Overview
Pelea peduncularis Levl. var. paloloensis (St. John) B.C. Stone, also known as Palolo `ula`, is a plant endemic to Hawaii. It belongs to the family Rutaceae.
Appearance
The Palolo `ula` is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 6 meters tall. It has a rounded canopy and a single main trunk, and its branches are slender and drooping. The leaves are dark green and glossy, with lanceolate to elliptical-shaped leaflets. The plant produces small, white, fragrant flowers in clusters at the end of the branches, which later turn into small, round, red fruits.
Uses
The Palolo `ula` has significant cultural and medicinal value in Hawaiian tradition. The bark, leaves, and fruit of the plant are used to make herbal remedies for various conditions such as stomach aches, respiratory illnesses, and skin problems. In ancient times, the plant was also used for dyeing and as a mosquito repellent.
Today, the Palolo `ula` is primarily used as an ornamental shrub in landscaping, thanks to its attractive appearance and natural ability to attract birds and insects. It is also cultivated for its fragrant flowers and as a source of food for birds.
However, it is important to note that the plant is protected under the Endangered Species Act due to habitat loss and over-harvesting, which has significantly decreased its population in the wild. It is therefore illegal to harvest or trade in Palolo `ula` in Hawaii without the proper permits and licenses.
Light Requirements
The Pelea peduncularis Levl. var. paloloensis (St. John) B.C. Stone prefers partial shade and bright light for proper growth. Direct sunlight may damage the leaves, and too much shade can slow down the growth process. It is best to place the plant in a spot that receives direct sunlight for a few hours daily and indirect light for the rest of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for the Pelea peduncularis Levl. var. paloloensis (St. John) B.C. Stone is 60°F-85°F (15°C-29°C). The plant can withstand mild temperature fluctuations but may not survive harsh winter temperatures. It is best to avoid exposing the plant to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Soil Requirements
The Pelea peduncularis Levl. var. paloloensis (St. John) B.C. Stone prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5-7.2. The plant can also thrive in neutral soil with a pH of 7.0. It is advisable to mix compost or peat moss to improve soil fertility and water retention.
Cultivation
Pelea peduncularis Levl. var. paloloensis (St. John) B.C. Stone is a shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall. It prefers a sunny location and well-draining soil. The plant can be propagated through seeds, stem cuttings, or root cuttings. When planting, ensure that the root ball is not below the soil surface. The top of the root ball should be even with the soil level.
Watering Needs
This plant requires moderate watering, meaning the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. It is essential to water plants deeply and less frequently to encourage deep root growth. During hot and dry periods, it might be necessary to water the shrub more frequently.
Fertilization
Fertilizing this plant once a year, in the spring, is enough. Use a balanced fertilizer with an N:P:K ratio of 10:10:10 or 14:14:14. Fertilization can help promote growth, but excessive amounts of nitrogen can lead to weak growth and damage to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning helps to maintain the shape and size of the plant. It also provides an opportunity to remove damaged or diseased branches. Pruning can be done in the early spring or late winter before new growth emerges. When pruning, make clean cuts just above a bud to encourage new growth from that point.
Propagation of Pelea peduncularis Levl. var. paloloensis (St. John) B.C. Stone
Pelea peduncularis Levl. var. paloloensis (St. John) B.C. Stone can be propagated by seeds and cuttings.
Propagation by seeds:
The plant produces small, black seeds that can be collected once they are fully developed and have turned dark. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing to increase the germination rate. The best time to sow the seeds is in the spring or summer. Sow the seeds in well-draining soil, either in pots or directly in the ground. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged during the germination period, which may take up to four weeks.
Propagation by cuttings:
P. peduncularis var. paloloensis can also be propagated by stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the stem during the spring or summer months when the plant is actively growing. The cuttings should be about 4-6 inches long with several nodes and leaves. Remove the leaves from the lower part of the stem and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting in a pot or container with well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until roots have formed, which may take up to 8 weeks.
DISEASE MANAGEMENT
Pelea peduncularis Levl. var. paloloensis (St. John) B.C. Stone is generally a healthy plant species, but it is not immune to diseases. Some of the common plant diseases that can affect Pelea peduncularis include:
Fungal diseases
Fungal diseases are among the most common issues that occur in Pelea peduncularis var. paloloensis. Some of the fungal diseases that can affect the plant include powdery mildew, anthracnose, and root rot. These diseases can cause significant damage to the plant's leaves and roots, which can affect its growth and development. To manage these fungal diseases, it is essential to keep the plant's growing environment clean and healthy. Avoid overwatering, provide good air circulation, and remove any infected plant material. Fungicides can be used to manage the disease, but it is essential to use them according to the instructions on the label.
Bacterial diseases
Bacterial diseases are also common in Pelea peduncularis var. paloloensis. These diseases can cause severe damage to the plant, resulting in wilting, stunted growth, and yellowing of the leaves. To control bacterial diseases, it is crucial to practice good plant hygiene, avoid overwatering, and remove any infected plant material. Copper-based fungicides can also be used to manage the disease.
PEST MANAGEMENT
Pelea peduncularis var. paloloensis is generally not affected by many pests. However, some common pests that can affect the plant include:
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects that can cause significant damage to the plant. They feed on the plant sap and can cause wilting, stunted growth, and yellowing of the leaves. To manage mealybugs, it is essential to keep the plant clean and healthy, prune any infected plant material, and use insecticides as necessary.
Scale insects
Scale insects are small, armored insects that attach themselves to the plant and feed on the sap. They can cause wilting, stunted growth, and yellowing of the leaves. To manage scale insects, it is crucial to keep the plant clean and healthy, prune any infected plant material, and use insecticides as necessary.
It is important to monitor Pelea peduncularis var. paloloensis regularly for any signs of disease or pest infestation. A healthy plant is more resistant to diseases and pests, so it is crucial to keep the plant's environment clean and healthy, provide proper nutrition, and avoid overwatering.
