Overview:
Pelea paludosa St. John, commonly known as the 'swamp-rutted Pelea', is a plant species in the Rutaceae family that is native to Hawaii. The plant is found mostly in wetlands and swamps, but has also been recorded in other moist habitats in the island.
Description:
The plant is a shrub that typically reaches a height of 3 to 4 meters. The leaves are shiny, elliptical, and around 10–20 centimeters in length. The bark on the branches is slightly rough and has a light brown color. The small flowers, which are usually white or pale yellow, grow in clusters at the end of the branches and bloom from April to June. Its fruits are small, brown, and usually spherical in shape with a diameter of 1–1.5 cm.
Common Names:
Aside from the swamp-rutted Pelea, this plant is also known as 'alahe‘e he‘e, k?lea, or w?wae‘iole in Hawaiian. It is also called 'swamp Pelea' in English.
Uses:
Traditional Hawaiian medicinal practitioners used Pelea paludosa as a treatment for various health complaints. For instance, it was used to relieve stomach ailments, treat skin problems, relieve headaches, and soothe sore muscles. The plant's leaves were also used as a natural insect repellent. Nowadays, Pelea paludosa is used mostly for ornamental purposes. Its attractive evergreen foliage, showy flowers, and unique bark make it an ideal landscaping plant.
Light Requirements
Pelea paludosa St. John requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. The plant can tolerate partial shade, but it will not grow well in low light conditions. Excessive direct sunlight can damage the foliage of the plant, so it should be protected from the harsh midday sun.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Pelea paludosa St. John is between 60-80°F (16-27°C). The plant can tolerate temperatures outside of this range. However, it should not be exposed to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) or above 90°F (32°C) for prolonged periods as this can cause damage or death to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Pelea paludosa St. John grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. The plant prefers acidic soil with a pH range between 5.0-6.5. To ensure proper drainage, a layer of coarse sand or perlite can be added to the soil.
Cultivation methods
Pelea paludosa St. John, also known as a marsh satinwood, is a small tree or shrub native to Hawaii and belongs to the citrus family. This plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade. To start cultivation, obtain seeds or cuttings from a reputable source, and plant the seed or cutting in well-draining potting soil. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and position the pot in a partially shaded area. Once the plant has established itself, it can be transplanted to a larger pot or the garden if the climate and soil conditions are suitable.
Watering needs
Pealea paludosa St. John requires a moderate amount of water. The soil should be kept moist but should not remain waterlogged. The frequency of watering will depend on the humidity and temperature of the environment. During the growing season, water the plant once or twice a week, and reduce the frequency during the winter months. When watering, pour water directly onto the soil, avoiding the leaves and the stem.
Fertilization
To ensure healthy growth, Pealea paludosa St. John requires regular fertilization. Use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10, and apply it every two weeks during the growing season. Alternatively, you can use a slow-release fertilizer, which can last up to four months. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper application and dosage. Avoid fertilizing the plant during the winter months when it is dormant.
Pruning
Pruning Pealea paludosa St. John is necessary to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. You can prune the plant at any time of the year, but it is best to do it during the spring or summer months when the plant is actively growing. Use clean and sharp pruning shears to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. To maintain its shape, you can also trim any overgrown branches. Be careful not to over prune, as it can weaken the plant and affect its growth.
Propagation of Pelea paludosa St. John
Pelea paludosa St. John is a shrub which belongs to the Rutaceae family. It is a rare and endangered species that is native to the Hawaiian Islands. Propagation of Pelea paludosa St. John can be done through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Propagation of Pelea paludosa St. John through seeds is possible. The seeds of this plant are small, oval, and brownish-yellow in color. They are dispersed by wind and germinate quickly. To propagate Pelea paludosa St. John through seeds, the seeds should be sown immediately after harvesting or as soon as possible. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. Watering should be done regularly but not too much to prevent waterlogging. Germination usually occurs within 1-2 weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Pelea paludosa St. John through cuttings is also possible. The best time to take cuttings is during the early to mid-summer when the new growth is soft and flexible. Take a cutting that is around 5 inches long with a few leaves. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a potting mix or a well-draining soil mix. Moisten the soil and cover the pot with a plastic bag to create humidity. Place the pot in a shaded area so that the plant does not receive direct sunlight. After a few weeks, roots will develop, and the plant can be transplanted into a larger pot.
Division Propagation
Propagation of Pelea paludosa St. John through division is another method. With this method, the plant is divided into smaller sections, each with roots. Division is best done during the spring when the plant is emerging from dormancy. Carefully dig up the plant and divide it into sections making sure that each section has a good number of roots. Plant each section in well-draining soil in a suitable container.
Propagation of Pelea paludosa St. John can be challenging, but with the right conditions, the plant can thrive and reproduce successfully.
Disease and Pest Management for Pelea paludosa St. John
Pelea paludosa St. John, commonly known as the Hawaiian pelea, is a shrub native to Hawaii. Like any other plant, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can hinder its growth and development. However, there are measures that gardeners can take to prevent and manage these issues.
Common Diseases
One of the diseases that affect Pelea paludosa St. John is leaf spot. This is a fungal disease that causes yellow or brown spots on the leaves. It spreads through splashing water, so it's essential to avoid overhead watering. To manage this disease, infected leaves should be removed and destroyed. Fungicides can also be used to prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease is powdery mildew, which is caused by a fungus. It appears as a white powdery substance on the leaves, and in severe cases, it can cause the shrub to defoliate. Regular maintenance practices such as pruning to increase air circulation, avoiding overhead watering, and removing infected leaves can prevent and manage this disease. Fungicides can also be used to supplement these practices.
Common Pests
One of the pests that affect Pelea paludosa St. John is the spider mite. These tiny pests are often found on the undersides of the leaves. They cause discoloration and ultimately defoliation of the plant. To manage spider mites, gardeners should keep the environment around the plant moist as dry conditions facilitate their development. Washing the leaves frequently and using an insecticidal soap or miticide can also help manage them.
The caterpillar of the Eretria megalonema moth is another pest that can damage Pelea paludosa St. John. Caterpillars feed on the leaves, causing irregular holes in the foliage. They can be managed by hand-picking, using biological control, or using insecticides.
Conclusion
Diseases and pests can be challenging to manage and can cause significant damage to Pelea paludosa St. John. Gardeners should regularly inspect their plants for signs of disease or infestation and take preventative measures. Good gardening practices such as regular maintenance, pruning, and the correct irrigation practices can prevent the development and spread of diseases and pests. In severe cases, fungicides and insecticides can be used to manage these issues when other measures fail.
