Plant Description:
Melicope obovata, commonly referred to as stinkwood or swampy hopbush, is a small evergreen shrub or tree belonging to the citrus family Rutaceae. The plant grows up to 15 feet tall and can have a spread of up to 20 feet wide.
Origin:
The plant is native to the islands of Hawaii, where it can be found growing in wet or swampy regions in low elevation areas of Maui, Molokai, and Oahu.
Common Names:
The plant is commonly known as stinkwood or swampy hopbush in English. In Hawaiian, it is called alani.
Uses:
The wood of the Melicope obovata plant is highly valued in Hawaii for its durability and strength. It is used to make tool handles, furniture, and other high-end wooden products. The leaves and bark of the plant have also been used in traditional Hawaiian medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including stomachaches, fevers, and headaches.
The plant is also valued for its ornamental purposes. Its delicate white flowers and shiny, dark green leaves make it an attractive addition to any garden or landscape. It is a popular plant for erosion control and is often planted in wetlands to help maintain the ecosystem.
Light requirements
The Melicope obovata plant typically grows in areas with bright, indirect light. It can also tolerate some shade, but too much shade can hinder its growth. In its natural habitat, this plant usually grows under the canopy of other tall trees, which suggests that it is well adapted to partial to full shade.
Temperature requirements
The Melicope obovata plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions and thus, thrives in a warm and humid climate. The ideal temperature range for the plant growth is between 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). When planted in regions with lower temperatures, the plant may not grow as quickly or robustly as it would in more optimal conditions.
Soil requirements
The Melicope obovata plant prefers well-draining soils rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are well-drained. The soil pH for optimal growth ranges from 5.5 to 7.5, with a slightly acidic soil being ideal. The plant can tolerate small amounts of salt in the soil but performs best in soils with low salinity levels.
Cultivation methods
Melicope obovata (St. John) T.G. Hartley & B.C. Stone is a fast-growing shrub. It prefers to grow in well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The plant is best grown under full sun and tolerates both dry and moist conditions. The ideal temperature range should be between 60°F to 85°F.
Watering needs
Proper watering is essential for the healthy growth of Melicope obovata. The plant requires regular watering, especially during the dry season. The soil should be kept moist but not watered excessively. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Melicope obovata requires fertilization to ensure proper growth and development. Fertilize the plant with balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy and vigorous growth. Avoid over-fertilization as it can cause problems like leaf burn and root damage.
Pruning
Regular pruning helps to maintain the shape and size of the shrub. Prune the plant during the dormant season to reduce the risk of disease and to encourage healthy growth. Remove any dead or diseased branches as soon as possible. Prune back the tips of the branches to promote branching.
Propagation of Melicope obovata
Melicope obovata can be propagated through various methods such as seeds, stem cuttings, and air layering.
Seeds
The seeds of Melicope obovata can be collected from the mature fruit, which turns from green to brown when it ripens. It is essential to collect the seeds when they are matured because immature seeds may not germinate. The collected seeds should be washed and dried before sowing. The best time to sow the seeds is during spring. The soil should be well-drained and rich in humus. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes about 2-4 weeks.
Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings can be taken from the mature and healthy stems of Melicope obovata during late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 10-15 cm long and should have at least three nodes. Remove the leaves from the lower part of the cutting and dip the end in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in well-draining soil and keep it in a shaded area. The cutting will develop roots within about 4-6 weeks.
Air Layering
Air layering is another method that can be used to propagate Melicope obovata. This method involves creating a small cut in the stem, placing a rooting hormone on the cut, and wrapping the area with damp sphagnum moss and plastic wrap. After a few weeks, roots will develop, and the new plant can be separated from the original plant. This method is useful for propagating mature plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Melicope obovata
Melicope obovata, commonly known as the golden peacock tree, is a tropical tree that is native to Southeast Asia and can grow up to 10 meters tall. Like all plants, it is vulnerable to diseases and pests, which can cause significant damage to the plant and its growth. Proper disease and pest management practices can help prevent and control these problems. Below are some common diseases and pests that might affect this plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Fusarium Wilt: Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing the foliage to wilt and turn yellow. The best way to prevent the spread of Fusarium wilt is to avoid susceptible cultivars and maintain proper soil drainage. Remove infected plants and avoid planting anything in that area for several years.
Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes leaf spots or older dead blotches on foliage. The best way to control anthracnose is to prune infected branches and remove the infected leaves to prevent the fungus's spread.
Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a bacterial or fungal disease that causes circular or irregular brown or black spots on the leaves. The best way to prevent leaf spots is to keep the plant healthy, avoid overhead watering, and ensure proper soil drainage.
Common Pests
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are white cottony insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing stunted growth and leaf drop. The best way to control mealybugs is to cut back on watering, inspect the plant regularly, and remove any visible signs of mealybugs with water or rubbing alcohol.
Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellow or brown spots on the leaves. The best way to control spider mites is to maintain proper soil moisture, use insecticidal soap, and prune the affected plant parts.
Scale Insects: Scale insects are tiny pests that feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowed and wilted foliage. The best way to control scale insects is to remove them manually with a sharp pruner, use a systemic insecticide, and avoid over-fertilizing the plant.
In conclusion, Melicope obovata can be susceptible to various diseases and pests, but with proper disease and pest management practices, you can prevent and control these problems. Timely action is essential to control the spread of diseases and pests, so it is crucial to inspect your plant regularly and take the necessary measures to keep it healthy.
