Origin of Pelea elongata (Hbd.) St. John
Pelea elongata, also known as Hawaiian pelea or alani, is a small tree belonging to the family Rutaceae. It is endemic to Hawaii, and can be found on the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, and Maui.
Common Names
Hawaiian pelea is also commonly known as alani in the Hawaiian language. It is also called wiliwili ula on Maui and olopua nui on Kauai.
Uses of Pelea elongata (Hbd.) St. John
The bark of the Hawaiian pelea tree was traditionally used by Hawaiians to make cordage, fish nets, and clothing. The wood was also used for carving and making tools. Today, the plant is mainly used for reforestation and landscaping purposes.
General Appearance
Hawaiian pelea is a small tree that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It has a slender trunk and a rounded canopy of leaves. The leaves are bright green and glossy, and are made up of three to five leaflets. The tree produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that turn into small capsules containing seeds. The bark of the tree is grayish-brown and has a rough texture.
Light Requirements
Pelea elongata is a plant that requires moderate exposure to sunlight. It thrives in areas that receive partial shade, where it can get sufficient light without being exposed to direct sunlight. Too little light can lead to stunted growth, while excessive sunlight exposure can cause the plant's leaves to wither or even die.
Temperature Requirements
Pelea elongata is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures to thrive. Ideally, the plant requires a temperature range of 65-85? (18-29?). Temperatures above or below this range can cause stress to the plant, leading to stunted growth or death in extreme cases.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires well-drained soil with high organic matter content. The soil should be able to retain some moisture but not too much as excessive water can lead to root rot. Pelea elongata is also sensitive to soil pH, preferring slightly acidic to neutral soils. The ideal pH range is between 5.5 and 7.5.
Cultivation methods for Pelea elongata (Hbd.) St. John
Pelea elongata (Hbd.) St. John, also known as the wiliwili tree, is a tropical plant native to Hawaii. It is a small tree or shrub that grows to a height of about 20 feet. This plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun or partial shade for growth. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels, but neutral to slightly acidic soils are preferable.
Propagation of Pelea elongata can be done through seed germination or vegetative propagation through cuttings. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil, and keep them moist until the seedlings emerge. Transplant them to their final location once they are big enough to handle. Cuttings can also be rooted in water or soil.
Watering needs for Pelea elongata (Hbd.) St. John
Watering should be done regularly, especially during the dry season. However, avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering to prevent waterlogging. The wiliwili tree is drought-tolerant, but young plants require constant moisture until they establish themselves.
Fertilization of Pelea elongata (Hbd.) St. John
The wiliwili tree requires moderate fertilization to promote growth and flowering. Use a balanced fertilizer with an NPK ratio of 10-10-10 or 20-20-20, applied every three months. Alternatively, use slow-release fertilizers that can last up to six months. Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive growth and poor plant health.
Pruning Pelea elongata (Hbd.) St. John
Pruning should be done to maintain the desired shape and size of the wiliwili tree. This can be done by removing any dead or damaged branches, as well as any branches that cross or rub against each other. Prune after flowering and before new growth begins. Avoid pruning too much, as this can affect the blooming cycle.
Propagation of Pelea elongata (Hbd.) St. John
Pelea elongata (Hbd.) St. John is a plant species that belongs to the family of Rutaceae. Propagating Pelea elongata can be done through seed propagation or vegetative propagation.
Seed Propagation
Pelea elongata seeds should be collected when the fruits start to dry and turn brown. The seeds must be processed by soaking them in warm water and letting them sit in the sun until the seed coat splits open. This process is known as scarification, and it breaks the seed coat dormancy. Once the seed coat is split, the seeds can be planted in a seedling tray filled with a well-draining soil mix, watered, and placed in a warm, bright area.
The germination of the seeds can take several weeks. Once the seedling has grown its third or fourth true leaves, it can be transplanted into individual pots with a rich soil mix and placed in a shaded area.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation of Pelea elongata is most commonly done through stem cuttings. The cutting must be taken from a healthy and mature plant, and it must be at least 4 inches long. The bottom of the cutting must be dipped in rooting hormone and inserted into a well-draining soil mix. The cutting should be kept moist but not waterlogged and placed in a bright, warm area, protected from direct sunlight.
After four to six weeks, the cutting should have started to root. The cutting can then be transferred into an individual pot with a well-draining soil mix and placed in a shaded area.
Another form of vegetative propagation is layering. This method involves bending a lower branch of the plant towards the soil, wounding it, and then covering the wounded area with soil. The branch will then start to grow roots, and once roots are formed, the branch can be separated from the main plant and transplanted into an individual pot.
Disease and Pest Management for Pelea elongata
Pelea elongata is a beautiful plant that adds beauty and splendor to any garden or landscape. However, just like any other plant, it is susceptible to several diseases and pests. By following some straightforward disease and pest management practices, you can keep your plant healthy and avoid significant losses. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes irregular brown spots on the leaves. The spots may enlarge, become necrotic, and eventually lead to defoliation. To manage this disease, remove the affected leaves, promote good airflow, and avoid overhead watering.
Root rot: This is a bacterial or fungal disease that attacks the roots, causing the plant to wilt and die. To prevent this disease, avoid overwatering the plant and plant it in well-draining soil.
Anthracnose: This is a fungal disease that causes dark spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers. The infected tissues may eventually die, leading to defoliation. To manage this disease, remove the infected parts and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Pests
Aphids: These are small insects that suck sap from the leaves, causing them to curl and turn yellow. To manage these pests, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider mites: These are tiny insects that live on the undersides of leaves, causing stippling and discoloration. To manage these pests, spray the plant with a miticide or neem oil.
Caterpillars: These are larvae of moths and butterflies that feed on the leaves, causing significant damage. To manage these pests, handpick the caterpillars or spray the plant with a pesticide that targets caterpillars.
With proper disease and pest management practices, you can keep your Pelea elongata healthy and beautiful for years to come.
