Description of Ouratea subcordata
Ouratea subcordata, also known as "Ihi" or "Ihi makole," is a tree in the family Ochnaceae that is native to Hawaii and found in other Pacific Islands such as Tahiti and Samoa. The plant is primarily found in mesic to wet forests at elevations ranging from sea level to 2,300 feet.
General appearance
Ouratea subcordata is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 25 feet tall in favorable conditions. Its trunk is straight and can reach a diameter of 6 inches. The tree has a dense crown of shiny, dark green leaves that are elliptical in shape and 2-5 cm long. The leaves are arranged alternately on the stem and have smooth margins. The plant produces small yellow flowers that are less than 1 inch in diameter and are followed by spherical, reddish berries that are about 0.4-0.7 inches in diameter. The berries take about six months to ripen.
Common uses
Ouratea subcordata has several traditional uses in Hawaiian culture. The leaves and bark of the tree were used to make medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever and stomach problems. The wood of the tree was used for making weapons, tools, and utensils. The berries were consumed by Native Hawaiians as a source of food, and the tree was also used for decorative purposes. The plant is currently being studied for its potential medicinal properties and as a source of natural antioxidants.
Typical Growth Conditions of Ouratea subcordata (Stapf) Engl.
Light: Ouratea subcordata prefers bright indirect light or partial shade. Direct sunlight may cause leaf scorching. It can be grown in both indoor and outdoor settings, but it is essential to ensure that the plant is not exposed to extreme temperature variations or sudden changes in light conditions.
Temperature: Ouratea subcordata thrives in warm temperatures ranging between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. It is important to maintain consistent temperatures as sudden drops or rises in temperature can cause damage to the plant. Cold drafts and frost can also harm the plant, so it must be protected from exposure to extremely low temperatures.
Soil Requirements: Ouratea subcordata grows best in well-draining soil with a pH range between 5.5 to 7.5. It requires soil that is rich in organic matter and nutrients. The soil must be moist but not waterlogged, and it should be allowed to dry out to a certain extent between watering to prevent waterlogging. The plant can be potted in a mixture of peat moss, perlite and sand, which provides the perfect balance of moisture and drainage.
Overall, providing the right growth conditions is essential for the successful growth of Ouratea subcordata. By ensuring that the plant receives the appropriate light, temperature and soil conditions, you can help it thrive and enjoy its beautiful foliage for years to come.
Cultivation of Ouratea subcordata
Ouratea subcordata is a shrub or small tree that grows best in warm and humid climate. It can be grown both in full sun and partial shade.
The soil should be well-draining and fertile with a pH range from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. Add organic matter to enhance the soil quality.
Propagation is done through seeds or stem cuttings. For seed propagation, sow the seeds in a seedling tray with well-draining soil and keep it in a warm, humid place.
For stem cuttings, take a 4-6 inches cutting from the tip of a healthy branch and plant it in a container filled with well-draining soil. Cover the container with plastic to create a humid environment.
Watering Needs
Ouratea subcordata prefers moist soil but can also tolerate short periods of drought. Water the plant regularly during the summer season, and reduce watering during winters.
Ensure that the soil is not waterlogged, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer, rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, during the growing season. Follow the instructions provided on the fertilizer for the right proportion and frequency.
For organic fertilizers, use compost, manure, or bone meal. Avoid over-fertilization as it can lead to weak growth, pests, and diseases.
Pruning
Prune Ouratea subcordata during the dormant season to control its size and shape. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and maintain a strong central leader.
Remove any crossing branches, as they can rub against each other and cause wounds, which attract pests and diseases.
Cut back the tips of the remaining branches to promote bushier growth and increase flowering.
Propagation of Ouratea Subcordata (Stapf) Engl.
Ouratea subcordata is a beautiful and popular plant that can be propagated through different methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is a common method used to propagate Ouratea subcordata. The Seeds are collected from the mature fruits and are sowed immediately as they are not long-lasting. The germination of the seeds takes place in about two to three weeks. Germination was found to be higher when seeds were treated with 50% sulphuric acid for 10-12 minutes prior to sowing.
Cuttings Propagation
The plant can also be propagated using stem cuttings. Cuttings are taken from mature wood (semi-hardwood) and treated with rooting hormones before planting. They are planted in a mixture of organic soil and sand and kept moist while waiting for roots to develop, which usually takes about a month.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method you can use to propagate Ouratea subcordata. The stem of the parent plant is wounded, and moss wrapped around the wound. The moist moss is kept moist, and roots will eventually emerge. Once the roots are well developed, the plant can be cut from the parent plant and transplanted into a potting medium, and properly cared for until they're well established.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is an uncommon method for propagating Ouratea subcordata. It involves dividing the parent plant into smaller sections, making sure each section has healthy roots and shoots. Divisions are then repotted individually in sterile soil, and cared for until they're well established.
Propagation of Ouratea subcordata is relatively easy using any of these methods. Using the proper techniques, you can quickly grow multiple copies of this beautiful plant.
Disease and Pest Management for Ouratea Subcordata
Ouratea subcordata, also known as "Monkey Apple," "Small Monkey Orange," or "Mutton Apple," is a plant species traditionally used for medicinal purposes. It is mainly found in tropical and subtropical regions. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests.
Common Diseases
One of the common diseases that affect Ouratea subcordata is anthracnose, a fungal disease that appears as black spots on the leaves and stems, causing them to decay. To prevent anthracnose, you should keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overcrowding the foliage. You can also apply a copper fungicide every 7-14 days.
Another disease that can affect Ouratea subcordata is root rot, caused by fungi that inhabit moist soil. To avoid this, make sure that the soil has good drainage. If you suspect root rot, remove the affected roots and provide proper irrigation.
Common Pests
Ouratea subcordata can also be affected by pests such as mealybugs and spider mites. Mealybugs appear as a white cotton-like substance on the undersurface of leaves and stems, while spider mites appear as tiny red or brown spots on the leaves, causing discoloration and wilting. To control these pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs.
Caterpillars can also damage the leaves and fruits of Ouratea subcordata. You can handpick them or apply Bacillus thuringiensis, a bacterial insecticide that targets caterpillars.
Conclusion
Preventing and managing diseases and pests is crucial to maintain the health and productivity of Ouratea subcordata. Remember to keep the plant well-ventilated, avoid overcrowding, and provide proper irrigation and drainage. Use the appropriate chemicals and remedies to control pests and diseases while minimizing environmental damage. Regular monitoring and proper management practices can help ensure the continued health and survival of the plant.
