Origin and Common Names
Pelea pickeringii St. John, also known as the Pickering's pelea, is a flowering plant in the Rutaceae family. It is native to Hawaii and can commonly be found growing on the islands of Maui, Moloka‘i, and O‘ahu.General Appearance
This plant grows as a shrub or small tree, reaching an average height of 10-15 feet. It has a slender stem with long, thin branches that can spread outwards as much as 10 feet. The leaves are glossy, green, and elliptical, measuring approximately 2-4 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The flowers are small and white, appearing in clusters at the tips of the branches. Pelea pickeringii St. John blooms from April to August and produces small, dry fruits that are approximately 1/4 inch in diameter.Uses
Traditionally, Pelea pickeringii St. John has been used for medicinal purposes in Hawaii. Its leaves and bark were boiled and consumed to treat symptoms such as coughs, colds, and flu. The bark was also used to make a yellow dye for clothing. Additionally, the plant is often used for decorative purposes in landscaping due to its attractive appearance and ability to thrive in a wide range of conditions. Overall, Pelea pickeringii St. John is an important plant species in Hawaii, with both medicinal and ornamental uses. Its unique appearance and adaptability to different environments make it a valuable addition to tropical gardens and natural landscapes.Growth Conditions for Pelea pickeringii St. John
Pealea pickeringii St. John plant is a small tree that is native to Hawaii Island. The plant is endangered and grows best under certain conditions.
Light Requirements
This plant thrives in full sun to partial shade, but it can also grow in full shade. However, when grown in full shade, it will have a spindly form. Thus, it is important to ensure that it receives enough light for optimal growth.
Soil Requirements
The plant does well in well-draining, moist soils with pH ranging from neutral to acidic. The soil should also be rich in organic matter, which helps to retain moisture and increase soil fertility.
Temperature Requirements
Pealea pickeringii St. John requires warm temperatures to thrive. It grows best in areas with a temperature range of 70°F to 80°F (21°C to 27°C). It will not survive in areas with frost, and chilly temperatures may hinder its growth.
Watering Requirements
Pealea pickeringii St. John is a moisture-loving plant and requires regular watering for optimal growth. Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged, as too much water can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilizer Requirements
The plant benefits from occasional fertilization with a balanced fertilizer to help it thrive. Use only organic fertilizers, as chemical fertilizers can burn the roots.
Pest and Disease Control
This plant is vulnerable to pests and diseases such as mealybugs, scales, and root rot. Keep an eye on the plant for any signs of pest infestation, and treat immediately. Use organic insecticides and fungicides to control pests and diseases.
Cultivation
Pelea pickeringii St. John, commonly known as Pickering's N?n??, is a slow-growing shrub that requires a warm climate for proper growth. It is recommended to cultivate this plant in areas with a warm temperate climate with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 70°F. The shrub can be grown in both indoor and outdoor environments.
It is necessary to plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. The soil should have a pH level ranging from 6.0 to 7.5. Ensure that the plant is positioned in an area that is protected from strong winds.
Watering Needs
Pelea pickeringii St. John requires moderate watering. It is necessary to water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged, as this can cause root rot. As the plant matures, it requires less water to prevent wilting.
It is also essential to avoid using hard water, as it can lead to mineral buildup in the soil. Rainwater or distilled water is recommended.
Fertilization
The Pickering's N?n?? plant requires fertilization during the active growing season. It is recommended to use a balanced fertilizer, which contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Fertilize the plant at least once every three months and ensure that the fertilizer is well-distributed around the base of the plant. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to salt buildup in the soil.
Pruning
Pelea pickeringii St. John requires minimal pruning as it grows slow. However, pruning is necessary to maintain its overall shape and remove dead or diseased branches. Prune the plant during the early spring or late winter before the active growing season to prevent damage to the plant.
Cut back branches to a bud or side shoot, making the cut at a 45-degree angle. Ensure that the pruning shears are sharp to prevent damaging the plant. Dispose of the pruned materials appropriately.
Propagation of Pelea pickeringii St. John
Propagating Pelea pickeringii St. John can be done through both sexual and asexual methods. Here are the propagation methods:
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Pelea pickeringii St. John can be extracted from the fruit and sowed in a well-draining potting mix. The seeds require bright, indirect light and warm temperatures (22-26°C) to germinate, which can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted to larger containers or directly into the ground.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Another way to propagate Pelea pickeringii St. John is through cuttings. Using a clean, sharp pair of scissors or pruning shears, take a cutting from a healthy, mature stem. The cutting should be around 4-6 inches long and taken from the tip of the stem. Remove the bottom leaves and dip the stem in rooting hormone. Plant the stem in a well-draining potting mix and cover with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place the cutting in a bright, but indirect light, and keep the soil moist until roots begin to form.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is an asexual propagation method that involves inducing roots to grow on a stem while it is still attached to the mother plant. Choose a healthy and mature stem, make a small wound on the stem where you intend the roots to grow, then cover the wound with a ball of moisture-retaining material such as sphagnum moss. Wrap the sphagnum moss in plastic wrap to keep it moist. Eventually, small roots will sprout from the wound. Cut the stem beneath the rooted portion and plant it in a well-draining potting mix to root in a new plant.
Disease Management for Pelea pickeringii St. John
Pealea pickeringii St. John is a rare plant species that is highly susceptible to diseases, especially during unfavorable weather conditions like high humidity, extreme temperatures, and rainfall. However, early detection and appropriate management practices can help control and prevent the spread of diseases in this plant species.
Common diseases that affect Pealea pickeringii St. John include brown spots, leaf blight, root rot, and fungal infections. These diseases can cause severe damage to the plant and reduce its aesthetic and economic values.
The following are some disease management practices recommended for Pealea pickeringii St. John:
- Regular weeding to remove weed plants that can harbor pests and diseases
- Mulching with organic matter to reduce weed growth and conserve moisture
- Pruning affected plant parts, especially leaves and branches showing disease symptoms
- Use of fungicides and bactericides to control and prevent the spread of fungal and bacterial infections
- Following hygiene practices such as sterilizing pruning tools and equipment between plants to prevent cross-contamination
- Proper site selection and soil management to prevent waterlogging and improve drainage
Pest Management for Pealea pickeringii St. John
Pealea pickeringii St. John is also vulnerable to pest attacks, which can cause severe damage to the plant and reduce its yield potential and aesthetic value. Common pests that affect this plant species include spider mites, whiteflies, and mealybugs. These pests suck sap from the plant, causing wilting, leaf drop, and stunted growth.
The following are some pest management practices recommended for Pealea pickeringii St. John:
- Regular scouting to detect pest infestations early
- Use of physical control methods like handpicking to remove and destroy affected plant parts and pests
- Biological control methods like the use of beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to prey on the pests
- Use of pesticides, including insecticides and acaricides, to control and prevent the spread of pests
- Proper sanitation practices like removing debris and fallen leaves around the plant to reduce pest habitats and breeding grounds
- Cultivation of resistant varieties to minimize pest attacks
