Origin
Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff is a plant species native to the Hawaiian Islands. It is specifically found on the island of Lanai, which is part of Maui County.
Common Names
The plant's common names include Lanai Pittosporum, Lanai Mock Orange, and Lanai Kumulae.
Uses
The Lanai Pittosporum has some medicinal properties. The bark and leaves of the plant are used traditionally in Hawai'i as a treatment for stomach aches, headaches, and other ailments. In addition, the plant is commonly used for landscaping and ornamental purposes due to its visually appealing and glossy leaves.
General Appearance
The Lanai Pittosporum is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 20 feet tall. Its branches grow densely and it has a rounded or irregular shape. The tree's leaves are a glossy dark green color, and they are oval-shaped, around 3 inches long, and 1 inch wide. Clusters of small, fragrant white flowers bloom on the tree, which later turn into woody capsules containing seeds.
Light Requirements
Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff thrives in bright, filtered light. It can tolerate full sun, especially in cooler regions, but prefers a shaded or partially-shaded location. This plant does not do well in low light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures, from cool to hot environments. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-7°C) and as high as 90°F (32°C). When the temperature drops below freezing, it is recommended that the plant be protected from frost.
Soil Requirements
Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff grows well in soils that are well-draining and rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils (pH 5.5 to 7.5). This plant is tolerant of a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. However, it is important to avoid waterlogged soils as this can cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff is a tropical plant commonly found in Hawaii. It has a preference for well-draining soils, and it is tolerant of many soil types that are acidic or alkaline, as long as the soil is rich in nutrients. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires warm temperatures to grow.
Watering Needs
Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months when the plant is actively growing. It is important to water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between watering sessions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is crucial for the health and growth of Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff. A slow-release fertilizer is recommended, applied every three to four months during the growing season. The fertilizer should be applied to the soil surrounding the base of the plant but not on the leaves or stem. Over-fertilization can cause the plant to grow too quickly, making it susceptible to disease and pest infestations.
Pruning
Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff can benefit from regular pruning to control its size and shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. The plant can be pruned to maintain a desired height and shape or to remove damaged or diseased branches. It is essential to use clean, sharp pruning tools to ensure a clean cut and prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation methods for Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff
Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff, commonly known as Lanai pittosporum, is a rare and endemic plant species that is found only on the Hawaiian island of Lanai. Propagation of this species is important for conservation, restoration, and horticultural purposes.
Propagation by seeds
Propagation of Lanai pittosporum can be achieved through seeds. Seeds should be collected from mature fruits. The seeds should be cleaned and stored in a cool and dry place until planting. The seeds should be planted in well-draining soil in a container or directly in the ground. Germination can take up to 4-6 weeks. Seedlings can be transplanted to their desired location once they have reached a height of 6-8 inches.
Propagation by stem cuttings
Lanai pittosporum can be propagated through stem cuttings. Select a healthy stem that is at least 4 inches long and has several leaves. Make a clean cut just below the node using a sharp knife or pruning shears. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the pot in a warm, bright location. The cutting should root within 4-6 weeks and can be transplanted once it has developed a strong root system.
Propagation by air layering
Air layering is another method to propagate the Lanai pittosporum. Select a healthy branch and remove the leaves from a section of the stem where you want roots to form. Gently scrape the bark and cover the area with rooting hormone. Wrap the area with moist sphagnum moss and cover it with plastic wrap. Secure the plastic wrap with tape. Roots should form within 2-3 months. Once roots have formed, cut the stem below the roots and plant the rooted section in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the pot in a warm, bright location.
Disease and Pest Management for Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff
Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff is a hardy plant that is usually not plagued by pests and diseases if grown in the right conditions. However, some common issues can affect these plants.
Pests
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can easily chew Pittosporum leaves leaving them with holes. In case of minor damages, plucking the affeced leaves can help manage the pests. However, severe infestation can be managed using commercial pesticides.
Scale insects: Scale insects suck plant sap thus depriving the plant of resources needed for growth and development. Use a soft cloth dipped in a mixture of soap water to wipe the insects off the plant. Commercial pesticides can also be of help as provided on the label instructions.
Diseases
Rust: Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff are susceptible to rust, a fungal disease that can cause leaf spots. The best way to manage rust is to remove and destroy the infected leaves. Fungicides can also be used as recommended on the label instructions.
Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes small spots on leaves that can merge forming larger spots leading to defoliation and stunted growth. Remove and destroy affected leaves immediately you spot the disease. Fungicides can also come in handy in managing leaf spot.
Phytophthora root rot: Phytophthora root rot can lead to the death of the Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff plant. Overwatering is one of the primary causes of Phytophthora root rot. To manage the disease, avoid overwatering, and ensure the soil is well-draining. Fungicides can also help in managing Phytophthora root rot when applied as recommended on the label directions.
In conclusion, understanding the common diseases and pests that affect the Pittosporum terminalioides Planch. ex Gray var. lanaiense Sherff is key to keeping your plant healthy and looking good. Regular maintenance including inspection and applying effective pest and disease management techniques is the key to keeping your plants at their best.
