Origin and Common Names
Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff is a rare plant species endemic to the Hawaiian island of Moloka'i. It is commonly known as "Maika'i 'Ano Lena" and "Maika'i 'Ano Mahogany".
Uses
Historically, Native Hawaiians have used different parts of the plant for various medicinal purposes, such as a treatment for fever, headache, and high blood pressure. The plant has also been used for its sedative properties and as a topical treatment for skin conditions. In modern times, the plant has been used in the production of natural insecticides.
General Appearance
The Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff plant is a low-growing shrub that can reach up to 1 meter in height. It has a branching structure and thick, woody stems. The leaves are glossy and dark green in color, and they are elliptical in shape with pointed tips. The plant produces small, white or pink flowers that are fragrant, and they are followed by red fruits that contain seeds.
Growth Conditions for Rauvolfia Molokaiensis Sherff var. Parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff
Light: Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff requires a significant amount of light exposure to stimulate growth. These plants thrive best in full sunlight to partial shade. It is essential to ensure that the plant receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Temperature: This plant thrives well in warm climates with a temperature ranging from 20°C to 30°C. The plant may survive in lower temperature ranges occasionally but may not produce the expected growth if the temperature is not within the given range.
Soil Requirements: Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff prefers well-drained soils with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. These plants thrive best in moderate to slightly acidic soils. It is essential to ensure that the soil is rich in organic matter and well-aerated to allow for proper root growth.
Water: The plant requires moderate watering throughout the year. It is essential to ensure that the soil does not dry out completely, but the plant should not be overwatered to prevent root rot. Regular watering is necessary to maintain moisture levels in the soil.
Fertilizer: Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff is a light feeder. Therefore, it does not require a lot of fertilizer. It is recommended to fertilize once per month with a balanced fertilizer or slow-release fertilizer.
Propagation: The most common propagation method of Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff is through seed propagation. However, the plant can also be propagated through stem cuttings and air layering.
Conclusion: Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff requires a significant amount of light exposure, warm temperature, and well-drained soils to stimulate growth. It is also important to keep the plant moderately watered and well-fertilized to ensure healthy growth. Additionally, the plant can be propagated through different methods such as seed propagation, stem cuttings, and air layering.
Cultivation methods for Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff
Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff grows well in partial shade or full sun with well-draining soil. This plant requires a lot of room to develop, so keeping it in a large pot is not recommended. It thrives in warm temperatures and is commonly seen on rocky slopes or ridges.
Watering needs for Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff
Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff requires average watering, but ensure the soil is not overly soggy, as this can cause root rot. During the growing season, the plant should be watered on a weekly basis.
Fertilization for Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff
Fertilize your Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff in the early spring or late winter with a balanced fertilizer, double-checking that the phosphorus level is lower, ideally around 5-10%. Every four to six weeks, apply the fertilizer at half-strength throughout the growing season.
Pruning for Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff
Pruning Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff is not necessary since the plant can reach heights of up to 8 feet. It is advisable to remove any damaged or yellowing leaves and any dead stems. This will encourage the plant to grow healthier and more vigorous, leading to better fruit production.
Propagation of Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff
The Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff can be propagated in two ways: through seeds and stem cuttings.
Propagation through Seeds
The Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff plant produces small, round seeds that are viable for up to one year. The seeds should be collected from mature fruits, thoroughly cleaned, and stored in a cool, dry place until ready for sowing.
Sow the seeds in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring that they are covered with a light layer of soil. Water the seeds and keep the soil moist until they germinate. The seeds can take up to several months to germinate, so be patient.
Once the seedlings have developed their second set of leaves, they can be transplanted into individual pots or outdoors in a well-protected area.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff can also be propagated through stem cuttings. Cut a 4-6 inch section of a new shoot just below a node. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
Insert the stem cutting into a container filled with a well-draining potting mix. Water the soil and cover the container with a plastic bag to maintain humidity. Keep the soil moist and place in a bright, warm location with indirect sunlight.
Rooting should occur within 2-4 weeks. Once roots have developed, the new plant can be transplanted into individual pots or outdoors in a well-protected area.
Disease and Pest Management for Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff
Although Rauvolfia molokaiensis Sherff var. parvifolia O. Deg. & Sherff is relatively disease and pest-resistant, there are still some issues that growers may encounter. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that affect this plant, as well as some tips for managing them effectively:
Diseases
Fungal diseases: Fungal leaf spots can occur on Rauvolfia molokaiensis when humidity levels are high. Affected leaves will develop brown or black spots, and in severe cases, the plant can drop its leaves. To manage fungal diseases, remove and destroy infected leaves immediately, decrease humidity levels, and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Bacterial diseases: Bacterial blight can cause stem and leaf rot in Rauvolfia molokaiensis, leading to wilting, leaf yellowing, and eventually death. To prevent bacterial blight, avoid overhead watering and provide good drainage. If the disease is already present, use a copper-based fungicide to manage it.
Viral diseases: Unfortunately, there are no treatments for viral diseases in plants. To minimize the risk of viral infection, control insect populations and avoid using infected cuttings or seedlings.
Pests
Mites: Spider mites can cause yellowing, stunted growth, and webbing on Rauvolfia molokaiensis, especially during hot, dry periods. To manage mites, spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap and increase humidity around the plant.
Scale insects: Scale insects can cause yellowing, stunted growth, and white spots on the leaves of Rauvolfia molokaiensis. They are difficult to control, but spraying the plant with horticultural oil can help to suffocate the insects.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars like to feed on the leaves of Rauvolfia molokaiensis, leading to holes and distorted growth. Handpick and destroy caterpillars, and encourage natural predators like birds and parasitic wasps to help control the population.
