Origin
Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff, commonly known as ‘akoko or akoko iki’, is a species of plant in the sunflower family (Asteraceae). The plant is endemic to the Hawaiian archipelago and is found in the rocky crevices of cliffs and in dry or mesic forests.
Common names
The plant's common names include ‘akoko or akoko iki’ in Hawaiian and ‘Maui greensword’ in English.
Uses
The ‘akoko or akoko iki’ plant has both medicinal and cultural values. The leaves and stems of the plant are pounded and used to treat cuts, bruises, and skin-related ailments. Additionally, its fibrous roots are used to make cordage for fishing nets, ti leaf skirts, and other traditional Hawaiian items.
General Appearance
The Maui greensword is a small shrub that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The plant has small, narrow, and linear leaves that are only 1-3 cm long and 1-2 mm wide. The leaves are green, glossy, and have a slightly wavy or curled edge. The plant produces tiny yellow flowers that bloom between May and August. The small, cylindrical fruits of the plant are also yellow and contain a single seed.
Light Requirements
The Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff grows best under full sun to partial shade. As a natural dweller of the sunny, dry slopes and ridges, the plant can tolerate strong sunlight and requires a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight daily.
Temperature Requirements
The plant Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff grows well in warm temperatures, and is appropriate for areas with mild winters. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 9 to 11. The plant requires a minimum temperature of 50 degrees Fahrenheit and a maximum temperature of 75 degrees Fahrenheit. In areas with hotter summers, the plant can benefit from protection in the afternoon, such as partial shade, to prevent extreme dehydration.
Soil Requirements
The soil for the Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff must be well-draining and have adequate moisture retention. The plant thrives under neutral to slightly acidic soil conditions with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. A light soil mix that is rich in organic matter is recommended, with a texture that is sandy loam or sandy clay. The plant is drought tolerant, but it needs occasional irrigation during long dry spells.
Cultivation of Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff
Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff is a small shrub that thrives in warm and sunny locations. It is suitable for outdoor cultivation in areas with mild climates. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can adapt to various soil types, including loam, sandy, and rocky soils.
When planting Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff, provide enough space for the shrub to grow and develop. The plant can grow up to three feet tall and two feet wide, so it is recommended to plant each shrub about three feet apart from each other.
Watering Needs
During the first few weeks after planting, ensure that your Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff receives enough water to establish strong roots. Afterward, the plant does not require frequent watering and can tolerate some drought. Water the shrub when the top inch of the soil feels dry. It is better to water deeply and infrequently rather than giving light waterings frequently.
Fertilization
Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff does not require heavy feeding and can grow well without fertilization. However, adding fertilizer can boost healthy growth and enhance the plant's appearance. You can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in early spring.
Pruning
Prune Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff in early spring before new growth begins. Cut back any damaged or dead branches and remove any overcrowded or crossing branches to promote healthy growth and maintain an attractive shape. Avoid pruning too much and do not cut below the green growth.
Propagation of Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff
Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff can be propagated through seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff can be collected from mature plants during the flowering season. The seeds can be sown in seedling trays filled with a well-draining potting mix. The trays should be placed in a warm and bright location but not exposed to direct sunlight. The soil should be kept moist, but not wet, until the seedlings germinate.
Once the seedlings have grown to a height of at least 3 inches, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings are another means of propagating Lipochaeta tenuis O. Deg. & Sherff var. sellingii O. Deg. & Sherff. Cuttings should be taken from healthy plants during the growing season using a sharp, sterilized pair of scissors or pruning shears. Each cutting should be at least 3 inches long and should be taken from the tip of the stem.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining potting mix. The potting mix should be moist, but not wet, and the cuttings should be placed in a warm, bright location but not exposed to direct sunlight. The cuttings should root within 4-6 weeks. Once the roots are established, the cuttings can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
