Origin and Common Names
Pelea grandifolia (Hbd.) St. John & Hume var. lianoides (Rock) B.C. Stone, also known as `ae or kae in Hawaiian language, originates from the Hawaiian Islands, specifically from the island of Molokai and Maui. It belongs to the family Rutaceae and is a common woody shrub found in the subalpine and montane forests of Hawaii.Uses
Pelea grandifolia has several uses in traditional Hawaiian medicine and culture. Its bark and leaves are used in the production of kapa, a traditional Hawaiian cloth made from the inner bark of certain trees. The plant has also been used as a treatment for various ailments, such as stomach issues, headaches, and rheumatism. Additionally, the plant has ceremonial use, specifically in hula, where its branches are used as a decorative component of the headdress.General Appearance
Pelea grandifolia is a woody shrub that can grow up to 8 meters tall. Its leaves are simple, elongated, and arranged alternately on the stem. They are around 20-40 centimeters in length and have a leathery texture. The plant's bark is smooth and has a reddish-brown hue. Its flowers are small and white, with five petals and numerous stamens. The plant's fruits are small and rounded, measuring around 5 millimeters in diameter, and are green when immature and brown when ripe. Overall, Pelea grandifolia is a beautiful and culturally significant plant in Hawaii.Growth Conditions for Pelea Grandifolia var. Lianoides
Light: Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides prefers bright, indirect light. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight and is best suited to a shaded area with filtered light. For optimal growth, it is recommended to place the plant near a north or east-facing window where it can receive adequate amounts of light.
Temperature: Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides grows best in temperatures ranging from 60-75°F (15-24°C). The plant can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures during the winter months but should be kept away from drafts and extreme temperature changes, which can cause the plant stress and lead to stunted growth.
Soil: Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides prefers well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. It is best to use a mixture of potting soil, perlite, and sand to ensure adequate drainage and aeration. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. It is advisable to fertilize the plant every 2-3 months with a balanced fertilizer to maintain healthy growth.
Humidity: Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides thrives in humid conditions. For optimal growth, it is recommended to keep the plant in a location with a humidity level of 50% or higher. To increase humidity levels around the plant, it is best to mist the leaves regularly or to place the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water, which will create a humid microclimate around the plant.
Water: Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides requires consistent, moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. It is best to water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch. During the winter months, it is advisable to reduce watering to prevent overwatering, which can lead to root rot.
Cultivation
Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides does well in warm, humid climates and prefers a location with partial shade. It can grow well in both acidic and alkaline soils, but it requires good drainage. If planted in a pot, the pot should have proper drainage holes to avoid water-logged soil.
Watering Needs
This plant needs regular watering during its growing season, which is from spring to fall. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. If the topsoil feels dry, it is a sign that it needs watering. During the winter, reduce watering but do not let the soil dry out completely.
Fertilization
It is recommended to fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. The application should be done at least once in two months for potted plants and once in three to four months for plants in the ground. Too much fertilization can lead to excessive growth and reduced flower yield.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to maintain the plant's shape and size. It is best to prune the plant during the late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Dead or damaged branches can be removed at any time during the year. Regular pruning promotes bushier growth and enhances flowering.
Propagation of Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides
The plant Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides, commonly known as the Liana Pelea, can be propagated through cutting, layering, and seed germination.
Cutting
One of the most common methods of propagation for Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides is through stem cuttings. It is best to take cuttings during the growing season when the plant is actively growing. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, disease-free plants and should be 4-6 inches in length. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Place the cutting in a mixture of sand and peat moss and water regularly. Rooting should occur within 4-6 weeks.
Layering
Another method of propagation for Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides is through layering. This method involves burying a portion of the stem of the parent plant in soil and allowing roots to develop. To layer the plant, select a healthy, disease-free stem and wound it by removing a small piece of bark. Bury the wounded portion of the stem in soil, leaving the remaining portion of the stem above ground. Water the soil regularly and new roots will form at the wounded portion of the stem. Once roots have formed, cut the new plant from the parent plant and transplant.
Seed Germination
Your final option for propagating Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides is through seed germination. Collect the seeds when they are mature, usually in the fall. Clean the seeds and soak them overnight in water. Sow the seeds in containers filled with a mixture of sand and peat moss. Keep the soil moist and warm, ideally between 70-80°F. Germination should occur in 4-6 weeks if the seeds are viable.
Disease Management
Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides is a relatively disease-resistant plant species, but it can still fall prey to some common diseases. One of the most critical diseases that can affect this plant is root rot. Root rot is a fungal disease that affects the roots of plants and progresses to rot the entire plant. Overwatering or poorly-drained soil can cause root rot, so it's essential to have well-drained soil. If you suspect your plant has root rot, uproot the plant and check the roots. If the roots are brown and mushy, discard the plant, disinfect the pot, and repot the plant in fresh soil.
Another common disease that can affect Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides is powdery mildew. Powdery mildew is a fungal infection that causes white, powdery spots on leaves and stems. It thrives in crowded and damp conditions, so it's crucial to allow adequate spacing between plants and provide adequate ventilation. A simple remedy for powdery mildew is to spray the plant with neem oil or a mixture of water and baking soda.
Pest Management
Pests are another problem that can affect Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides. Scale insects are common pests that feed on this plant's sap, and they can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. You can remove scale insects by wiping the leaves with a soft, damp cloth or spraying the plant with neem oil.
Mealybugs are another common pest that can affect Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides. They appear as white, cottony masses on leaves and stems and can cause leaf drop and plant death. You can control mealybugs by removing them with a soft, damp cloth or spraying the plant with neem oil.
Spider mites are also a common problem that can affect Pelea grandifolia var. lianoides. They are tiny insects that hide on the underside of leaves and spin webs. Spider mite infestations can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. You can control spider mites by periodically washing the plant with a strong jet of water, or you can spray the plant with neem oil.
