Origin
Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila (Heller) Skottsberg, commonly known as ?ohi?a lehua, is a native plant species to Hawaii, particularly the Big Island.
Common Names
The ?ohi?a lehua plant has many common Hawaiian names, including lehua, lehua ?ohi?a, ?ohi?a, and ?ohi?a ha.
Uses
The ?ohi?a lehua plant has significant cultural and environmental importance in Hawaii. The red flowers of the plant are commonly used for lei-making, hula decoration, and as a symbol of Hawaiian land and culture. The plant is also important ecologically, serving as a habitat and food source for many native birds and insects.
General Appearance
Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila (Heller) Skottsberg plant is a small, shrub-like tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall but is typically less than 10 feet in height. The plant has dark green, glossy leaves and produces bright red flowers, which can range in size from small and delicate to large and showy. The plant has a hardy, sturdy trunk and can be found in a variety of habitats, including dry, sunny slopes, and wet forests.
Light Requirements
Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila (Heller) Skottsberg requires plenty of sunshine to grow. This plant thrives in areas with bright sunlight and limited shade. It is essential to consider the plant's location when planting since it may receive shaded or indirect light, which can affect its overall growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-draining soil and can grow in various soil types like sandy, loamy, and clay soils. pH levels could range from neutral to slightly acidic. This plant is naturally found in volcanic soils, which are well-draining, slightly acidic, and allow good root growth.
Temperature Requirements
The Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila (Heller) Skottsberg can tolerate a range of temperature conditions. It can grow in both cooler and warmer temperatures. The optimal temperature range for this plant is 15-25°C. If the temperature drops below 12°C, the plant growth slows down, and prolonged temperatures below 5°C may harm it.
Cultivation
Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila (Heller) Skottsberg, commonly known as the dwarf ??hi?a, is a small shrub that is native to Hawaii. It is best grown in well-drained soil, high in organic matter. In its natural habitat, the plant grows in lava fields, so it can tolerate poor soil conditions.
When growing this plant, it's important to make sure it gets plenty of sunlight. The plant prefers full to partial sunlight, and it's essential to place it in a location where it can receive at least six hours of direct sunlight each day.
You can propagate the plant from seeds or cuttings. Cuttings are taken from semi-hardwood in spring. Once established, give the plant plenty of room to grow as the roots are shallow.
Watering Needs
The Metrosideros polymorpha var. pumila requires regular watering. Water the plant deeply and thoroughly, making sure to saturate the soil. It's best to water the plant in the morning or in the evening to avoid excessive water evaporation in the heat of the sun.
On average, the plant requires about one inch of water per week. However, watering should be adjusted depending on the soil's moisture levels and the specific needs of the plant.
Fertilization
Maintaining adequate nutrition is key in growing healthy and robust Metrosideros polymorpha var. pumila. Fertilize with a slow-release balanced fertilizer according to the instructions on the label.
It's best to fertilize the plant in spring when it is actively growing. Roughly 2-4 tablespoons of fertilizer can be added around the plant's base and worked into the soil.
Pruning
Metrosideros polymorpha var. pumila typically requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape and structure. Prune the plant to remove any damaged, diseased, or dead branches.
It's best to use a clean, sharp pair of pruning shears to avoid tearing or damaging the healthy tissue. If you wish to shape the plant, prune back the tips of the branches. Doing so will encourage fuller growth and help to maintain the plant's size. Pruning should be done in late winter to early spring before the new growth emerges.
Propagation of Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila (Heller) Skottsberg
Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila (Heller) Skottsberg, commonly known as dwarf ??hi?a, is a small tree or shrub that is endemic to Hawaii. This plant can be propagated through several methods including seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila can be collected from mature fruits which usually ripen during the summer months. The collected seeds should be cleaned, dried, and stored in a cool, dry place until they are ready for planting. Prior to planting, scarification of the seed coat is recommended to help break the hard outer layer and improve germination rates. After scarification, the seeds can be sown in a seed-starting mix and kept moist in a warm, bright location until they germinate which can take two to four weeks.
Propagation by Cuttings
The use of stem cuttings is another common method of propagating Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila. The best time to take cuttings is during the summer months when the plant is actively growing. Select healthy young stems and cut 4-6 inch sections that are free of flowers or buds. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting in a well-draining potting mix. The cuttings should be kept moist and covered with plastic until new growth appears in a few weeks.
Propagation by Air Layering
Air layering is another effective way to propagate Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila. This method involves creating a small wound on a stem and covering it with moist soil, moss, or plastic wrap to encourage the development of roots in that area. Once the roots have developed, the stem can be cut below the rooted area and transplanted to a new container. This method is particularly useful for plants that are difficult to propagate by other means.
Disease and Pest Management for Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila (Heller) Skottsberg
Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila (Heller) Skottsberg, commonly known as dwarf ??hi?a, is a plant species native to Hawaii. As with any plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can cause damage to the plant. Below are descriptions of the common diseases and pests that can affect the plant and suggested ways to manage them.
Diseases
Rust is a common disease that can affect the leaves of Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila. It is caused by a fungus and can be identified by small, yellow spots on leaves that gradually turn red-brown and become raised. To manage rust, remove infected leaves and prune any infected branches. Fungicides may also be used, but prevention is the best management strategy.
Leaf Spot is another fungal disease that can affect the foliage of the plant. Symptoms include yellow or brown spots on leaves that may have a gray or brown center with a dark border. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves, prune infected branches, and improve air circulation around the plant. Fungicides may also be used if necessary.
Pests
Aphids are a common pest that can infest Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud. var. pumila. They are small, soft-bodied insects that can appear in large numbers and feed on the leaves and shoots of the plant. To manage aphids, wash them off with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap or oil sprays. Biological control methods, such as releasing ladybugs or lacewings, can also be effective.
Spider mites are another pest that can affect the plant. They are tiny spider-like pests that can cause yellowing and browning of leaves. To manage spider mites, wash them off with water, apply insecticidal soap or oil sprays, or use predatory mites or insects.
Proper care and maintenance of the plant, such as regular watering, fertilization, and pruning, can also help prevent diseases and pests. Additionally, monitoring the plant regularly for any signs of disease or pest infestation can help catch issues early before they become severe.
