Overview
Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff is a plant species widely grown for its decorative foliage. It belongs to the family Pittosporaceae and is native to Hawaii.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as "Pelekunu Sea-side Pittosporum" or simply "Pelekunu Pittosporum".
Appearance
The plant grows up to 15 feet tall and has a bushy and thick appearance. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and oval-shaped. The flowers are small and cream-colored, which develop into seed capsules. The seed capsules are cigar-shaped and grow up to 2 inches long. The bark is rough and cracked.
Uses
Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens, parks, and landscapes for its attractive foliage. It is also used in the floral industry to make wreaths and garlands. The plant's bark has medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments, including coughs and colds, fever, and skin diseases.
Growth conditions for Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff
Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff, also known as Pelekunu pittosporum, is a rare shrub or small tree that is native to the Hawaiian island of Moloka'i. To ensure healthy growth and development of Pelekunu pittosporum, the following growth conditions should be met:
Light requirements
Pelekunu pittosporum prefers bright, indirect light but can also tolerate partial shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it's best to keep them protected from intense sunlight.
Temperature requirements
Pekekunu pittosporum thrives in warm, humid environments and prefers temperatures between 60-85°F (15.5-29.4°C). Extreme fluctuations in temperature or exposure to frost can harm the plant, so it's best to keep them in a protected environment.
Soil requirements
Pelekunu pittosporum prefers well-drained, acidic soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist, yet not waterlogged, as waterlogged soil can cause root rot. Adding peat moss or compost to the soil can help improve its nutrient content and drainage.
Cultivation Method for Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff
Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff is a slow-growing plant that prefers warm temperatures and bright, indirect light. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, but it thrives best in well-draining soil with acidic to slightly alkaline pH. In outdoor settings, it tolerates direct sunlight but requires some shade in hot and humid environments.
When planting, ensure that the root ball is fully submerged and fertilize the soil with organic fertilizer. Mulching around the base with shredded bark or coconut husk helps to conserve moisture and maintain a healthy soil temperature.
Watering Needs for Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff
To keep the plant healthy and lush, it is crucial to maintain consistent moisture in the soil. While it doesn't like waterlogged soil, it also doesn't like to dry out completely. Water Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff deeply once or twice weekly, depending on the prevailing weather conditions.
Still, it is advisable to let the soil dry out slightly between watering sessions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause leaves to wilt, droop, and eventually fall off.
Fertilization of Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff
Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff does not require frequent feedings. Biannual applications of slow-release or controlled-release fertilizer are enough to keep the plant thriving. Spring and summer are the best seasons to fertilize, and you can also mix a nitrogenous organic fertilizer to the topsoil during planting to promote initial growth.
Pruning Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff
Pruning is essential to maintain the plant's desired shape, improve air circulation, and prevent pest infestations and diseases. You can prune Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff after the blooming period, which is usually after winter and early spring. During pruning, it is crucial to sanitize your pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases.
Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches and cut back any overgrown branches to maintain the preferred shape. You can also pinch back new growth to encourage bushier growth or remove unwanted shoots that deplete the plant's energy resources.
Propagation of Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff
Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff is usually propagated through seeds, cuttings or layering.
Propagation by seeds
The seeds of Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff can be collected from the fruits that ripen in the fall. After collecting the seeds, soak them in warm water for a few hours, or scarify the seed coat, to facilitate germination. Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix and keep them moist. The seeds will germinate in about three weeks, and once they have developed their first set of true leaves, they can be transplanted to individual pots.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff can be propagated by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in late summer or early fall. Take a 4- to 6-inch long cutting from the tip of a healthy stem and remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and insert it into a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cutting moist and in a warm, bright location until roots form, usually within four weeks. Once the roots have formed, transplant the cutting to a larger pot or to the ground.
Propagation by layering
Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff can also be propagated by layering. Select a low-growing stem that is flexible enough to bend to the ground. Remove the leaves from the bottom 6 to 8 inches of the stem and make a small cut at the point where the stem will come in contact with the soil. Apply rooting hormone to the cut and bury the cut portion of the stem in the soil, leaving the top portion exposed. The buried portion of the stem will develop roots within a few weeks, at which point the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location.
Disease and Pest Management for Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff
Pittosporum insigne Hbd. var. pelekunuanum Sherff is commonly known as Akaawa in Hawaii. It is an evergreen shrub popularly grown for its dense, glossy foliage, and fragrant flowers. However, like other plants, it is susceptible to diseases and pests that can negatively impact its growth and health. Proper disease and pest management practices are crucial for maintaining healthy and beautiful Akaawa plants.
Common Diseases and their Management
Root Rot: Root rot, caused by a fungal infection, is a common problem in Akaawa plants that grow in poorly-drained soil. Infected plants exhibit yellowing leaves, wilting, and stunted growth. Affected roots become soft and mushy and may have a foul smell.
To manage root rot, it is essential to address the underlying cause, which is poor drainage. One can amend the soil with sand, create a raised bed, or ensure proper water drainage to reduce the risk of fungal growth. A fungicide can also be applied to kill the fungus.
Leaf Spot: Leaf Spot is another fungal disease that affects Akaawa plants. Infected plants exhibit brownish or black spots on the leaves, which enlarge with time, leading to premature leaf drop.
To control leaf spot, the infected leaves should be removed and destroyed to prevent fungal spread. Regular watering and pruning to improve air circulation can also help reduce fungal growth. A fungicide can also be used.
Common Pests and their Management
Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from leaves and stems causing distorted growth and yellowing of leaves. A large population can lead to plant decline and even death.
To manage aphids, one can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Planting flowers such as marigolds, lavender, and chrysanthemums near Akaawa plants can also help repel aphids naturally.
Scale Insects: Scale insects feed on plant sap, and their presence is often indicated by a sticky or sooty substance on the plant surfaces. They cause yellowing of leaves, dieback, and stunted growth.
To manage scale insects, one can use insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or neem oil. Pruning and disposing of infected plant parts can also help reduce the population.
Regular monitoring of Akaawa plants and early detection of diseases and pests can prevent severe infections and minimize the need for extensive treatment. Proper cultural practices such as regular fertilization, watering, and pruning also play a crucial role in maintaining healthy Akaawa plants.
