Overview
Melicope pallida (Hbd.) T.G. Hartley & B.C. Stone, also known as the Hawaiian pelea, is a small tree species of the Rutaceae family. This plant is endemic to Hawaii and has a variety of historical and cultural uses.
Appearance
The Hawaiian pelea is a small tree that typically grows up to 7 meters tall. The tree has smooth gray bark and produces ovate leaves that measure up to 15 centimeters long. The plant also grows flowers with five white petals and has small edible fruits with a tart flavor.
Common Names
The Hawaiian pelea is commonly referred to as akia, hapu, or mamaki in the Hawaiian language. It is also known as the Melicope pallida which is its scientific name.
Uses
The Hawaiian pelea has a variety of cultural uses. In traditional Hawaiian medicine, the leaves of the tree were used to make a tea to treat a variety of ailments such as stomach pains and headaches. The fruits of the tree were also edible and commonly consumed by Native Hawaiians. Additionally, the bark and wood of the tree were used to make items such as bowls, spears, and fishhooks.
Light Requirements
Melicope pallida typically grows in partially shaded areas with dappled light. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight for extended periods of time. These plants prefer to grow under the canopy of trees or in areas where they receive filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm and humid conditions. It thrives in temperatures ranging from 20-30°C. Temperatures below 15°C may cause the plant to become dormant or die. The plant can be grown outdoors in tropical to subtropical regions or indoors in a warm and humid environment.
Soil Requirements
Melicope pallida prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy soils, loamy soils, and clay soils. The soil pH should range between 5.5 and 7.5. Regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer will help the plant thrive.
Cultivation
Melicope pallida is a hardy plant that can be grown in various soil types, including sandy and clay soils. It prefers well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH range between 5.5 and 7.5. This plant can be grown in full sun to partial shade depending on the environmental conditions in the area.
In areas where the plant is not native, it can be propagated by seeds or cuttings. However, care should be taken to ensure that the source of seeds or cuttings is from a reliable and trustworthy source. The plant can be grown in containers or directly in the ground. When planting, ensure that it is appropriately spaced, allowing enough room for growth and development.
Watering needs
Melicope pallida requires moderate watering, and it is essential to avoid overwatering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other plant diseases. Generally, watering the plant once a week is sufficient, depending on the environmental conditions. However, during the summer or in dry weather, it may require more frequent watering.
It is advisable to water the plant in the morning to allow enough time for the soil to dry before the evening. Watering in the evening can lead to prolonged moisture on the leaves and stems, fostering the growth of fungi and other plant diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential to promote the growth and development of Melicope pallida. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer on the plant during the growing season. Fertilizer application should be done once a month or every six weeks. Be careful not to apply too much fertilizer, which may lead to the yellowing of leaves and other plant problems.
It is essential to monitor the plant's response to the fertilizer to determine the optimal amount and frequency of application. In case of any issues, reduce or discontinue the fertilizer application and seek expert advice if necessary.
Pruning
Pruning is essential in maintaining Melicope pallida's shape, promoting flower and fruit production and controlling the plant's size. Pruning should be done during the dormant season or after flowering to avoid removing flower buds.
The pruning techniques used will depend on the intended purpose, which may include removing dead or diseased branches, shaping the plant, or controlling its size. When pruning, use sharp and clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant's branches. Additionally, it is essential to disinfect the pruning shears between plants to prevent the spread of plant diseases.
Propagation of Melicope pallida
Melicope pallida, commonly known as the Hilihili, is a Hawaiian native plant that belongs to the citrus family. This plant is shrubby and has fragrant yellow-green leaves. It produces small white flowers and fruits that turn yellowish-orange when ripe. Propagation of Melicope pallida can be done through different methods, including seed propagation, stem cuttings, air layering, and grafting.
Seed propagation
Propagation of Melicope pallida through seed is the most natural and straightforward method. Collect seeds from fully ripe fruits and sow them in a sterile potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in bright indirect light. Germination may take up to several months, and the seedlings can be transplanted to larger pots or the ground when they are three inches tall.
Stem cuttings
Propagation of Melicope pallida through stem cuttings is also a common method. Cut a six-inch healthy stem from an existing plant, remove the lower leaves, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting in a pot with well-draining soil and keep it moist in bright indirect light. Roots should form in about eight weeks, and the new plant can be transplanted to a bigger pot or the ground.
Air layering
Air layering is another method of propagation for Melicope pallida. This method involves making a cut on a healthy stem, wrapping it with moist sphagnum moss, and covering it with a plastic bag to keep the humidity high. Roots should form in about six weeks, and the rooted stem can be cut and planted in a new pot or the ground.
Grafting
Grafting is a more advanced method of propagation for Melicope pallida. It involves joining a cutting from a desired variety to a rootstock of a different variety. This method can produce stronger and more vigorous plants with better disease resistance. Grafting should be done by a skilled gardener or horticulturist.
Disease and Pest Management for Melicope Pallida
Melicope pallida is a species of flowering plant in the citrus family, Rutaceae. Like all plants, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests that can affect its growth and survival. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and some ways to manage them.
Diseases
Phytophthora root rot: This disease is caused by a fungus-like organism called Phytophthora. It affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and eventually leading to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and plant death. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid overwatering the plant and to ensure good drainage. The soil should also be well-aerated and not too compacted. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Powdery mildew: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant. It appears as a white or grayish powder-like substance on the surface of the leaves. It can cause leaves to curl and eventually drop off. To manage this disease, it is important to maintain good air circulation around the plant, avoid overwatering, and remove infected leaves. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Citrus canker: This bacterial disease affects the leaves, twigs, and fruit of the plant. It causes raised, corky lesions on the surface of the leaves and fruit, eventually leading to defoliation and fruit drop. To manage this disease, infected plant parts should be removed and destroyed. Copper-based fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Pests
Citrus psyllids: These are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. They can also transmit a bacterial disease called Huanglongbing (HLB). To manage citrus psyllids, it is important to remove any weeds or other plant debris around the plant, as they can be a breeding ground for the insects. Insecticides can also be used to control them.
Citrus leaf-miner: This is a pest that tunnels through the leaves of the plant, leaving distinctive patterns on the surface. It can weaken the plant and make it more susceptible to diseases. To manage citrus leaf-miners, it is important to remove and destroy infected leaves. Insecticides can also be used to control the pest.
Scales: These are small, non-mobile insects that attach to the bark of the plant and feed on its sap. They can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves, as well as branch dieback. To manage scales, it is important to remove and destroy infected plant parts. Insecticides can also be used to control the pest.
With proper disease and pest management, Melicope pallida can thrive and provide beauty and ecological benefits. Regular monitoring of the plant's health and taking appropriate actions at the first sign of diseases or pests is essential to ensure its longevity.
