Overview
Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. ssp. unifoliata (Rock) Chock. is a flowering plant from the pea family, Fabaceae. Its common names include lo?ulu in Hawaii and M?weke in Tahiti. The plant is endemic to Hawaii and other Pacific Islands. It usually grows in lowland and montane forests, from sea level to 2000 meters.
Appearance
Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. ssp. unifoliata (Rock) Chock. is a small to medium-sized tree that can reach up to 9 meters in height. It has a slender trunk and glossy, drooping leaves that are about 20 cm long and light green when young, turning to a dark green or bronze color as they mature. The plant produces bright yellow, pea-like flowers that are about 1 cm long and are borne in terminal clusters. The plant also bears flat, green seed pods that can reach up to 15 cm in length.
Uses
The plant has several uses in traditional medicine, particularly in Hawaii and Tahiti. The roots and bark of the plant have been used to treat various ailments such as asthma, coughs, and fever, while the leaves have been used to make a poultice for skin rashes and sores. The plant has also been used to produce dye for clothing and cordage.
Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. ssp. unifoliata (Rock) Chock. is considered to be a valuable ornamental plant for landscaping purposes due to its attractive foliage and bright flowers. It is also planted for soil stabilization and erosion control.
Light Requirements
Sophora chrysophylla ssp. unifoliata grows well in full sunlight or partial shade. It can tolerate shade, but growth and overall health may be negatively affected if the plant does not receive sufficient light.
Temperature Requirements
Sophora chrysophylla ssp. unifoliata thrives in temperate climates with moderate temperatures. The plant can withstand cold temperatures, but it may be damaged if the temperature drops below 0 degrees Celsius for extended periods. On the other hand, high temperatures are not a problem for this plant as long as it is not subjected to extremely hot temperatures above 38 degrees Celsius for an extended period of time.
Soil Requirements
Sophora chrysophylla ssp. unifoliata grows well in well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The plant prefers acidic to neutral soils, with a pH range of 5.5 to 7.5. It can tolerate a wide range of soil textures, including sand, loam, and clay, as long as the soil is well-draining. It is also important to note that this plant tolerates drought conditions, but it is necessary to maintain proper watering in periods of prolonged drought for optimal growth and health.
Cultivation Methods
Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. ssp. unifoliata (Rock) Chock, commonly known as 'Mamane,' is a shrub or small tree that is endemic to Hawaii. It grows best in well-drained soils with moderate moisture and a pH range of 5.5-7.5. Mamane requires full sun to part shade and can tolerate drought conditions and moderate salt spray.
Watering Needs
Mamane requires moderate watering during the growing season, especially during periods of drought. It is essential to water the plant thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is saturated with water but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Mamane is adapted to low-nutrient soils and does not require regular fertilization. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer once a year can help improve the plant's growth and health. The best time to fertilize is during the growing season, preferably in late winter or early spring.
Pruning
Mamane requires minimal pruning, but it is essential to trim any dead, diseased, or damaged branches immediately to promote healthy growth and prevent the spread of diseases. Additionally, pruning can help maintain the plant's shape and size. It is best to prune Mamane during the dormant season, preferably in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Propagation of Sophora chrysophylla ssp. unifoliata
Sophora chrysophylla ssp. unifoliata, also known as the Hawaiian necklacepod, is a shrub that is endemic to Hawaii. This plant can be propagated using various methods. Here are some of the common ways to propagate this plant:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest ways to propagate Sophora chrysophylla ssp. unifoliata is through seed propagation. The seeds of this plant can be collected once they are mature. The best time to collect seeds is when the pods have turned brown, meaning they are ready to be harvested.
Once the seeds are collected, they should be cleaned and soaked in water for several hours. After soaking, the seeds can be planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil mix should be kept moist, but not soaking wet. The seeds will germinate in two to four weeks.
Cuttings Propagation
Sophora chrysophylla ssp. unifoliata can also be propagated using cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from the current year's growth, preferably in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about six inches long, and the bottom leaves should be removed.
The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining soil mix. The soil mix should be kept moist, but not soaking wet. The cuttings should root in about two to three months.
Division Propagation
Sophora chrysophylla ssp. unifoliata can also be propagated using division. This method is best used for mature plants that have formed clumps. To propagate using division, the plant should be dug up and the clumps separated into smaller sections.
Each section should have a few stems and a good root system. The sections can be planted in a well-draining soil mix and kept moist. The plant should root within a few weeks.
Disease Management
Sophora chrysophylla ssp. unifoliata is generally known for being resilient to diseases. However, the plant is susceptible to some diseases. The most common diseases affecting Sophora chrysophylla ssp. unifoliata include root rot, powdery mildew, and rust.
To manage root rot, it's essential to ensure that the plant is not overwatered. Proper drainage and avoiding overwatering can help protect the plant from root rot. In case root rot already exists, the infected parts should be removed to prevent the disease from spreading.
To manage powdery mildew and rust, the plant's foliage needs to be kept dry as much as possible. Fungicides and plant oils like neem oil can be applied to the affected plant parts to manage these diseases. In severe cases, infected parts should be removed and destroyed to prevent further spread of the disease.
Pest Management
Sophora chrysophylla ssp. unifoliata is also prone to pest infestations. Some of the common pests that affect the plant include spider mites, bark beetles, and aphids.
Spider mites can cause yellowing and leaf drop in Sophora chrysophylla ssp. unifoliata. To manage spider mites, an insecticide can be applied to the plant's foliage. However, as spider mites can build resistance to insecticides over time, it's essential to use insecticides with different modes of action.
Bark Beetles can result in trunk death in mature plants. Preventive measures like keeping the plant healthy and removing any infested plant parts can help manage the infestation. Insecticides can also be used to manage the infestation if it persists.
Aphids can cause curling or stunted growth on the plant. Water and insecticidal soap can be applied to manage the infestation. In severe cases, an insecticide may be necessary.
