useful in removing dead or damaged sections of the plant, and replanting them elsewhere.
Disease Management
The Lipochaeta lavarum var. salicifolia Sherff is generally considered a hardy plant and not prone to many diseases. However, in some unfavorable conditions, the plant can be affected by some diseases, including:
- Root and stem rot: This can be caused by waterlogged soil or overwatering. To manage this, ensure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
- Leaf spot: This can occur during heavy rainfall or in damp conditions. Remove and dispose of infected plant parts, and spray the plant with an appropriate fungicide.
- Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that presents as a white powdery substance on the leaves. To manage this, improve air circulation around the plant and ensure it receives adequate sunlight. Spray the plant with an appropriate fungicide.
Pest Management
While the Lipochaeta lavarum var. salicifolia Sherff is generally a low maintenance and pest-resistant plant, it can sometimes be affected by pests such as:
- Aphids: These are small, pear-shaped insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and droop. To manage this, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the aphids or use an appropriate insecticide.
- Mealybugs: These are small, white, sap-sucking insects that will cause the plant to wilt. To manage this, remove affected plant parts and spray the plant with an appropriate insecticide.
- Spider mites: These are tiny mites that feed on the plant, causing it to dry out and die. To manage this, improve air circulation around the plant, keep the plant well-watered, and spray the plant with an appropriate insecticide.
