Origin
Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone, also known as Hawaiian pelea, is a native plant of Hawaii. It is commonly found on the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii.
Common Names
In addition to Hawaiian pelea, this plant is also known as Remy's pelea, and in the Hawaiian language, it is called 'ala'ala wai nui.
Uses
Hawaiian pelea is most commonly used for its medicinal properties. It has traditionally been used to treat a variety of ailments, including stomach problems, headaches, and respiratory issues. The plant's bark, leaves, and roots are all used in traditional Hawaiian medicine. Hawaiian pelea is also known to have insecticidal properties and is used to repel insects.
General Appearance
Hawaiian pelea is a small, evergreen tree or shrub that can reach heights of up to 20 feet. Its leaves are glossy and oblong, growing up to 10 centimeters long. The plant's bark is gray and smooth, and its flowers are small and white, growing in clusters. The fruit of the Hawaiian pelea is a small, black, round berry that contains one or two seeds.
Light Requirements
Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone is a tropical plant that requires a significant amount of light. It prefers bright, indirect sunlight and can tolerate partial shade. In low light conditions, the plant may become leggy and lose its shape.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm temperatures and humid environments. The optimal temperature range is between 65-85°F (18-29°C). It is important to keep the plant away from drafts and keep the humidity levels consistent.
Soil Requirements
Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and sand can provide the ideal growing conditions. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.
Cultivation methods for Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone
Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone is native to Hawaii and accustomed to subtropical conditions. It's best grown in a warm, humid environment with plenty of indirect sunlight. The plant can be grown in pots or directly in the ground, but it requires well-draining soil.
When growing Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone in pots, ensure the container has drainage holes and use a soil mix with some perlite for improved drainage. The plant also benefits from good air circulation.
Watering needs for Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone
Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone prefers moist soil, but excessive watering can cause root rot. Wait for the top two inches of soil to dry out before watering and ensure that the soil is not waterlogged.
When watering, use room temperature water and avoid getting water on the leaves. It's best to water in the morning, so the excess moisture can evaporate throughout the day.
Fertilization needs for Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone
Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every two weeks or a slow-release fertilizer every three months. Avoid fertilizing in the winter when growth slows down.
Pruning methods for Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone
Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone can be pruned to maintain its shape and remove any damaged or diseased branches. Prune in the spring or summer after the plant has finished blooming.
When pruning, use sharp and sterilized pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant. Cut the branches just above leaf nodes, and ensure you leave a few buds behind to promote new growth.
Propagation of Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone
Propagation of Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone can be achieved through various methods. The most common methods of propagation include seed propagation and vegetative propagation.
Seed propagation
Seed propagation is relatively easy for Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone. The seeds are small and can be collected from the mature fruit of the plant. The collected seeds can be cleaned, dried, and sown in seedling trays filled with well-draining potting mix. The trays should be kept in a warm, bright, and humid location with regular watering until germination occurs. Once the seedlings have emerged from the soil, they can be transplanted into individual pots filled with a rich, well-draining soil mix.
Vegetative propagation
Vegetative propagation of Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone involves the use of stem cuttings or layering. Stem cuttings should be taken from the plant's mature stems, and the leaves should be removed from the lower one-third of the cutting. The cuttings can be treated with a rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. Alternatively, layering can be done by covering a portion of the stem with soil to encourage the stem to root. The new roots can be severed from the mother plant and transplanted into individual pots when they have developed.
Disease and Pest Management for Pelea Hawaiensis Wawra var. Remyana B.C. Stone
Like any other plant, Pelea hawaiensis Wawra var. remyana B.C. Stone is also susceptible to various diseases and pests, which can affect its growth and productivity. Here are some common diseases and pests that can infect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
1. Anthracnose: This fungal disease can cause leaf spots, stem cankers, and fruit rot, ultimately leading to the death of the plant. To manage it, remove the affected parts and spray fungicides like copper-based compounds.
2. Root Rot: Excessive watering or poorly drained soil can cause root rot, which can hinder the plant's growth. To manage it, improve the soil drainage and avoid overwatering.
3. Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can form a powdery white substance on the leaves, reducing the plant's photosynthetic ability. To manage it, prune the infected plant parts and spray fungicides like neem oil or sulfur.
Pests
1. Spider mites: These tiny insects can suck the plant's sap, resulting in yellowing and dropping of leaves. They thrive in hot and dry conditions. To manage them, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
2. Mealybugs: Mealybugs can cause yellowing of leaves and the formation of a white cotton-like substance on the plant. To manage them, wipe the affected parts with rubbing alcohol or use insecticidal soap.
3. Scale Insects: These insects can stick to the plant's leaves and stems, draining the sap and causing yellowing and wilting. To manage them, apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.
Regular inspection of the plant can help in early detection and management of diseases and pests. Additionally, maintaining the plant's health by providing adequate sunlight, water, and fertilizer can increase its resistance to diseases and pests.
