Overview: Nototrichium sandwicense (Gray) Hbd.
Nototrichium sandwicense (Gray) Hbd. is a member of the plant family Asteraceae (the daisy family) and is native to the Hawaiian Islands. It is commonly known as ma`oli`oli or `ilima k? kahakai in the Hawaiian language and beach ilima in English.
Appearance:
This plant is a small, sprawling, evergreen shrub with woody, trailing stems. The leaves are small and triangular, with toothed edges and a slightly fuzzy texture. The flowers are showy, bright yellow, and resemble small daisies. They bloom year-round, but most commonly in the summer and fall months.
Uses:
Nototrichium sandwicense has a number of traditional medicinal and cultural uses. The plant is said to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties and has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including headache, fever, and stomach pain. The flowers are also used in lei-making and are considered a symbol of love and friendship. In addition, beach ilima serves as an important food source for native birds and insects.
Light Requirements
Nototrichium sandwicense is a sun-loving plant that thrives in full sunlight. It is commonly found in sandy or rocky areas, where there is little to no shade. This plant requires direct exposure to sunlight to carry out photosynthesis, which is necessary for growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
Nototrichium sandwicense is native to Hawaii and, therefore, prefers warm temperatures. It grows best in an environment that is between 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F). This plant can tolerate high temperatures as long as it receives enough water to stay hydrated. However, it is susceptible to frost, so it should be protected during cold weather.
Soil Requirements
Nototrichium sandwicense prefers well-draining soil that is moderately fertile. It grows best in soils that are sandy, rocky, or have good drainage. This plant can tolerate various soil pH levels, but it requires a soil pH that ranges between 6.0 to 7.5 for optimal growth. Additionally, this plant can tolerate salt spray, so it can grow in coastal areas.
Cultivation
Nototrichium sandwicense (Gray) Hbd., also known as Hawaii cotton, is native to Hawaii and is typically found at elevations of 1500 to 6000 feet. It is a relatively small plant that grows up to 2 feet in height and spreads around 1.5 feet wide. It is a drought-tolerant plant that thrives in well-drained soil. It prefers partial sun to full sun and can be propagated by seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
Hawaii cotton requires moderate watering. It is important to not overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. During periods of drought or hot weather, the plant may require more frequent watering to maintain healthy growth.
Fertilization
Nototrichium sandwicense does not require heavy fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. It is recommended to fertilize the plant once a month with a low dose of fertilizer. Over-fertilization can cause excessive growth and weaken the plant.
Pruning
Hawaii cotton does not require heavy pruning, but it can benefit from occasional trimming to remove dead or damaged branches. The best time to prune the plant is in early spring or late fall. Pruning during the growing season can cause stunted growth or damage to the plant. It is essential to use sharp and clean pruning tools to avoid disease transmission.
Propagation of Nototrichium sandwicense
Nototrichium sandwicense, also known as Hawaiian heliotrope, is a highly endangered plant species that is endemic to Hawaii. It can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and tissue culture.
Propagation by Seeds
The most common and simplest way to propagate Nototrichium sandwicense is through seeds. The plant produces small, black, and shiny seeds that can be collected when the flowers dry up and fall off in the late summer. Before sowing, the seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool and dry place. They can be stratified to promote germination by storing them in a refrigerator for one to two months before planting. After stratification, the seeds can be sown in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist until germination occurs.
Propagation by Cuttings
Nototrichium sandwicense can also be propagated by cuttings, but this method is more challenging than seed propagation. The cuttings should be taken from new growth in the spring or early summer and dipped in rooting hormone powder. They can be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist and warm until they develop roots. The cuttings should be shaded for a month or two after planting to reduce water loss and promote root establishment.
Propagation by Tissue Culture
Propagation by tissue culture is a more advanced method that is commonly used by professionals. It involves taking a small piece of plant tissue and growing it in a sterile nutrient medium in a laboratory. The tissue can be induced to form a callus, which can then be transferred to another nutrient medium to produce plantlets. Tissue culture propagation can produce a large number of genetically identical plants in a short amount of time and is useful for conserving rare and endangered plant species like Nototrichium sandwicense.
Disease and Pest Management for Nototrichium Sandwicense (Gray) Hbd.
Nototrichium sandwicense, commonly known as Hawaiian Silversword, is a rare and endangered plant native to the high elevations of Haleakala and Mauna Kea volcanoes in Hawaii. The unique structure of the leaves and the attractive appearance of the plant make it a popular choice for collectors and horticulturists. However, it is susceptible to several diseases and pests that can threaten its survival.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affect the Hawaiian Silversword is fungal leaf spot. This disease causes dark spots on the leaves, which can eventually lead to yellowing and dropping of the leaves. To manage this disease, it is essential to maintain good hygiene practices, including removing the infected leaves and avoiding overhead irrigation.
Another common disease that affects the plant is powdery mildew. This disease can be identified by the white powder-like substance that appears on the leaves. To manage powdery mildew, remove the infected leaves, and spray the plant with a fungicide. Avoid overhead irrigation and increase the air circulation around the plant to prevent future occurrences.
Common Pests
The Hawaiian Silversword is also susceptible to several pests, including mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Mealybugs and aphids suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing and stunted growth. Spider mites cause tiny, yellowish spots on the leaves, which can eventually cause leaf drop.
To manage these pests, it is important to regularly monitor the plant for signs of infestation. You can physically remove the pests by wiping them off the plant with a soft cloth or spraying the plant with insecticidal soap. Avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can attract pests. Finally, quarantine any new plants before introducing them to the garden, as they may bring in new pests.
By practicing good hygiene and pest management, you can help ensure the health and survival of the Hawaiian Silversword plant.
