Overview of Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. fauriei (Levl.) Skottsberg
Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. fauriei (Levl.) Skottsberg, also known as the Fauriei variety, is a flowering plant native to the Hawaiian Islands. It is one of the several varieties of Metrosideros polymorpha, commonly known as the ??hi?a lehua, which belongs to the myrtle family (Myrtaceae).
Common Names
This plant species has several common names, including ??hi?a, lehua, and ??hi?a lehua. In some cultures, it is also referred to as "menziesii" or "Hawaiian hobblebush."
Appearance
The Fauriei variety of the ??hi?a lehua is a small evergreen shrub or a tree that grows up to 30 feet high. It has dark green and glossy leaves, and its distinctive flowers range in color from bright red to yellow and are often seen on the plant all year round. The flowers are shaped like a tube and have several long stamens that extend beyond the petals. One of the unique characteristics of this plant is the reddish-brown or gray bark that peels off to reveal a bright, reddish-brown layer.
Uses
The Fauriei variety of the ??hi?a lehua has cultural significance in Hawaiian culture and is used in traditional medicine to treat a range of ailments, such as stomach aches and respiratory problems. The plant is also used in commercial landscaping and as an ornamental plant due to its showy flowers and attractive bark. Additionally, the plant is used in soil conservation efforts due to its ability to stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
Light Requirements
The Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. fauriei (Levl.) Skottsberg, commonly known as the 'Ohia Lehua' plant, requires full sun to grow effectively. It tends to grow naturally in areas where there is sufficient sunlight. Therefore, if one intends to grow the plant artificially, adequate sunlight is necessary. Particular attention to ensuring that the plant does not receive prolonged periods of shade, as this can inhibit its growth and development.
Soil Requirements
The Ohia Lehua plant prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 4.5 to 7.5. The soil should be relatively moist, but not waterlogged. If necessary, one can use a well-draining potting mix with a high percentage of organic matter to retain moisture. When planting the Ohia Lehua, it's vital to ensure that the plant's roots are entirely covered in the soil. This helps the plant to establish roots and grow correctly.
Temperature Requirements
The Ohia Lehua plant prefers the average to warm temperatures to grow. It thrives in an environment where the temperatures range between 60°F to 80°F. When the temperature drops below 50°F, the plant's growth begins to slow down. The plant tends to become dormant when the temperature falls to 40°F or lower. Due to its preference for warm temperatures, the Ohia Lehua plant is best suited for use in tropical and subtropical climates such as Hawaii.
Cultivation
Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. fauriei (Levl.) Skottsberg, commonly known as the 'Ohia Lehua' plant, is native to Hawaii. This plant prefers subtropical to tropical regions and requires a warm and humid climate to grow. The plant prefers well-draining soil and slightly acidic conditions with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5.
Propagation can be done through seeds or cuttings. When propagated through seeds, soak them in water for 24 hours before planting. The plant must be protected from strong winds, as it can damage the plant's growth.
Watering Needs
The 'Ohia Lehua' plant requires consistent watering. The plant prefers moist soil, but it should not be watered excessively. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. Watering the plant once a week during the dry season is recommended. During the rainy season, water the plant only once in two weeks.
Fertilization
Fertilizing the plant should be done in the growing season from April to September. Fertilization with a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer is ideal. The fertilizer should be applied to moist soil around the plant's base. Care must be taken not to fertilize during the dormant period as it can cause potential damage to the plant.
Pruning
To encourage the plant's growth, pruning should be done during the early spring season. It is essential to prune dead or damaged branches from the plant, enhancing the growth of new branches. It is better to prune the plant when it is dormant. Pruning during the dormant period helps the plant get rid of any disease and prepare for new growth in the upcoming spring season.
Propagation of Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. fauriei (Levl.) Skottsberg
Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. fauriei (Levl.) Skottsberg, commonly known as Faurie’s or Pua kenikeni tree, is a plant native to Hawaii. It is a popular ornamental plant because of its fragrant flowers and attractive appearance. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods, including seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation through seeds is possible, but it is not a common method due to the low germination rate. The seeds require light to germinate, so they need to be sown on the surface of well-draining soil mix. It is essential to keep the soil moist during the germination process, which can take up to six months. Once the seedlings reach a height of 3-4 inches, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is an effective way to propagate Pua kenikeni trees. The best time to take cuttings is during spring and summer, using softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from a healthy and mature plant, and the leaves should be removed from the lower half of the stem. The cuttings should then be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The container should be kept in a warm and bright location, and the soil should be kept consistently moist. The cuttings should root within 6-8 weeks, and once they have developed a robust root system, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by air layering
Air layering is a propagation method that involves creating a small wound in the stem of a mature plant and encouraging roots to grow from that wound. This method is effective for Pua kenikeni trees because they have relatively thin stems. It is best done during spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. The process involves selecting a healthy and mature stem and creating a small wound by removing a section of bark. The wound should then be covered with moss, wrapped with plastic, and secured in place. Roots should start to grow within a few weeks. Once the roots are 1-2 inches long, the stem can be cut below the rooted section and transplanted into a container.
Propagation of Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. fauriei (Levl.) Skottsberg may require some patience, but it is an enjoyable process that can lead to a beautiful and fragrant plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. fauriei (Levl.) Skottsberg
Maintaining the health of Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. fauriei (Levl.) Skottsberg is important as it is susceptible to a few plant diseases and pest attacks. Effective disease and pest management can help prevent or reduce damage. Regular inspection of the plant is the best way to detect any sign of disease or infestation early.
Common Diseases of Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. fauriei (Levl.) Skottsberg
1. Fusarium Wilt: This disease can affect the plant's root, stem, and foliage. It is caused by the Fusarium oxysporum fungus that enters through the roots and blocks the water path. Early symptoms include yellowing and wilting of leaves, followed by the death of the plant. Management practices include planting disease-resistant varieties and improving soil drainage.
2. Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. Symptoms include leaf spots, wilting, and twig dieback. Regular pruning and sanitation practices can help remove the infected parts. Fungicides can also be applied to reduce the spread of the disease.
3. Leaf Spot: This disease is caused by the fungus Cercospora spp. Symptoms include small, circular, dark spots on the leaves. Cultural practices such as proper spacing, using clean tools, and avoiding overhead irrigation can prevent the spread of the fungus. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
Common Pests of Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. fauriei (Levl.) Skottsberg
1. Spider Mites: These pests suck sap from the leaves and cause yellowing, bronzing, and stunted growth. They are more prevalent in dry weather conditions. The use of predatory mites or ladybugs can help control their population. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be applied to reduce the infestation.
2. Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the plant's sap, causing deformed leaves and flowers. The use of yellow sticky traps can help trap them, or applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can control their population.
3. Mealybugs: These pests produce a white, cottony substance on the foliage and stems and weaken the plant's health. They can be removed by physically wiping them off or using insecticidal soap or neem oil to reduce the population.
By paying close attention to Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. fauriei (Levl.) Skottsberg and responding promptly to any signs of disease or pest infestation, the plant can remain healthy, vibrant, and productive for years to come.
