Origin and Common Names
Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray var. stellatum Webster, also known as Starflower naio or Naio kea, is a rare endemic plant species found only in the Hawaiian Islands. It is a part of the family Scrophulariaceae.
Appearance
The Myoporum sandwicense var. stellatum is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It has a gnarly, twisted trunk and leathery, oval-shaped leaves that are around 2-4 inches long. The plant's most striking feature is its flowers, which are white, star-shaped, and around 1 inch in diameter. The flowers bloom in the summer months and are known to be fragrant.
Uses
Myoporum sandwicense var. stellatum has been utilized by the Hawaiian people for centuries for its medicinal properties. The leaves were made into a poultice and used to heal wounds, while the bark was brewed into a tea and used to remedy stomach aches. Today, the plant is primarily used for ornamental purposes due to its attractive appearance, and is grown in gardens and parks throughout Hawaii.
Light Requirements
Myoporum sandwicense var. stellatum is a low-light loving plant that requires full to partial shade for proper growth. Although it can tolerate some level of direct sunlight, it thrives best when grown in an area with bright but filtered light.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Myoporum sandwicense var. stellatum growth is between 60°F to 85°F. It will survive at lower or higher temperatures, but it may not grow as strongly or consistently during these extremes. However, it can survive brief periods of frost or high temperatures.
Soil Requirements
This plant grows well in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (pH 6.5 to 7.5). It can tolerate a wide variety of soil types, including loams, clays, and sandy soils. Ideally, the soil should also be nutrient-rich and have moderate water-holding capacity.
Cultivation
Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray var. stellatum Webster, commonly known as Hawaiian Myoporum or naio, is a slow-growing plant species found in Hawaii, where it is endemic. This species is a hardy shrub or tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall and is known for its attractive, round foliage and pink-white flowers.
When cultivating Hawaiian Myoporum, it is important to select a site with well-draining soil and full to partial sun exposure. This species is drought-tolerant and can thrive in a range of soil types, from sandy to loamy. However, it does require some irrigation during its establishment period and during dry periods.
Watering Needs
Hawaiian Myoporum requires moderate watering, especially during the initial establishment period. It is important to water deeply and infrequently to encourage root growth, which helps the plant better tolerate drought conditions. After the plant has established itself, it can tolerate dry periods relatively well, but it is still important to provide it with some irrigation during particularly hot or dry weather.
Fertilization
Fertilization is not required for Hawaiian Myoporum but can help promote its growth and foliage quality. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 once or twice a year in the spring and fall. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's dosage instructions and avoid overfertilizing, as this can damage the plant.
Pruning
Hawaiian Myoporum is a slow-growing plant that requires minimal pruning. However, limited and periodic pruning can help maintain its shape and promote new growth. Prune your Myoporum in late winter, removing any dead, diseased, or damaged growth. Cut back any excessively long branches to keep the plant compact and maintain its shape. Pruning can also encourage new growth and flowering.
Propagation of Myoporum Sandwicense var. stellatum Webster
Myoporum Sandwicense var. stellatum Webster, commonly known as ‘’Naio kea’’ or ‘’white naio’’, is a small evergreen tree or shrub that is endemic to Hawaii. The plant naturally occurs in coastal areas, dry and mesic forests, and lava fields. propagation of Myoporum Sandwicense var. stellatum Webster can be done through several methods such as seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
The propagation of Myoporum Sandwicense var. stellatum Webster by seeds can be an excellent method to increase the number of plants. The plant produces small fruits containing numerous seeds that can be harvested and sown in seedling trays or pots. The seeds should be cleaned and soaked for a few hours before sowing to improve germination rates. Although the process can take some time, it is a cost-effective method and can result in a large number of genetically diverse plants.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation of Myoporum Sandwicense var. stellatum Webster by cuttings is another popular method for commercial nurseries and gardeners. The process involves taking a semi-hardwood cutting from a mature plant and planting it in rooting hormone and well-drained soil. The cuttings should be kept in a shaded and humid environment until they develop roots, which can take a few weeks. This method can produce identical plants to the parent plant, ensuring genetic uniformity.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting is a technique used in propagating Myoporum Sandwicense var. stellatum Webster where a branch from a mature plant is united with a young plant or rootstock. This method helps to speed up the development of new plants and can also improve their growth performance. The process requires a bit of expertise and experience, and it may not be suitable for inexperienced growers. However, grafting can result in a robust and improved plant that has superior resistance to pests and diseases than a plant produced by other propagation methods.
Disease Management
Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray var. stellatum Webster is generally a healthy plant species. However, some diseases can affect its growth and yield. The common diseases that affect the plant include:
- Bacterial Leaf Spot: This disease appears as dark brown or black spots on the leaves. The disease spreads rapidly, causing defoliation and cankers on stem tissues. To manage bacterial leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and treat the plant with copper-based sprays.
- Fungal Leaf Spots: This disease appears as circular or irregular light brown spots on the leaves. The spots can coalesce and cause defoliation. The disease can be managed by removing the infected tissues and treating the plant with fungicides.
- Root Rot: This disease is caused by soil-borne fungi that attack the plant's roots, causing wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant. To manage root rot disease, use well-aerated soil, avoid waterlogging the soil, and treat the plant with fungicides.
Pest Management
Myoporum sandwicense (A. DC.) Gray var. stellatum Webster is usually resistant to pests, but some insects can still cause damage to the plant. The common pests that affect the plant species include:
- Black Twig Borer: This insect attacks the plant's stems and branches, causing wilting and death. To manage black twig borers, prune the affected areas and apply insecticides.
- Scale Insects: Scale insects affect the plant's foliage by sucking on the sap, resulting in yellowing and stunted growth. To manage these insects, prune the affected areas and apply insecticides.
- Aphids: Aphids are usually found on new growth and can cause wilting and death. To manage aphids, prune the affected areas and use insecticidal soaps or oils.
Regular monitoring of the plant species for disease and pest infestations is essential to ensure early detection and management. Proper sanitation, including pruning and removing infected plant parts, is crucial to prevent the spread of diseases and pests.
