Origin
Psychotria hawaiiensis (Gray) Fosberg var. hawaiiensis is a small tree or shrub that is native to Hawaii. Specifically, it can be found on the Hawaiian islands of Maui, Molokai, and Oahu in mesic to wet forests from about 300 to 1600 meters in elevation.
Common Names
The common names for Psychotria hawaiiensis include K?wa?u, Kawaau, ?Awa, and ?Awa?awa. These names all come from the Hawaiian language and vary between islands and dialects.
Uses
Traditionally, Psychotria hawaiiensis was used in Hawaiian culture for its medicinal properties. The plant was made into a poultice and applied externally to treat bruises and sprains. The leaves were also used in a medicinal tea to alleviate pain and treat stomach ailments. Today, the plant is mainly used for its ornamental value and is a popular landscaping plant in Hawaii.
General Appearance
Psychotria hawaiiensis is a perennial plant that can grow up to 6 meters tall, but more commonly reaches heights of 2-3 meters. It has dark green, glossy leaves that are 5-20 cm long and 4-14 cm wide. The plant produces small, white flowers that are grouped in clusters and bloom from March to June. The fruit of the plant is a small, red berry that is about 1 cm in diameter and contains two seeds.
Light Requirements
Psychotria hawaiiensis (Gray) Fosberg var. hawaiiensis requires bright, indirect light for optimal growth. It prefers a location with filtered light or partial shade, as too much direct sunlight can lead to leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
This particular species thrives in tropical to sub-tropical climates with warm to hot temperatures. A temperature range of 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C) is ideal for its growth. It is important to note that Psychotria hawaiiensis (Gray) Fosberg var. hawaiiensis is not frost tolerant and cannot survive in temperatures below 50? (10?).
Soil Requirements
The plant has moderate soil requirements and grows well in well-draining soils. A high-quality potting mix, which retains moisture and has a balanced pH level between 5.5 to 6.5, is recommended. Psychotria hawaiiensis (Gray) Fosberg var. hawaiiensis prefers soils that are rich in organic matter and are acidic in nature. It is also crucial to ensure that the soil does not become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot, which can be detrimental to the plant's health.
Cultivation Methods for Psychotria hawaiiensis (Gray) Fosberg var. hawaiiensis
Psychotria hawaiiensis (Gray) Fosberg var. hawaiiensis flourishes best in tropical and subtropical climates. The plant, also known as Hawai?i ?awa, belongs to the coffee family, and it naturally thrives in wet forestlands. As such, the ideal place to grow Psychotria hawaiiensis (Gray) Fosberg var. hawaiiensis is in a warm and humid environment. It is vital to note that the plant must be grown outdoors, as it requires natural light and hydration from the rain to stay healthy.
Watering Needs for Psychotria hawaiiensis (Gray) Fosberg var. hawaiiensis
Overwatering the plant is harmful, and it is expected that the topsoil must dry out a bit before additional watering. The ideal time to water the plant is when the soil, about a few inches below the surface, is dry to the touch. It is critical to ensure that the soil never dries out entirely or becomes waterlogged as this can negatively affect the plant's growth.
Fertilization for Psychotria hawaiiensis (Gray) Fosberg var. hawaiiensis
Fertilizing your Psychotria hawaiiensis (Gray) Fosberg var. hawaiiensis should be a regular maintenance practice, especially if the plant is not grown in nutrient-rich soils. The best type of fertilizer for the plant is a slow-release fertilizer that contains nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorus. Fertilizing should be done monthly, during the growing season, and suspended during the winter to reduce stress on the plant.
Pruning of Psychotria hawaiiensis (Gray) Fosberg var. hawaiiensis
Pruning is essential to maintain a healthy, well-balanced Psychotria hawaiiensis (Gray) Fosberg var. hawaiiensis. Dead or damaged stems and leaves should be removed as soon as possible to prevent the spread of disease. Additionally, pruning can help shape the plant and promote increased bushiness. It is recommended to prune during the dormant season as this gives the plant ample time to recover from the pruning process before the growing season begins.
Propagation of Psychotria hawaiiensis
Psychotria hawaiiensis is a popular ornamental shrub native to Hawaii. The plant can be propagated through several methods but stem cuttings are the most common and reliable.
Stem Cuttings
The ideal time for taking stem cuttings is between late spring to early summer, before the plant starts producing flower buds. Select a healthy stem with a diameter of about 3-4mm and a length of 10-12cm. Remove all the leaves except for the top pair and make a clean cut just below the node with a sharp knife or pruning shears. Dip the lower end of the cutting in rooting hormone powder or gel to stimulate root growth. Then, plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mixture of peat moss and perlite or sand. Water the cutting thoroughly and cover the pot with a clear plastic bag to create a humid environment. Place the pot in a shaded area and mist the cutting regularly to keep it moist. Within 4-6 weeks, the cutting will develop roots and new leaves. When the cutting has developed a strong root system, it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground if the soil is moist and well-drained.
Air Layering
Air layering is another propagation technique that can be used for Psychotria hawaiiensis but it is less common and more complicated than stem cuttings. It involves making a small wound on a healthy stem and packing it with moist sphagnum moss and then covering the moss with plastic to create a mini greenhouse. The stem will produce roots from the wound area and can be cut off and planted once they have grown to about an inch in length.
Division
Division is another method that can be used to propagate Psychotria hawaiiensis but it is less common and not always successful. The plant can be divided into smaller sections during the spring when new growth appears. Each new section should have healthy roots and some foliage attached. The sections can be planted separately in pots or directly in the ground.
In conclusion, propagating Psychotria hawaiiensis can be achieved through stem cuttings, air layering, or division. However, stem cuttings are the most reliable and commonly used method.
Disease Management
P. hawaiiensis is not generally affected by diseases; however, the plant may be vulnerable to fungal and bacterial infections like most other plants. The most common diseases that can affect Psychotria hawaiiensis include:
- Leaf spot: This infection is caused by the Cercospora fungi, which leads to the development of circular or angular-shaped spots on the plant's leaves. To manage this infection, avoid overhead watering, improve air circulation, and remove affected leaves.
- Root rot: This is caused by soil-borne fungi such as Phytophthora and Pythium, which infect the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and decay. To avoid root rot, ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil is well-draining.
- Powdery mildew: This is caused by a fungal infection that appears as white, powdery spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage this infection, remove affected leaves and ensure adequate sunlight and air circulation around the plant.
Pest Management
While P. hawaiiensis is generally resistant to pests, there are a few that can infest the plant. Some of the common pests that can affect P. hawaiiensis include:
- Scale insects: These insects suck sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and eventually die. To manage this infestation, manually remove the insects from the plant or use insecticidal soap.
- Aphids: These pests also suck the sap of the plant, causing wilting and stunted growth. To manage this infestation, use a strong stream of water to dislodge the aphids from the plant or use insecticidal soap.
- Spider mites: These pests are microscopic and can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. To manage this infestation, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Regularly inspecting the plant and maintaining a clean growing environment can help prevent pest and disease infestations. It is also important to avoid over-fertilization and over-watering, as these can lead to the development of conditions that are favorable to pests and diseases.
