Origin
Melicope lakae, also known as B.C. Stone, is a species of flowering plant in the citrus family known as Rutaceae. This plant is native to Hawaii and is commonly found in montane mesic forests.
Common Names
B.C. Stone is known by a few common names including Alani, Moso'oi, Pe'ahi, and at least a dozen more depending on the region.
Uses
The leaves of Melicope lakae have been traditionally used by native Hawaiians for their medicinal properties. Leaves were boiled or steeped in water to make a tea that was used to treat various ailments such as headaches, colds, and stomach problems. Additionally, the fruit of the plant was used as a food source in times of famine, and the wood was used for carving as it is durable and has a pleasant fragrance.
General Appearance
Melicope lakae is a small tree or shrub that can reach a height of 20 feet. The bark is grayish-brown, and the leaves are dark green, glossy, and ovate to elliptic in shape. The plant produces small white flowers that are followed by small yellow fruits that are about the size of a small pea.
Light Requirements
Melicope lakae generally prefers partially shady environments. It requires a minimum of four hours of sunlight exposure each day to photosynthesize. Excessive sunlight exposure could burn the leaves and cause the plant to wither. Protection from direct sunlight is critical during extreme heat or drought conditions, and placing it in a location with partial shade is recommended.
Temperature Requirements
Melicope lakae grows best in warm temperatures with a constant temperature range between 65 and 85?. The plant is intolerant to severe heat changes, and temperatures below 60? could hinder the growth process. Keep the plant away from areas with cold drafts like open windows and functioning air-conditioning systems.
Soil Requirements
Melicope lakae requires well-draining soils, and sandy-gravelly soil is ideal. As it grows best in slightly acidic soils, the pH should range from 5 to 6.5. The plant prefers moist soils but will not survive waterlogged environments, and it is susceptible to root rot from long-term exposure to water. The soil should consist of organic matter, including humus, to promote healthy root systems and a constant supply of nutrients.
Cultivation Methods for Melicope Lakae
Melicope Lakae is a plant that thrives in tropical climates. It requires a well-draining soil mixture, and it grows best in areas that have plenty of bright but indirect sunlight. If you are planning to grow Melicope lakae, you should keep it in a warm and humid space that maintains a temperature between 50°F (10°C) and 80°F (27°C).
Watering Needs for Melicope Lakae
Watering is a crucial aspect of growing Melicope lakae. The plant prefers moist soil, and you should water it at regular intervals. On average, you should water the plant every three to four days during the growing season. However, you don't want to overwater your plant as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization Guidelines for Melicope Lakae
Melicope Lakae requires nutrients to grow correctly, and it can benefit from regular fertilizing. You should use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer, and apply it every two weeks during the growing season. However, you should stop fertilizing during the dormant season.
Pruning Tips for Melicope Lakae
Pruning is not always necessary for Melicope Lakae, but it can help to shape the plant and encourage new growth. You should prune any dead or damaged leaves and branches, and remove any suckers that grow around the base of the plant. It's best to prune Melicope Lakae during the growing season when the plant is actively producing new growth.
Propagation of Melicope lakae
The propagation of Melicope lakae can be done through both sexual and asexual methods. Generally, sexual propagation is preferred for producing new plants that are more genetically diverse and better suited for adapting to the environment.
Seed Propagation
The seeds of Melicope lakae are viable and can be used for propagation. The seeds are small and hard and are usually collected from mature fruits. The seeds are then stored in cool and dry conditions until they are ready for sowing. They can be sown in trays or pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. The seeds are covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist. Germination usually occurs within a few weeks.
Asexual Propagation
Melicope lakae can also be propagated asexually through cuttings. Cuttings can be taken from healthy and mature plants during the growing season. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long, and the leaves should be removed from the lower one-third of the cutting. The cuttings should be dipped in a rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings can be covered with a plastic bag to maintain high humidity levels. Roots usually develop within 3-4 weeks, and the new plant can be transplanted into a bigger pot or directly into the ground.
Disease Management for Melicope lakae
Like any plant, Melicope lakae is susceptible to certain diseases that can affect its growth and development. These are some common diseases that can affect Melicope lakae and the ways they can be managed:
Citrus greening
Citrus greening is a bacterial disease that can seriously affect Melicope lakae plants. Symptoms of this disease include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and premature fruit drop. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for citrus greening, so the best approach to disease management is prevention. This can be achieved through regular monitoring and removal of diseased trees, as well as the use of insecticidal sprays to prevent insect vectors from spreading the disease.
Phytophthora root rot
Phytophthora root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of Melicope lakae plants, leading to reduced growth and eventual death of the plant. This disease is common in areas with high rainfall and poor soil drainage. To manage this disease, it is important to ensure good soil drainage by planting Melicope lakae in well-draining soils and avoiding overwatering. Additionally, the use of fungicides can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Pest Management for Melicope lakae
Along with diseases, Melicope lakae plants can also be affected by a variety of pests that can harm the plant. Below are some common pests that can affect Melicope lakae and the ways they can be managed:
Aphids
Aphids are small insects that can damage Melicope lakae plants by feeding on the leaves and stems. This can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and curling or wilting of leaves. To manage aphids, it is important to regularly monitor plants for infestations and use insecticidal sprays as needed. Additionally, introducing natural predators of aphids, such as ladybugs, can help keep aphid populations under control.
Scale insects
Scale insects are another common pest that can affect Melicope lakae. These insects feed on plant sap and can cause yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and reduced fruit yield. To manage scale insects, it is important to regularly monitor plants for infestations and use insecticidal sprays as needed. Additionally, pruning heavily infested areas can help prevent the spread of the insects to other areas of the plant.
