Origin
Schiedea pubescens Hbd. var. lanaiensis Sherff, also known as the Lanai widowsill, is a rare flowering plant endemic to the Hawaiian island of Lanai. It belongs to the family Caryophyllaceae and is closely related to other species of Schiedea.
Common Names
The Lanai widowsill is also known by other common names such as hairy Schiedea, and pua kea in Hawaiian.
Uses
There are no known traditional uses for the Lanai widowsill. However, it is highly valued for its ecological importance as it plays a crucial role in maintaining the island's delicate ecosystem. The plant provides habitat and food for various wildlife species, including insects, birds, and snails.
General Appearance
The Lanai widowsill is a small, herbaceous plant that grows up to 30 centimeters in height. The leaves are arranged in opposite pairs and are covered with fine hairs. The plant produces white or pink flowers that are about 6 millimeters in diameter. The flowers bloom from July to October and are pollinated by moths. The plant typically grows in open, rocky areas and can be found at elevations ranging from 365 to 628 meters above sea level.
Light Requirements
Schiedea pubescens Hbd. var. lanaiensis Sherff thrives in areas that provide adequate light but are not necessarily exposed to direct sunlight. It is more suited for partial shade or filtered light environments, such as under the canopy of trees. Excessively bright areas can cause damage to the leaves, and intense sunlight for long periods can lead to dehydration.
Temperature Requirements
This plant favors moderate temperatures between 60°F (15.5°C) and 80°F (26.6°C). Temperatures outside of this range can stress the plant, causing it to slow growth or die. Additionally, sudden changes in temperature, such as those caused by drafts, can also harm this species.
Soil Requirements
Schiedea pubescens Hbd. var. lanaiensis Sherff grows well in soil that is well-draining and retains moisture. The ideal soil pH for this plant is slightly acidic or neutral ranging from 5.5 to 7.5. The addition of organic matter to the soil can improve its water-holding capacity and nutrient content. The plant requires proper drainage because it does not tolerate waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot.
Cultivation Methods
The Schiedea pubescens Hbd. var. lanaiensis Sherff thrives well in bright light and well-draining soil. It is important to plant it in an area with sufficient sunlight, preferably in a spot that receives partial sunlight. The soil should be well-draining and slightly acidic. Plant the seedlings at a depth of an inch or less in a hole dug twice the size of the root ball.
Watering Needs
The plant has moderate water needs and can tolerate drought-like conditions. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, as excess water can lead to root rot. It is recommended to water once or twice a week. However, during the growing season, water the plant more frequently, especially in hot and dry weather.
Fertilization
To maintain healthy growth of the plant, fertilize during the growing season, mainly in spring and summer. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium will suffice. Do not fertilize during winter, as the plant goes dormant during this period.
Pruning
Pruning is crucial for the Schiedea pubescens Hbd. var. lanaiensis Sherff plant. It involves removing dead or diseased leaves and stems to keep the plant looking healthy and vibrant. Prune the plant once a year at the start of the growing season, mainly in late winter or early spring. Use clean, sharp pruning tools to avoid transmitting diseases from plant to plant.
Propagation of Schiedea Pubescens Hbd. var. Lanaiensis Sherff
Schiedea pubescens Hbd. var. lanaiensis Sherff, commonly known as Lanai schiedea or Hawaiian schiedea, is a rare plant species native to the Hawaiian island of Lanai. Due to its endangered status, it is essential to propagate this species to increase its population. Schiedea pubescens Hbd. var. Lanaiensis Sherff can be propagated through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is the most common method of propagating Schiedea pubescens Hbd. var. lanaiensis Sherff. The seeds of this species can be collected during the flowering season and stored until the next planting season. To propagate using seeds, it is essential to scarify them before planting to ensure successful germination. Scarification involves the mechanical or chemical weakening of the seed coat to encourage germination.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation is another method of propagating Schiedea pubescens Hbd. var. lanaiensis Sherff. This method involves the cutting of stem or leaf segments and planting them in a rooting medium. The cutting should be around five inches long and include a few leaves. During the rooting process, the cuttings should be kept in a humid environment and planted in well-draining soil once roots appear.
Division Propagation
Division propagation involves dividing the root ball of the plant into several smaller sections and replanting them in different pots. This method is useful for established plants that have outgrown their containers.
Propagation of Schiedea pubescens Hbd. var. lanaiensis Sherff is a crucial step towards conserving this endangered plant species. It is essential to follow the correct propagation techniques to ensure successful reproduction and to increase their population.
Disease Management
Schiedea pubescens Hbd. var. lanaiensis Sherff is a hardy plant known to rarely suffer from diseases. However, some diseases that can affect this plant include powdery mildew, root rot, and black spot.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery substance on the surface of leaves. To manage this disease, the affected plants should be isolated and sprayed with a fungicide containing neem oil or potassium bicarbonate.
Root rot, caused by soil-borne fungi, results in the decay of the plant’s roots causing them to become mushy and discolored. This condition can be managed by improving drainage and reducing watering. For plants that are severely affected, the roots need to be pruned and treated with fungicides.
Black spot is a fungal disease that causes the development of black spots on leaves, which then turn yellow and fall off. The affected leaves should be pruned, and the plant sprayed with a fungicide containing neem oil or copper fungicide.
Pest Management
Schiedea pubescens Hbd. var. lanaiensis Sherff may also be affected by pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. These pests can cause varying degrees of damage, including stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and eventual death of the plant.
Spider mites can be managed through the use of insecticidal soap or neem oil. Mealybugs produce a white, fluffy substance on the leaves of the plant. They can be controlled by wiping them off the leaves with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Aphids can be managed with insecticidal soap or by spraying the plants with a mixture of water and dish soap.
To prevent future pest infestations, it is essential to maintain good plant hygiene. Regular pruning and removal of dead and damaged plant parts can help remove breeding sites for pests. Additionally, it is advisable to inspect new plants before introducing them into the garden to avoid introducing pests.
