Overview: Pelea Multiflora Rock
Pelea multiflora Rock, also known as "Alamihi" or "Alamilia," is a small tree or shrub that is native to Hawaii. It belongs to the Rutaceae family, which is commonly known as the citrus family.
General Appearance
The Pelea multiflora plant can grow up to 15 feet tall but usually stays smaller at around 6 feet. Its leaves are small and glossy, with an oval or elliptical shape that grows up to 5 cm long. The young shoots and leaves are often reddish-brown in color. The plant produces numerous small white flowers, which grow in clusters of up to 15, and these flowers are highly aromatic.
Common Names
Aside from its scientific name, Pelea multiflora rock is commonly known as "Alamihi" or "Alamilia" in Hawaii.
Uses
The plant has several medicinal uses, including being a natural remedy for coughs, indigestion, and skin ailments such as scabies. It is also used as an analgesic to help alleviate pain and as a sedative to promote relaxation. The plant has antimicrobial properties and has been used to treat bacterial infections, such as skin and respiratory infections. Apart from its medicinal properties, the plant is also known for its sweet fragrance and is used to create perfumes and scents.
Light Requirements
Pelea multiflora Rock generally grows well in partially shaded to fully shaded areas. It prefers areas with filtered sunlight or dappled shade. Excessive exposure to direct sunlight may cause leaf burn and inhibit growth. Therefore, it is advisable to grow the plant under the shade of taller trees or structures.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to the tropical regions of Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands, where the average temperature ranges from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius. Therefore, Pelea multiflora Rock thrives in warm and humid conditions, with a minimum temperature of around 13 to 15 degrees Celsius. It is important to avoid exposing the plant to extreme temperature fluctuations that may cause leaf damage or hinder growth.
Soil Requirements
Pelea multiflora Rock prefers well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soils. It grows well in various soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils, as long as they are rich in nutrients. The soil should have ample organic matter, and the pH level should be within the range of 5.5 to 7.5. It is essential to avoid waterlogged soil as it may cause root rot and eventually kill the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Pelea multiflora Rock, commonly known as Kapa Kapa, is a shrub-like plant that is native to the Philippines. It grows up to six feet tall and has dark green leaves that are shiny and leathery. To cultivate this plant, it is important to plant it in a soil with good drainage. The soil should be slightly acidic and rich in organic matter. The plant prefers a warm and humid environment, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C.
The plant can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. If using seeds, they should be sown in trays and kept at a temperature of 25°C until they germinate. The seedlings can then be transplanted into pots or directly into the ground. Stem cuttings should be taken from a healthy plant and planted directly into the soil. It is important to keep the soil moist until the cuttings have established roots.
Watering Needs
Pelea multiflora Rock prefers to grow in moist but not waterlogged soil. Watering should be done regularly, especially during the growing season. However, care should be taken not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot. It is advisable to allow the topsoil to dry out between watering sessions. During the dry season, the plant should be watered more frequently.
Fertilization
Fertilization is essential to promote the growth and health of Pelea multiflora Rock. The plant should be fertilized every four weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. It is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the fertilizer packaging to avoid over-fertilization, which can damage the plant. Older plants may require a fertilizer with a higher concentration of potassium to promote flowering.
Pruning
Pelea multiflora Rock requires minimal pruning, and this should be done only to maintain the desired shape and size. Pruning should be done after the plant has finished flowering. Any dead or diseased branches should be removed, and the plant can be trimmed to encourage bushier growth. If the plant becomes too leggy, the stems can be cut back to encourage new growth. It is important to use sharp and clean pruning tools to avoid injuring the plant.
Propagation of Pelea multiflora Rock
Pelea multiflora Rock, also known as the many-flowered pelea, is propagated mainly through its seeds. However, it can also be propagated by stem and root cuttings under certain conditions.
Propagation by seeds
The easiest and most common method of propagating Pelea multiflora is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from mature fruits, which are small capsules containing one or two black seeds. Once collected, the mature seeds should be cleaned and soaked in warm water for 24 hours before sowing.
The seeds can then be sown in pots or seed trays filled with a well-draining, sterile potting mix. The seeds should be lightly covered with the potting mix and kept moist but not waterlogged. The pots or trays should be placed in a warm, bright location, with temperatures around 25-30°C. It usually takes 2-4 weeks for the seeds to germinate.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Pelea multiflora can also be propagated by stem cuttings, although it is a bit more challenging. The best time to take stem cuttings is in early spring when the plant is actively growing. In order to propagate by stem cuttings, choose healthy vigorous stems that are free from diseases and pests. The stems should be about 10cm long and have a few leaves.
The base of the cutting should be dipped into rooting hormone powder and planted in a well-draining, sterile potting mix. The pot should be kept humid by covering with a plastic bag or glass jar and placed in a warm, bright location with temperatures around 25-30°C. The roots usually develop in 4-6 weeks.
Propagation by root cuttings
Propagation by root cuttings is also possible for Pelea multiflora but requires special care. This method is only suitable for mature plants that have developed a significant root system. It is recommended to take root cuttings during the dormant season, usually in late autumn or early winter.
The roots should be cut into 10-15cm long pieces and planted in a well-draining, sterile potting mix. The pot should be kept humid by covering with a plastic bag or glass jar and placed in a warm, bright location with temperatures around 25-30°C. The new plants will develop from buds on the roots and usually take 6-8 weeks to root and start growing.
Disease and Pest Management for Pelea multiflora Rock Plant
Pelea multiflora Rock plant is a beautiful & small flowering shrub native to the Philippines. The plant is tolerant of various types of pests and diseases, but it is still essential to keep it healthy and pest-free to promote its growth and development.
Common Pests
The Pelea multiflora Rock plant is susceptible to various types of pests, but the most common ones are spider mites, thrips, and mealybugs. Spider mites can cause leaf discoloration and webbing around the plant, while mealybugs will leave a white, waxy residue on leaves and the stem that can turn into mold. Thrips are small insects that can damage young leaves and flowers, causing them to deform and wither away.
To manage these pests, you can use insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils to control spider mites and mealybugs. For thrips, you can manage them by using sticky traps, reducing humidity around the plant and avoiding over-fertilizing.
Common Diseases
Pelea multiflora Rock plant is susceptible to various types of fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease that causes a white, powdery growth on leaves, while leaf spot can cause yellow or brown spots on leaves. Root rot can cause the plant's roots to rot and die, leading to wilting and yellowing of leaves.
To manage these diseases effectively, you should keep the plant leaves dry by watering it early in the morning and removing any infected leaves as soon as possible. You can also apply a fungicide to the plant to prevent fungal growth.
In conclusion, preventive measures are essential to manage pests and diseases affecting the Pelea multiflora Rock plant. Regular cleaning, proper lighting, watering, and fertilization practices can promote a healthy plant growth, reducing the risks of pest and disease damages.
