Overview
Pelea puberula St. John, also known as Pua‘ala, is a plant species belonging to the family Rutaceae. It is native to Hawaii and can be found on the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, and Hawaii.
Common Names
The common names for Pelea puberula St. John include Pua‘ala, Molokai-‘Ala‘ala-Wai Nui, and O‘ahu-‘Ala‘ala-Wai Nui.
Appearance
Pelea puberula St. John is a shrub or small tree that can grow up to 15 feet tall. It has opposite, lanceolate to narrowly ovate leaves that are 4-8 cm long and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are greenish-yellow and are 4-petaled, each petal being 3 mm long. The fruit is a capsule that contains up to 4 seeds.
Uses
In traditional Hawaiian medicine, Pelea puberula St. John was used to treat various ailments including cuts, bruises, and rheumatism. The leaves were also used as a poultice for swelling and pain. The fruit capsules were used to flavor fish and as a condiment.
In modern times, Pelea puberula St. John is being studied for its potential medicinal properties. The plant contains various compounds that have shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. Further research is needed to fully understand its potential benefits.
Light Requirements
Pelea puberula St. John requires bright, indirect or partial sunlight to grow properly. It is best to place the plant in an east-facing window where it can receive filtered sunlight for most of the day. However, it can also tolerate low light conditions for short periods, but prolonged exposure can hinder its growth and development.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Pelea puberula St. John is between 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). It is important to avoid temperature extremes, both hot and cold, as it can harm the plant. In winter, it is advisable to keep the plant away from cold drafts and heating sources to maintain its temperature requirements.
Soil Requirements
Pelea puberula St. John requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil mix should be lightweight and porous enough to enable proper air circulation around the roots. The pH level should range between 5.5 to 7.0, which is slightly acidic to neutral. However, the plant can also tolerate slightly alkaline conditions.
Cultivation Methods:
Peperomia puberula St. John is an excellent houseplant and can be grown easily. They prefer bright but indirect light, and the temperature around them should be warm. It is essential to keep them away from direct sunlight since it can burn their delicate leaves. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is moisture-rich but not waterlogged.
Watering Needs:
The watering needs of Peperomia puberula St. John are simple. Overwatering is a common mistake made by plant owners. To ensure the plant's health, soak the soil, and let it dry out for a bit before the next round of watering. It will indicate by drooping when it needs water, and if the leaves also start falling, it is a sign of underwatering. It's essential to water them moderately during the winter months as the soil will take a longer time to dry out.
Fertilization:
Fertilizing Peperomia puberula St. John is crucial to maintain its health and appearance. Fertilize the plant at least once a month during the growing season (spring to summer). You can use any organic liquid fertilizer and dilute it with water as per the instructions. Ensure that you do not over-fertilize the plant, as it can damage the roots and leaves.
Pruning:
Peperomia puberula St. John requires minimal pruning. You can trim the dead leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and promote new growth. Trim the plant's stems to keep the plant compact and bushy, as they tend to grow leggy over time. The plant tends to be a slow grower, and hence, simple pruning practices can help manage its size and promote new growth.
Propagation of Pelea Puberula St. John
Pelea Puberula St. John is a member of the citrus family and is commonly known as 'ala'ala wai nui. Propagation of this plant can be done via different methods that include:
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating Pelea Puberula St. John is by seeds. The seeds can be collected from the fruits and sown immediately. Fresh seeds have a higher germination rate compared to old or dry seeds. The seeds should be cleaned, treated with a fungicide, and sown in a well-draining potting medium. The pots should be placed under a shade with a temperature range of 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Watering should be done sparingly to prevent seed rot. Germination occurs within 2 to 3 months, after which the seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Pelea Puberula St. John can also be done using cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken from the tips of the branches and should be 4 to 6 inches long with 2 to 3 nodes. The bottom leaves are removed, and the cuttings are treated with a rooting hormone before being planted in a well-draining potting medium. The pots should be placed under a shade with high humidity and kept moist. Rooting occurs within 4 to 6 weeks, after which the cuttings can be transplanted into individual pots.
Air Layering
Air layering is another method that can be used for propagating Pelea Puberula St. John. A small branch is chosen, and a section of the bark is removed. A rooting hormone is applied to the exposed wood, and the area is wrapped with moist sphagnum moss and plastic wrap. The moss should be kept moist, and a new root system should grow within 4 to 12 weeks. The rooted section can then be removed from the mother plant and planted in soil.
Propagation of Pelea Puberula St. John can be done using different methods, with each having its own advantages and disadvantages. Gardeners should choose the method that suits their environment, time, and resources.
Disease and Pest Management for Pelea Puberula St. John
Pelea Puberula St. John is known for its resistance to pests and diseases. However, just like any other plant, it is still susceptible to a few common issues. Here are some of the diseases and pests that may affect Pelea Puberula St. John and how to manage them:
Diseases
Cankers: These are fungal diseases that cause the bark to crack and the branches to die back. To manage cankers, prune affected branches and dispose of them properly. Avoid wounding the tree during pruning.
Mildew: This is a fungal disease that causes powdery growth on leaves and stems. To manage mildew, use a fungicide and avoid overhead watering.
Leaf spot: This is a fungal disease that causes circular spots on leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove infected leaves and use a fungicide.
Pests
Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the leaves. To manage aphids, use insecticidal soap or spray the leaves with a strong stream of water.
Scale insects: These are small, oval insects that feed on sap from the leaves. To manage scale insects, use a horticultural oil spray or manually remove them with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Spider mites: These are tiny insects that spin webs on the leaves and suck sap. To manage spider mites, use a miticide or spray the leaves with a strong stream of water.
Overall, the best way to manage diseases and pests in Pelea Puberula St. John is to maintain good cultural practices such as proper watering, fertilization, and pruning. It is also important to identify and promptly treat any issues before they become severe.
