Overview
Pittosporum sulcatum Sherff var. rumicifolium Sherff is a species of evergreen shrub that belongs to the family Pittosporaceae. This plant is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and is native to the island of Kauai.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as Kauai mock orange or Hawaiian yellow wood.
Appearance
The Kauai mock orange can grow up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide. Its leaves are glossy and lance-shaped, with a length of 4 to 6 inches. The flowers of this plant are small and yellow, featuring a pleasant fragrance that resembles orange blossoms. The fruits are small capsules that contain small papery seeds.
Uses
The Kauai mock orange is popularly used as an ornamental plant due to its fragrant flowers and attractive foliage. It is also used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Additionally, the wood of this plant is occasionally used for making small handcrafts.
Light Requirements
Pittosporum sulcatum Sherff var. rumicifolium Sherff grows best in full sun to partial shade. It needs at least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. However, too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves, so it is best to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day in the summer.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm temperatures and is suitable for USDA hardiness zones 9 through 11. It can tolerate moderate frost but will not survive extended periods of freezing weather. The ideal temperature range for Pittosporum sulcatum Sherff var. rumicifolium Sherff is between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Pittosporum sulcatum Sherff var. rumicifolium Sherff is well-draining soil with high organic matter content. It prefers a slightly acidic to neutral soil pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. This plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, from sandy to clay soil, as long as it is well-draining.
Cultivation methods
Pittosporum sulcatum Sherff var. rumicifolium Sherff is an evergreen shrub that is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance. It prefers well-draining soil and a sunny location, but it can also grow in partial shade. The plant can be propagated using seeds or stem cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.
Watering needs
Pittosporum sulcatum Sherff var. rumicifolium Sherff requires regular watering during its first year of growth to establish its root system. Afterward, it can survive through dry periods, but it benefits from occasional watering during prolonged periods of drought. It's essential not to overwater the plant as too much water can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Fertilization
Fertilization should be done once every year in the spring to promote growth and maintain healthy foliage. Use a balanced fertilizer that provides equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Apply fertilizer according to label instructions and avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to damage to the plant.
Pruning
Pittosporum sulcatum Sherff var. rumicifolium Sherff benefits from pruning to maintain its shape, control its size, and remove damaged or diseased branches. Prune in the winter when the plant is dormant and less susceptible to damage. Use clean and sharp pruning shears and cut just above a leaf node or branch junction. Avoid pruning more than one-third of the plant's foliage at any one time.
Propagation of Pittosporum sulcatum Sherff var. rumicifolium Sherff
The Pittosporum sulcatum Sherff var. rumicifolium Sherff can be propagated through the following methods:
Seed propagation
The plant's seeds can be collected during the fruiting season. The collected seeds should be cleaned and sowed in a well-draining potting mix with good moisture retention. The pot should be kept in a warm and partially shaded area. Germination can take anywhere from 2-8 weeks. Once seedlings have developed their first true leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots and given proper care.
Cuttings propagation
Pittosporum sulcatum Sherff var. rumicifolium Sherff can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cut a 15-20 cm length of new growth from the plant, preferably at a node. Remove the lower leaves from the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Place the cutting in a well-draining potting mix with good moisture retention. Keep the pot in a warm and partially shaded area, regularly mist the cutting with water to keep the humidity high, and avoid waterlogging the pot. The cutting should form roots after 4-6 weeks and can be transplanted into individual pots.
Disease Management
Pittosporum sulcatum Sherff var. rumicifolium Sherff is a relatively disease-resistant plant. However, there are several common diseases that may affect the plant:
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease causes small, circular spots to form on the leaves, which may eventually merge and cause the leaf to drop prematurely. To manage this disease, it is recommended to prune off infected leaves and improve air circulation. Fungicides can also be used.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease causes a white, powdery substance to form on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove infected leaves and increase air circulation. Fungicides can also be used.
- Root Rot: This fungal disease can be caused by overwatering and poorly draining soil. To manage this disease, it is recommended to improve soil drainage and reduce watering frequency.
Pest Management
Pittosporum sulcatum Sherff var. rumicifolium Sherff is relatively pest-resistant. However, some common pests that may affect the plant include:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects feed on the leaves, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage this pest, it is recommended to physically remove them by spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests feed on the leaves, causing yellowing and webbing. To manage this pest, it is recommended to increase air circulation and use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Scale Insects: These small, hard-shelled pests feed on the leaves and branches, causing yellowing and stunted growth. To manage this pest, it is recommended to physically remove them by scraping them off or using insecticidal soap.
Regular monitoring of the plant for pests and diseases can help prevent major infestations. It is also important to provide the plant with proper care and maintenance to keep it healthy and resistant to pests and diseases.
