Nototrichium sandwicense (Gray) Hbd. var. helleri Sherff
Nototrichium sandwicense (Gray) Hbd. var. helleri Sherff, commonly known as ?ilima, is a Hawaiian plant that belongs to the sunflower family (Asteraceae). The plant is endemic to Hawaii and is found on all of the islands in the archipelago.
General Appearance
The ?ilima plant is a small shrub that grows up to 2 meters in height. It has dark green leaves that are oval in shape with a pointed tip and are covered in fine hairs. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that are approximately 2-3 cm in diameter, and its fruits are brown and have tiny hairs that allow them to be easily dispersed by the wind.
Uses
The ?ilima plant has been traditionally used by Native Hawaiians for a variety of purposes. The flowers were used to make leis, which were worn by both men and women. The plant was also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as coughs, sore throats, and fevers. Additionally, the bark of the ?ilima plant was used to make cordage, and the leaves were used to make a yellow dye for tapa cloth.
Today, the ?ilima plant is mostly grown as an ornamental plant and is used in landscaping due to its attractive flowers and foliage. The plant is also of cultural importance to Native Hawaiians and is considered a symbol of love and friendship.
Light Requirements
Nototrichium sandwicense var. helleri requires plenty of sunlight for its optimal growth. Therefore, it is recommended to place the plant in a location where it can receive full sun exposure of at least 6 hours per day.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers a temperature range of 18°C to 27°C (65°F to 80°F). It can tolerate cooler temperatures, but it may not grow as well. However, it prefers warm temperatures and is not frost-tolerant. Therefore, it is recommended to grow this plant indoors if the temperature drops below freezing.
Soil Requirements
Nototrichium sandwicense var. helleri can grow in a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils. However, the soil must be well-draining and slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5 for the plant to grow at its best. Additionally, the addition of organic matter, such as compost or leaf litter, can improve the soil quality and provide essential nutrients for the plant's growth.
Cultivation Methods
Nototrichium sandwicense (Gray) Hbd. var. helleri Sherff, commonly known as Heller's Nototrichium, is a rare plant species that is native to Hawaii. It thrives in the arid and semi-arid regions of the islands, and it is crucial to understand its growth habits to cultivate it successfully. The plant thrives in sandy or gravelly soils with good drainage, and it prefers full sunlight exposure. You can propagate it from seeds or vegetative cuttings, and careful planting ensures it can establish its roots and grow steadily.
Watering Needs
Nototrichium sandwicense (Gray) Hbd. var. helleri Sherff is a drought-tolerant plant that survives well on minimal watering, especially during the dry season. However, the plant requires regular watering during its first few months after planting to establish sturdy roots. Once established, it is advisable to allow the soil to dry before watering it again. Overwatering can cause root rot disease, and it is crucial to monitor the moisture levels in the soil to avoid this.
Fertilization
Nototrichium sandwicense (Gray) Hbd. var. helleri Sherff does not require much fertilizer, and applying too much can harm the plant. To ensure healthy growth, apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 fertilizer, during the plant's active growing season. This should be done once or twice per year, applying the fertilizer at a rate of one tablespoon per square foot of the plant's area.
Pruning
Pruning Nototrichium sandwicense (Gray) Hbd. var. helleri Sherff is not a necessary task, but it can help maintain the plant's shape and size. If the plant becomes overgrown or ungainly, you can use sharp pruning shears to remove any dead branches, stalks, or leaves. Avoid pruning too much of the plant, as it can affect the overall health and vitality of the plant.
Propagation of Nototrichium sandwicense var. helleri
Nototrichium sandwicense var. helleri, more commonly known as Heller's alpine knotweed, is a low-growing perennial herb that is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. Propagation of this plant can be done in several ways.
Seed Propagation
The most common way to propagate Nototrichium sandwicense var. helleri is through seed propagation. Collect mature seeds in the late summer or early fall when the seed capsules have turned brown and are starting to split open. Sow the seeds in a mix of sand and peat moss and place the planting tray in a warm, brightly-lit area. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Seeds should germinate within a few weeks.
Cutting Propagation
Another method of propagation is through cutting propagation. Take cuttings from the plant's stem during the growing season and dip the cuttings in rooting hormone. Place the cuttings in a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist. It is best to place the pot in a warm, humid environment and cover it with plastic wrap to create a mini greenhouse. Check daily for signs of new growth.
Division Propagation
Propagation can also be achieved through division propagation. Divide existing clumps of Nototrichium sandwicense var. helleri in the spring, when new growth is starting to emerge. Use a sharp, sterilized knife to divide the clumps into smaller sections and plant them in individual pots with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and place the pots in a warm, brightly-lit area until new growth emerges.
Disease Management
Nototrichium sandwicense var. helleri is vulnerable to several fungal diseases, including powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. Powdery mildew is caused by the fungus Golovinomyces cichoracearum and typically appears as white powdery masses on the leaves and stems. Rust is caused by Phragmidium fungus and appears as orange rust spots on the underside of the leaves. Leaf spot is caused by the fungus Mycosphaerella nototrichii and appears as brown spots on the leaves, often with a yellow halo.
The best way to manage fungal diseases is to keep the plant healthy and resistant. Providing proper nutrition and cultural conditions, like adequate drainage and soil fertility, can help the plant avoid infection. It is also important to prune dead and infected branches and leaves so that the fungi cannot spread further.
If fungal disease does occur, using fungicides like neem oil, copper-based fungicides, or sulfur-based fungicides can help control the spread of the disease. However, it is important to read and follow all instructions on the fungicide label to avoid damaging the plant.
Pest Management
Nototrichium sandwicense var. helleri is also vulnerable to several insect pests, including aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant, causing deformation and stunted growth. Spider mites are tiny, eight-legged pests that feed on the leaves, causing yellowing and brown stippling. Whiteflies are small, moth-like insects that suck sap from the plant and secrete a sticky substance called honeydew on the leaves, which can attract ants and cause sooty mold.
The best way to manage insect pests is to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation. Keeping the plant healthy and resistant, with proper nutrition and cultural conditions, can also help prevent infestations. If infestations do occur, using insecticidal soaps, oils, or sprays can help control the pests. Additionally, introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, or parasitic wasps can help control the pest populations.
