Overview of Lipochaeta lobata (Gaud.) DC. var. incisior St. John
Lipochaeta lobata (Gaud.) DC. var. incisior St. John, also known as Akia or Waianae Range lipochaeta, is a rare endemic plant species that is only found in unspoiled forested habitats in the Waianae Range, on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. It is a member of the Asteraceae family, and it is closely related to other native Hawaiian plant species such as the kikipopolo (Lipochaeta micrantha) and the nehe (Lipochaeta succulenta).
Appearance
This plant typically grows to be a small shrub or a tree of up to 4 meters in height. It has shiny green leaves with slightly toothed edges that grow oppositely on its stems. Its leaves can grow up to 5 centimeters long and 1.5 centimeters wide. The plant produces clusters of small, yellow, daisy-like flowers that grow from its leaf axils from March to May.
Uses
Lipochaeta lobata (Gaud.) DC. var. incisior St. John plays a vital role in Hawaiian endemic ecosystems. It helps to prevent soil erosion by binding soil particles and filtering out pollutants. The plant is also an essential source of food and shelter for endemic birds such as the Oahu elepaio and the Hawaiian honeycreepers. In addition, Native Hawaiians have traditionally used different parts of the plant to make lei and medicine to treat various ailments, including stomach problems and respiratory infections.
However, Lipochaeta lobata (Gaud.) DC. var. incisior St. John is currently threatened by habitat loss, invasive plant species, and habitat alterations due to human activities such as land clearing. The plant is listed as an endangered species on the IUCN Red List and the U.S. Endangered Species Act.
Light Requirements
Lipochaeta lobata (Gaud.) DC. var. incisior St. John thrives in full sun to partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to grow and flower.
Temperature Requirements
Lipochaeta lobata (Gaud.) DC. var. incisior St. John is an adaptable plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures. It grows well in temperatures between 18°C and 27°C. The plant can survive in lower temperatures but requires protection from frost.
Soil Requirements
Lipochaeta lobata (Gaud.) DC. var. incisior St. John grows best in well-drained soil that is fertile and rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5. Although the plant is adaptable, it prefers slightly acidic soil. The plant can grow in clay, loam, or sandy soils as long as they are well-drained.
Cultivation
Lipochaeta lobata (Gaud.) DC. var. incisior St. John is a relatively easy plant to grow, and it thrives in warm and humid conditions found in tropical to sub-tropical regions. It is typically grown as an ornamental houseplant and should be kept in a bright but indirect light location. Direct sunlight can damage the leaves of the plant.
It prefers well-draining soil that is continually moist, warm (between 65-85°F) with a slightly acidic pH. If the soil is too dry, the plant may wilt. While the plant enjoys a humid environment, it can still thrive in regular household humidity levels.
Watering Needs
Water the plant when the soil surface feels dry to the touch. On average, Lipochaeta lobata (Gaud.) DC. var. incisior St. John needs water once or twice every week, depending on the temperature, humidity, and the type of soil. When watering the plant, avoid soaking the soil and make sure the excess water drains off the pot's bottom. Overwatering can lead to root rot, eventually causing the plant to die.
Fertilization
For the optimal growth of Lipochaeta lobata (Gaud.) DC. var. incisior St. John, apply a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of (10-10-10) once every month. During the growing season, fertilize the plant twice a month with compost tea or an organic liquid fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season, generally from fall to early spring.
Pruning
Prune Lipochaeta lobata (Gaud.) DC. var. incisior St. John in late winter to early spring when the plant is relatively dormant. Trim any yellow or dead leaves and shoots and remove any suckers. If the plant becomes leggy or overgrown, it can be pruned back by removing a third of its foliage. Pinching out the tips of the stems can also promote bushier growth.
Propagation of Lipochaeta lobata (Gaud.) DC. var. incisior St. John
Lipochaeta lobata (Gaud.) DC. var. incisior St. John, commonly known as false loulu, is a perennial plant that can be propagated through vegetative and sexual methods. The plant is endemic to Hawaii and grows well in tropical climates.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation is an asexual method of propagation that involves the use of plant parts to create new individuals. False loulu can be propagated vegetatively through division and stem cuttings.
Division involves separating the root ball of an established plant into several sections, each with its roots and shoots. The sections are then planted individually in potting soil or directly into the ground. Stem cuttings can also be taken from the parent plant, cutting a section of stem that has several nodes and leaves. The cutting is then dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting soil with a plastic bag over it to create a humid environment.
Sexual Propagation
Sexual propagation involves the use of seeds to create new individuals. In the case of false loulu, the seeds need to be stratified to break dormancy before planting. Stratification involves exposing the seeds to alternating temperatures of warm and cold to simulate the natural environment and encourage germination. After stratification, the seeds can be planted in a well-draining potting soil and kept moist until they germinate.
It is worth noting that propagation of false loulu can be challenging, and success rates may vary. However, with the right conditions and techniques, it is possible to propagate the plant successfully.
Common diseases
Lipochaeta lobata var. incisior St. John is subject to various diseases that may damage the plant. The common diseases that may affect this plant include:
- Bacterial wilt: This disease can cause severe damage to the plant, including wilting, plant death, and decreased crop yield. The disease-causing bacteria enter through root wounds, natural openings, or wounds on aboveground plant parts.
- Fungal leaf spots: These leaf spots appear as small, dark, water-soaked spots with concentric rings. The spots may coalesce leading to a larger brown lesion. The leaves may dry, turn yellow, and eventually fall off.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by fungi that can dwell in the soil. The plant may show symptoms such as stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, crown rot, and eventually death.
Pest management
Lipochaeta lobata var. incisior St. John is also susceptible to pests that can cause serious damage to the plant. Common pests that may affect this plant include:
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap from the leaves. The affected leaves may curl, turn yellow, and eventually fall off. There may also be a honeydew-like substance on the plant, which can promote the growth of sooty mold.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars are the larvae of moths and butterflies that can cause defoliation of the plant. The fully grown caterpillar can cause considerable damage to the plant by eating large amounts of foliage.
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that cause damage by sucking the sap from the leaves, leaving them with a speckled appearance. The leaves may also become yellow and eventually fall off. The plant may also produce webs around the affected area.
To manage these pests and diseases, it is essential to regularly monitor the plant for any signs of damage or infestation. It is also important to keep the plant healthy by providing adequate water, fertilizers, and optimal environmental conditions. In severe cases of pest infestation or disease infection, it may be necessary to use pesticides or fungicides. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions and application rates when using pesticides or fungicides to avoid further damage to the plant.
