Origin
Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff is a rare and endemic plant species found only in Hawaii, specifically on the island of Molokai. It is part of the flowering plant family Rhamnaceae and was first described by Sherff in 1933.
Common Names
This plant species is commonly known as Moloka'i reynoldsia or simply Reynoldsia. In the Hawaiian language, it is also called 'Hinahina' or 'Moloka'i hinahina'.
Uses
Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff has not been extensively studied for its potential uses, but the closely related species Reynoldsia sandwicensis has been used for medicinal purposes in traditional Hawaiian medicine. The leaves were boiled and used as a poultice for various ailments, including headaches and skin irritations.
General Appearance
Moloka'i reynoldsia is a shrub or small tree that can reach up to 20 feet in height. It has shiny, leathery leaves that are light green in color and covered in fine hairs. The leaves are arranged in a spiral pattern and grow up to 5 inches long and 2 inches wide. The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-yellow in color. The fruit is a small, fleshy berry that contains one or two seeds. The bark of Moloka'i reynoldsia is grayish-brown and smooth.
Light Requirements
The Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff requires full sun to partial shade to thrive and grow. When grown indoors, it is preferable to place it near a sunny window for bright light exposure. Outdoor plants do best in areas where they can receive some shade during the hottest part of the day.
Temperature Requirements
The plant requires a warm climate to grow healthy and robust. It is native to Hawaii, where it grows in warm temperatures. The optimal temperature range for growing Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff is between 60°F to 85°F. It is essential to provide protection if the temperature drops below 50°F as it can damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of potting soil and perlite or sand can make for an ideal growing medium for container-grown plants. In its natural habitat, the plant thrives in volcanic and rocky soils that are rich in nutrients, and it can endure periods of drought once well-established. When planting, ensure that the soil is well-drained to prevent waterlogging, which can damage the roots and cause root rot.
Cultivation
Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff can be cultivated in a variety of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils. It grows well in areas with good drainage and is particularly well-suited to dry climates. The plant requires plenty of sunlight, so it is recommended to plant it in a spot that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.
Watering Needs
Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff requires regular watering, but it is important not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Typically, the plant should be watered once or twice a week, depending on the climate and soil type. It is recommended to wait until the top inch of soil is dry before watering again.
Fertilization
Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff benefits from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium can be applied once a month during the growing season. However, it is important not to over-fertilize as this can lead to excessive growth and a reduction in blooming.
Pruning
Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff does not require heavy pruning, but occasional pruning can help to maintain its shape and promote blooming. Pruning can be done after blooming has finished, and any dead or damaged branches should be removed. Additionally, pruning can be used to control the size of the plant and promote branching. Pruning cuts should be made just above the node or bud, and cutting too far back can reduce blooming in the following season.
Propagation of Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff
Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff is a tree endemic to Hawaii. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and can grow up to 10 meters in height. The tree develops white flowers and edible fruits that are consumed by birds and insects. Propagation of this plant can be done through several methods, including:
Seed propagation
The most common method for propagating Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff is through seeds. Seeds are collected from mature fruits that have fallen to the ground. The seeds are then cleaned, dried, and stratified to promote germination. Stratification involves chilling the seeds in the refrigerator for several months to break seed dormancy. Once stratified, the seeds are sown in a well-draining fertile soil mixture, kept moist and warm, and germinated in a greenhouse or under shade cloth. Seedlings are transplanted once they develop several sets of leaves and are able to tolerate full sun exposure.
Cuttings propagation
Another method for propagating Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff is through hardwood or semi-hardwood cuttings. The cuttings are obtained from healthy mature branches and are approximately 10 to 15 cm in length. Before planting, the leaves on each cutting are trimmed to reduce water loss and to stimulate root formation. The cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mixture in a greenhouse or under shade cloth. The cuttings are kept moist and warm, and after several weeks they begin to root. Once the cuttings have established roots, they are transplanted to a permanent location.
Layering propagation
The layering method is another way to propagate Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff. This method involves bending a low-hanging branch to the ground and making a small incision on the branch's underside. The incision is then covered with soil, and the branch is held in place with a wire or a stake. The branch will eventually develop roots at the incision site. Once the roots have formed, the branch is severed from the mother tree and transplanted to a permanent location.
Disease and Pest Management for Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff
Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff, commonly known as Moloka?i tree heliotrope, is a native Hawaiian plant species that may be affected by several diseases and pests. Here are some of the most common problems and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Leaf spot and blight: These diseases cause black or brown spots of dead tissue on leaves, and can cause defoliation in severe cases. To control leaf spots and blight, remove and destroy infected leaves, avoid watering foliage late in the day, avoid planting in poorly drained areas, and promote good cultural practices (fertilization and pruning) to keep the plant healthy.
Downy mildew: This fungal disease appears as yellow spots on the upper surface of leaves and grayish-white, cottony growth underneath. It can cause leaf drop, stunted growth, and death of the plant. To manage downy mildew, improve air circulation around the plant, reduce humidity, and use fungicides if necessary.
Phytophthora root rot: This soil-borne disease causes wilting, yellowing of leaves, and root rot. To prevent Phytophthora root rot, plant Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff in well-drained soil, avoid overwatering, and apply fungicides if needed.
Pests
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can defoliate the plant and stunt its growth. To control caterpillars, pick them off by hand, use biological control methods (e.g., predatory wasps), or apply insecticides when necessary.
Spider mites: These tiny insects can cause leaf yellowing and distortion, and produce webbing on the plant. To manage spider mites, remove and destroy infested leaves, increase humidity around the plant, and apply miticides if necessary.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs are white, cottony insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth, leaf drop, and yellowing. To control mealybugs, remove them by hand, apply insecticidal soap or oil, or use natural predators such as ladybugs.
By taking appropriate measures to manage diseases and pests, you can help your Reynoldsia sandwicensis Gray var. molokaiensis Sherff stay healthy and thrive. Regular inspection and intervention will go a long way in keeping your plant healthy and flourishing.
