Overview
Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone, also known as the Goldenbrush Ribbonwood, is a shrub species in the Rutaceae family. It belongs to the genus Pelea, which consists of approximately 130 species of evergreen trees and shrubs found in tropical and subtropical regions.
Origin
Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone is native to Hawaii, specifically the islands of Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii. The species thrives in a range of habitats, from dry shrublands to mesic and wet forests.
Common Names
The Goldenbrush Ribbonwood gets its common name from the bright yellow flowers that bloom against the dark green, glossy leaves of the shrub. Other common names for the species include Clusia-Leaved Pelea and Auriculate-Leaved Pelea.
Uses
The Goldenbrush Ribbonwood has various medicinal properties, and indigenous peoples of Hawaii have used it to treat a range of ailments, from coughs and colds to stomach aches and bacterial infections. The species is also grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and drought-tolerant qualities.
General Appearance
The Goldenbrush Ribbonwood is a shrub that typically grows to a height of around 8 feet and has a spread of 6 to 8 feet. Its leaves are dark green, glossy, and oblong to elliptic, measuring 1.5 to 5 inches long and 0.5 to 2 inches wide. The shrub produces small flowers that are yellow, measuring around 0.2 inches across and borne in clusters of up to 20. The flowers are followed by round, brown fruit capsules that contain several seeds.
Light Requirements
The Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone requires bright, direct light to grow and flourish. This plant prefers to bask in full sunlight, although it can tolerate partial shade. It is recommended to place the plant indoors near a bright window or outside in an area that receives full sun exposure.
Temperature Requirements
The Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone is a tropical plant that prefers warmer temperatures. It grows well in an environment with temperatures between 60-85°F (15-29°C). Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can harm the plant, leading to stunted growth and overall poor health.
Soil Requirements
This plant thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone likes soil that is slightly on the acidic side with a pH level between 5-6.5. As a tropical plant, it requires frequent watering, yet it is important to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone is a plant that grows well in subtropical and tropical climates. It requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It is recommended to plant in a location that receives partial shade, especially in hotter climates. When planting, ensure that the root ball is well watered before placing it in the hole. Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone can be propagated from seeds or cuttings.
Watering Needs
Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone prefers a moderate amount of water. It is important to not overwater this plant, as it can lead to root rot. During the warmer months, water the plant once a week or when the top inch of soil feels dry. In the cooler months, reduce watering to once every two weeks or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization can aid Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone in achieving optimal growth. Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every six months. During the growing season, it is also recommended to fertilize every two months with a liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength.
Pruning
Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone requires minimal pruning. However, some pruning may be necessary to maintain its desired shape and size and to remove any dead or diseased branches. Pruning should be done during the plant's dormant season. It is important to use clean, sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia
Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone can be propagated both sexually and asexually. The plant is commonly propagated through seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation by seeds
The plant produces small, slightly flattened, round seeds that are dispersed naturally by wind and birds. The seeds should be collected when they are ripe and sown immediately.
Before sowing, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24-48 hours to soften the hard seed coat. After soaking, the seeds should be sown in a well-draining seedling mix. They should be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist.
Germination of the seeds usually occurs within 3-4 weeks, and the seedlings can be transplanted to a bigger container after they have developed their true leaves.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Stem cuttings of Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia can be taken at any time of the year. However, the best time to take cuttings is during the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing.
The cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and should be 6-8 inches in length. The bottom leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone powder.
The cuttings can be rooted in a well-draining rooting mix and should be kept moist. They should be placed in a warm, bright location, but not in direct sunlight. After a few weeks, the cuttings should develop roots, and they can be transplanted to a bigger container.
Disease and Pest Management for Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone
Although Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone is generally resistant to most diseases and pests, some issues may arise. It is important to identify these issues promptly and take necessary measures to prevent their spread.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Pelea clusiifolia is leaf spot, caused by the fungus Cercospora. Symptoms include small brown spots on the leaves, which can eventually cause defoliation. The best management strategy is to promptly remove and destroy any infected leaves and to avoid overhead watering. Applying a fungicide spray can also help manage the issue.
Another disease that may affect Pelea clusiifolia is powdery mildew, caused by the funguses Erysiphe cichoracearum and Sphaerotheca fuliginea. Symptoms include white powdery patches on the leaves, stems and flowers of the plant. To manage the issue, apply neem oil or a sulfur-based fungicide spray to the affected areas. Keeping the plant well-ventilated and avoiding overhead watering can also prevent powdery mildew from taking hold.
Common Pests
Scale insects and mites may occasionally infest Pelea clusiifolia. Symptoms may include yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and leaf drop. A visual inspection of the plant should be conducted frequently and if pests are found, apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap immediately. Another solution is to wipe affected areas with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol.
Caterpillars can also infest Pelea clusiifolia. Symptoms may include chewed leaves and damaged flowers. The best management strategy is to handpick the caterpillars off the plant. If necessary, insecticidal sprays can also be used to control the caterpillar population.
Overall, timely identification and management of diseases and pests can help maintain the health and beauty of Pelea clusiifolia Gray var. auriculifolia (Gray) B.C. Stone. Regular inspections of the plant and adherence to good cultural practices can prevent most issues before they become severe.
