Origin
Myoporum sandwicense var. fauriei, commonly known as Faurie's myoporum, is a species of flowering plant in the myrtle family, Myrtaceae. It is native to the Hawaiian Islands, where it can be found growing in dry and mesic forests, shrublands, and coastal areas at elevations up to 890 meters.
Common Names
Faurie's myoporum is also known by several other names, including naio, bastard sandalwood, and false sandalwood. The name "naio" is derived from the Hawaiian word for "suffocate," referring to the plant's dense growth habit that can choke out other vegetation.
Uses
Faurie's myoporum has several traditional uses in Hawaiian culture. The strong-scented wood was used for making weapons, tool handles, and surfboards, and the bark was used for dyeing kapa (bark cloth) red-brown. The leaves and stem were used to treat stomachaches, wounds, and respiratory ailments.
Today, Faurie's myoporum is mainly used as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscaping projects due to its attractive foliage and showy white flowers. It is also planted as a windbreak and erosion control plant in coastal areas, as it can tolerate salt spray and windy conditions.
General Appearance
Faurie's myoporum is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree or shrub that can reach up to 10 meters in height. It has a dense round canopy of glossy, leathery leaves that are oval in shape and measure up to 5 centimeters long. The leaves are a bright green color on top and paler underneath, and they emit a strong aroma when crushed.
From May to August, Faurie's myoporum produces numerous clusters of small white flowers that are highly fragrant and attract bees and butterflies. The flowers are followed by small, fleshy berries that are red or purple in color and contain up to four seeds.
Light Requirements
Myoporum sandwicense var. fauriei typically requires full sunlight for optimal growth. This plant can tolerate some shade, but it may result in weaker growth and a less dense foliage canopy.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is best suited for warm and humid climates. Average temperatures between 60-85°F (15-30°C) are ideal. Highly fluctuating temperatures or prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can stunt growth, damage foliage, and even lead to plant death.
Soil Requirements
Well-draining soil is crucial for the healthy growth of Myoporum sandwicense var. fauriei. This plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 6-7). The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrients. It is important to ensure adequate soil moisture to prevent drying out, especially during long dry spells or in warmer climates.
Cultivation Method
Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray var. fauriei (Levl.) Kraenzlin is a hardy plant that can be grown indoors or outdoors. It grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can be propagated from seeds or cuttings taken from mature plants. To ensure successful propagation, it is advisable to select healthy plants that are disease-free.
Watering Needs
The Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray var. fauriei (Levl.) Kraenzlin plant requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the leaves to wilt and drop. The plant prefers to be watered in the morning or evening when the temperatures are cooler.
Fertilization
The Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray var. fauriei (Levl.) Kraenzlin plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season, which is usually in spring and summer. Fertilizers that are high in nitrogen should be avoided as these can cause the plant to produce more foliage at the expense of flowers. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal. Always follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the best results.
Pruning
The Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray var. fauriei (Levl.) Kraenzlin plant can be pruned to maintain its shape and promote bushy growth. Pruning should be done in the spring after the plant has finished flowering. It is advisable to use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant. The plant can be pruned lightly by trimming the tips of the branches or more heavily by cutting back up to one-third of the plant's total height. Dead branches and leaves should be removed promptly.
Propagation of Myoporum sandwicense var. fauriei
Myoporum sandwicense var. fauriei is a low-growing, spreading shrub that is commonly found in Hawaii, where it is also known as naio. It is a popular plant for landscaping in coastal areas due to its tolerance for salt spray and sandy soils. The plant is relatively easy to propagate, and there are several methods that can be used.
Seed Propagation
One method of propagating Myoporum sandwicense var. fauriei is through seeds. The seeds are small and can be collected directly from the plant when they are ripe. The seeds should be sown in a well-draining potting mix in a container with drainage holes. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the container in a bright, sunny location. Germination typically occurs within 2-4 weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Another method of propagating Myoporum sandwicense var. fauriei is through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem with no flowers or buds and cut it at a 45-degree angle. Remove the leaves from the bottom 2 inches of the stem and dip the cut end into rooting hormone. Place the cutting into a well-draining potting mix in a container with drainage holes. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged and place the container in a bright, shaded location. Roots should start to form within 3-4 weeks.
Air Layering Propagation
A third method of propagating Myoporum sandwicense var. fauriei is through air layering. Select a healthy stem and make a small cut about 1 inch long, just below a node. Dust the cut with rooting hormone and wrap moist sphagnum moss around the cut. Cover the moss with plastic wrap and secure it with tape. Roots should start to form within a few months, at which point the stem can be cut off and planted in a well-draining potting mix.
Disease Management for Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray var. fauriei (Levl.) Kraenzlin
Diseases affecting Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray var. fauriei (Levl.) Kraenzlin include root rot, powdery mildew, and cankers. Root rot is a fungal disease caused by over-watering and poor soil drainage. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that thrives in humid conditions and cankers are caused by bacterial or fungal invasion.
Effective management of root rot involves ensuring proper drainage by planting in well-draining soil and avoiding over-watering. Application of fungicides can also be done when there are signs of fungal growth, though the use of fungicides is not always needed.
Powdery mildew can be prevented by maintaining low humidity and good air circulation. The use of fungicides can also help in controlling powdery mildew outbreaks. Prevention of cankers includes avoiding mechanical damage to the trunk and bark. Infected plant parts should be pruned and disposed of properly.
Pest Management for Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray var. fauriei (Levl.) Kraenzlin
Common pests that might affect Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray var. fauriei (Levl.) Kraenzlin include scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites.
Scales and mealybugs can be controlled by using insecticidal soap solutions. Spider mites can be managed by releasing predatory mites that feed on them or spraying with a suitable insecticide.
Regular inspection of the plant and early detection of pests can help prevent severe infestations. Avoiding the use of broad-spectrum pesticides and opting for more targeted treatments can also help maintain the plant's overall health and prevent harm to beneficial insects.
