Origin
Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense (Gray) C.L. Hitchc. is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the nightshade family, Solanaceae. It is commonly found in North America, particularly in the southeastern states of the United States.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as the Carolina desert-thorn, Christmas-berry, and wolfberry. In Hawaii, it is known as 'ke'aki.
Uses
Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense (Gray) C.L. Hitchc. has been used in traditional medicine. The plant is known to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The berries of the plant are edible and have been used in traditional Native American cuisine as a food source.
General Appearance
The Carolina desert-thorn is a thorny, perennial shrub that grows to a height of about 3-4 feet. Its leaves are small, lance-shaped with spines along the margins. The plant blooms in the summer and produces small, trumpet-shaped flowers that are violet to lavender in color. The fruit of the plant is a bright red, fleshy berry that contains small, light-colored seeds.
Growth Conditions for Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense (Gray) C.L. Hitchc.
Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense (Gray) C.L. Hitchc., commonly known as Hawaiian desert-thorn, is a shrub species native to Hawaii. This plant species typically grows in dry, sunny, and hot conditions.
Light Requirements
The Hawaiian desert-thorn plant species requires full sunlight exposure to grow and thrive. The plant should be cultivated in areas where there is sufficient access to sunlight for at least 6-8 hours daily.
Temperature Requirements
Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense (Gray) C.L. Hitchc. requires warmer temperatures to grow and flourish. This plant species typically grows best at temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F). The species is adapted to thrive in a desert environment, and thus can withstand a reasonably wide range of temperatures.
Soil Requirements
The Hawaiian desert-thorn typically grows on sandy or rocky soils. This plant species is adapted to grow in well-draining soil, as it is native to dry and arid environments with low moisture. The soil pH ranges from 5.0 to 7.5. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve its water-holding capacity.
Cultivation Methods
Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense (Gray) C.L. Hitchc. is a hardy plant that can grow well in many different environments. When planting, it is important to choose a location that receives full sunlight, and has well-draining soil. The plant can be propagated from seeds, or cuttings, which should be planted in the spring or fall. A layer of mulch can help to protect the plant and retain moisture in the soil.
Watering Needs
While Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense (Gray) C.L. Hitchc. is drought-tolerant, it still needs regular watering to promote healthy growth. The plant should be watered deeply once a week, or more frequently in periods of extreme heat or dryness. Take care not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot and other issues. Regular watering will also help the plant to produce an abundant crop of fruit.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and fruit production, Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense (Gray) C.L. Hitchc. can benefit from regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10, applying it every two to three months during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package carefully, as over-fertilization can damage the plant.
Pruning
Pruning can help to promote bushier growth, as well as increase fruit production in Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense (Gray) C.L. Hitchc. Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches, as well as any growth that is crossing or rubbing against other branches. The plant can be lightly pruned throughout the growing season to control its shape and size.
Propagation of Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense
Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense (Gray) C.L. Hitchc. is commonly known as Hawaii boxthorn, a shrub native to the Hawaiian Islands. This plant can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
One of the most common methods used to propagate Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense is through seed. Fresh seeds can be collected from ripe berries during the late summer season. The seeds should be cleaned, and any damaged seeds should be discarded. These seeds can be sown in seedling trays, and kept in partially shaded conditions. Germination usually takes around 2-4 weeks. The seedlings can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden once they have developed a good root system.
Cuttings Propagation
Another effective way to propagate Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense is through cuttings. Semi-hardwood cuttings should be taken during the early spring season. The cuttings should be around 6 inches long, and should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants. The bottom leaves should be removed, and the cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone powder. These cuttings can be placed in pots filled with a well-draining soil mixture and kept in a greenhouse or partially shaded area. After around 4-6 weeks, the cuttings should develop a good root system and can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the garden.
Division Propagation
An additional method for propagating Lycium carolinianum Walt. var. sandwicense is through division. Large, mature plants can be carefully dug up and their roots divided into several smaller sections. Each division should have a good root system and several shoots. These divisions can be planted into larger pots or directly into the garden.
Disease Management
Lycium carolinianum var. sandwicense is susceptible to various diseases that can lead to major yield losses if not managed properly. Some of the common diseases affecting this plant are:
Leaf spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular or angular spots on leaves. The spots may be brown, purple, or black in color and can result in defoliation of the plant. One way to manage leaf spot is to ensure proper plant spacing and air circulation to minimize the spread of spores. Fungicides can be used to control the spread of leaf spot.
Root rot
Root rot is a fungal disease caused by overwatering and poorly drained soil. It can cause the roots to rot and the plant to wilt and die. The best way to manage root rot is to ensure proper drainage, avoid overwatering, and use disease-resistant cultivars.
Pest Management
Lycium carolinianum var. sandwicense is also affected by various pests that can cause significant damage to the plant. Some of the common pests affecting this plant are:
Spider mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that cause stippling on leaves, which can lead to defoliation of the plant. Regularly monitoring the plant for infestations and using insecticidal soap or neem oil can help manage spider mites.
Whiteflies
Whiteflies are small, winged insects that cause yellowing and wilting of leaves. They also excrete honeydew, which can lead to the growth of sooty mold. Removing affected leaves and using sticky traps can help manage whiteflies.
Regular monitoring of the plant for signs of disease and pests is essential to manage them effectively. Proper cultural practices, such as maintaining healthy and well-drained soil, can also help prevent the occurrence and spread of diseases and pests.
