Overview of Pelea barbigera (Gray) Hbd.
Pelea barbigera, also known as the Hawaiian stinkwood or wiliwili 'ula, is a species of flowering plant in the family Rutaceae. It is native to Hawaii and can be found in dry forest, coastal mesic forest, and lowland rainforest habitats on the islands of Maui, Molokai, Oahu, Kauai, Lana'i, and Hawaii.
General Appearance
The Pelea barbigera plant typically grows up to 10 meters tall and has a trunk that measures up to 30 centimeters in diameter. Its bark is grayish-brown and has a rough texture. The leaves are compound and measure up to 35 centimeters in length. They are glossy and dark green, with a slightly curved or serrated edge.
The small, tubular flowers of Pelea barbigera are white or cream-colored and have a faint, sweet fragrance. The fruit of the plant is a small, rounded capsule that contains one or two shiny, black seeds.
Common Names and Uses
Pelea barbigera is commonly known as Hawaiian stinkwood, referring to the unpleasant odor emitted by the tree when its bark is damaged or cut. However, the wood of the tree is highly valued for its strength and durability, and has been traditionally used by Hawaiians to make tools, furniture, and canoe paddles.
The leaves and bark of the plant were also traditionally used in Hawaiian medicine to treat various ailments, such as coughs, fevers, and stomach pains. Today, the plant is considered a valuable ornamental tree and is often used in landscaping and reforestation projects in Hawaii.
Light
Pelea barbigera prefers to grow in full sun or partial shade. It can withstand direct sunlight for several hours a day without any problems. Therefore, it is recommended to grow this plant outdoors or near a window to provide adequate light.
Temperature
Pelea barbigera is a tropical plant that grows well in warm to hot temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C (74°F to 86°F). It cannot tolerate cold temperatures and must be protected from frost. Therefore, it is recommended to grow this plant indoors in colder regions or in a greenhouse where the temperature can be maintained.
Soil Requirements
Pelea barbigera grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range that ranges from 5.5 to 7.5. The soil must also be kept moist, but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot. Therefore, it is recommended to use a soil mix that is specifically formulated for tropical plants or to add peat moss and perlite to the potting mix.
Cultivation methods for Pelea barbigera
Pelea barbigera is a small tree that is native to Hawaii. Cultivating this plant is relatively easy since it is quite adaptable to different growing conditions. When planting this tree, ensure that it is placed in an area with well-draining soil, and there is adequate sunlight.
You can use either propagules or seeds when planting Pelea barbigera. However, planting using seeds takes more time for the plant to mature compared to using propagules. Propagules are typically available at nurseries and horticultural centers.
Watering needs
Pelea barbigera thrives in moderate to high humidity. Ensure that the soil is kept moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
You can check if the soil is ready for watering by poking a finger or a wooden stick into the soil. If it feels dry, it is time to water the plant. Watering should be done once or twice per week, depending on the moisture content of the soil.
Fertilization
For Pelea barbigera, fertilization is necessary to maintain its proper growth and health. Fertilizer application should be done during the growing season, which is typically from spring to fall. A balanced fertilizer with equal proportions of Nitrogen, Potassium, and Phosphorus is ideal for this plant.
Application of fertilizer should be done sparingly since overfertilizing can lead to fertilizer burn, damaging the plant. You can opt for organic fertilizers or slow-release fertilizers that provide a steady supply of nutrients over an extended period. Make sure to read the application instructions on the fertilizer package before applying it to the plant.
Pruning Pelea barbigera
Pelea barbigera requires minimal pruning, and it is only necessary to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, which is typically during late fall to early spring. This is the best time since the plant is not actively growing, and the wound can heal faster.
If the plant has outgrown its space, you can trim the branches to maintain its desired size and shape. You should use sterile pruning tools to avoid introducing infections to the plant. You can also apply a fungicide to the wound after pruning to prevent infection.
Propagation for Pelea barbigera (Gray) Hbd.
Propagation of Pelea barbigera (Gray) Hbd. can be done through various methods. The common methods of propagation are:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Pelea barbigera (Gray) Hbd. can be done through seeds. To propagate the plant through seeds, collect healthy and mature seeds from the parent plant. Then, sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and maintain moisture levels by misting the seeds regularly. Germination will occur in 2-3 weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Pelea barbigera (Gray) Hbd. can also be done through stem cuttings. Take a 6-inch long cutting from the parent plant and remove the lower leaves. Dip the base of the stem in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Maintain moisture levels and place the pot in a warm location, but out of direct sunlight. Roots will appear in 2-3 weeks.
Layering Propagation
Propagation of Pelea barbigera (Gray) Hbd. can also be done through a technique called layering. This involves bending a low lying branch of the plant to the ground and covering it with soil, leaving the tip of the branch exposed above ground. Roots will form at the point where the branch is in contact with the soil. Once fully rooted, the branch can be cut away from the parent plant and potted.
Disease and pest management for Pelea barbigera (Gray) Hbd.
Pelea barbigera (Gray) Hbd. is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the family Rutaceae. It is a native of Mexico and Central America, and it is known for its medicinal and ornamental properties. Like any other plant, Pelea barbigera is prone to diseases and pests, which can affect its growth and productivity. In this article, we will describe some common diseases and pests of Pelea barbigera and suggest ways to manage them.
Common diseases
There are several diseases that can affect Pelea barbigera. The most common diseases are:
- Root rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot. This disease is caused by over-watering and poor drainage. To manage root rot, you should avoid over-watering and provide proper drainage.
- Anthracnose: Anthracnose is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing them to develop black spots. This disease is caused by humid weather conditions. To manage anthracnose, you should ensure that the plant receives adequate air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a bacterial disease that affects the leaves of the plant, causing them to develop brown spots. This disease is caused by high humidity and poor air circulation. To manage leaf spot, you should ensure that the plant receives adequate air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Common pests
There are several pests that can affect Pelea barbigera. The most common pests are:
- Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to turn yellow and dry out. To manage spider mites, you should spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the leaves and stems of the plant, causing them to curl and wilt. To manage aphids, you should spray the plant with a solution of water and dish soap or neem oil.
- Scale insects: Scale insects are small, oval-shaped insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and die. To manage scale insects, you should spray the plant with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Overall, Pelea barbigera is a beautiful plant that requires proper care to thrive. By following these disease and pest management strategies, you can keep your plant healthy and productive.
