Origin
Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray ssp. st.-johnii Webster, commonly known as Naio, is a species of flowering plant in the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. This tree is native to Hawaii and can be found growing in dry and coastal areas.
Common Names
The plant is known by several common names including Naio, False Sandalwood, and Kahili Naio. In Hawaii, it is known as 'Naio' and is often used as a landscaping species due to its appealing appearance and drought tolerance.
Uses
Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray ssp. st.-johnii Webster has been traditionally used in Hawaiian culture for medicinal and cultural purposes. The Hawaiian people would use the leaves and wood to make items such as nose flutes, fish hooks, and spears.
Moreover, the plant has several modern-day uses, namely, landscaping where it is valued for its drought tolerance, wind resistance, and its tolerance for salt spray. Naio wood is hard and dense, thus suitable for general carpentry, veneer, and furniture making.
General Appearance
Naio is a small tree that can grow up to 40 feet tall under favorable conditions but usually only grows up to 20 feet tall. It has a straight trunk with bark that is rough, cracking, and dark gray. The leaves are lance-shaped, glossy, and green, with a distinctive aroma. Naio produces small flowers with five white petals and a yellow center. The fruit is small, fleshy, and black.
Growth Conditions for Myoporum Sandwicense ssp. St.-johnii Webster
Light Requirements: Myoporum sandwicense ssp. st.-johnii Webster grows well in full sun to partial shade. In its natural habitat, it is found in open areas where it receives plenty of direct sunlight. However, it can also thrive in partially shaded areas under the canopy of other trees.
Temperature Requirements: This plant is native to Hawaii and is adapted to warm tropical environments. It grows best in temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C). It does not tolerate frost or cold temperatures and should be protected during winter months in colder climates.
Soil Requirements: Myoporum sandwicense ssp. st.-johnii Webster prefers well-draining soils with a slightly acidic pH between 5.5-7.5. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it does not tolerate soils that are constantly waterlogged. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged for optimal growth.
Fertilizer Requirements: This species does not require heavy fertilization. A general-purpose fertilizer can be applied once or twice a year to promote healthy growth. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive vegetative growth without much flowering.
Water Requirements: Myoporum sandwicense ssp. st.-johnii Webster prefers consistent moisture but can tolerate short periods of drought once established. It is important not to overwater this species, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Propagation: This species can be propagated from seed or cuttings. Cuttings are the preferred method as they are easier and more reliable. Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the spring or fall usually root successfully within a few weeks.
Cultivation methods
The Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray ssp. st.-johnii Webster, commonly known as Saint John's myoporum, is a relatively easy plant to cultivate. The ideal planting space for this plant is in loose and well-draining soil. The soil must be enriched with organic matter such as compost before planting. This plant thrives in full sunlight and subtropical climates with a temperature range of 60°F-90°F.
Watering needs
The Saint John's myoporum prefers moderate watering. It is essential to water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering intervals. Watering in the early morning hours is ideal as this allows the plant to dry before nightfall, reducing the risk of fungal infections.
Fertilization
To promote healthy growth and development of the Saint John's myoporum, it is recommended to fertilize the plant every three months. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains moderate levels of nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Avoid using fertilizers high in nitrogen as this can cause the plant to focus more on foliage growth and neglect the development of flowers.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the shape and size of the Saint John's myoporum. Pruning at least once a year is recommended after the blooming period is over. This can be done by removing the dead or diseased branches, shaping the plant, and removing any crossing branches. However, avoid over-pruning as this can lead to a reduction in flowering and seed production.
Propagation of Myoporum sandwicense ssp. St.-Johnii
Myoporum sandwicense ssp. st.-johnii, commonly known as Saint John's Myoporum, is a highly valued plant in Hawaii for its beauty and functionality in re-vegetation projects. It can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, layering, and grafting.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the simplest and most economical method of increasing the number of Myoporum sandwicense ssp. st.-johnii plants. The seeds should be collected during the flowering or fruiting period, ensuring that they are dry before planting. The seeds should be stratified at a temperature between 40 to 50°F for approximately 30 to 60 days. After stratification, sow the seeds in a well-drained medium and keep them moist. Germination should occur within 2 to 6 weeks, and the seedlings should be transplanted once they develop their second set of leaves.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by cuttings is a quick and direct method of propagating Myoporum sandwicense ssp. st.-johnii. Softwood cuttings should be taken in the spring or summer from current season growth, whereas hardwood cuttings can be taken in the fall or winter from the previous season's growth. The cuttings should be treated with a rooting hormone and placed in a rooting medium. After approximately 6 to 8 weeks, roots should develop, and the cuttings can be transplanted into a larger container or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation by layering is an effective method of propagating Myoporum sandwicense ssp. st.-johnii, as it promotes stronger root systems for new plants. Layering involves separating a lower branch from the mother plant, cutting it slightly and anchoring it to the ground. The base of the cutting should be nicked, and rooting hormone applied to it. Cover the branch and the cut with moist soil or peat moss, and keep it moist. Roots should develop within a few months, and the new plant can be separated and transplanted.
Propagation by Grafting
Propagation by grafting is a skilled method that ensures genetic consistency in desirable varieties of Myoporum sandwicense ssp. st.-johnii. The chosen rootstock should be a Myoporum species with a compatible vascular system, while the scion should be taken from a desirable parent tree. A clean cut should be made to join the rootstock and scion, and a sealing agent used to cover the wound. The grafted plant should be allowed to heal before planting.
Common Diseases and Pests for Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray ssp. st.-johnii Webster
Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray ssp. st.-johnii Webster is a type of plant that belongs to the figwort family. It is classified as endemic to Hawaii, making it susceptible to certain diseases and pests. Taking measures to prevent and manage these diseases and pests can keep this plant healthy and thriving.
Diseases
Myoporum sandwicense is prone to fungal infections, such as Myoporum thrips (Klambothrips myopori). This fungal infection is caused by the Klambothrips myopori species, which is common among myoporum species in Hawaii. The fungus causes discolored patches on the leaves, and eventually weakens and kills the whole plant. The best way to manage this fungus is to prune infected parts of the plant, water the plant properly and use a fungicide if necessary.
Pests
Myoporum sandwicense is also prone to pests such as the Glassy-winged sharpshooter. This pest is a common carrier of the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa, which infects the plant and causes leaf discoloration, wilting and death. Management of this pest is through natural predators, use of insecticidal soaps and oils, and chemical pesticides as a last resort.
Another pest that afflicts Myoporum sandwicense is the Mealybug. They are soft-bodied scale insects that feed on the plant's sap and sap can leave the plant weak and stunted. They can also transmit plant viruses. To manage the mealybug infestation, natural predators are utilized, such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. Other methods include washing the plant with a hose to dislodge the insects which minimizes their ability to feed and reproduce and use of insecticidal soap which suffocates them.
