Overview
Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. var. lanaiensis Chock is a hardy plant species that is native to Hawaii. It is a member of the Fabaceae (bean family) and is commonly known as the Hawaiian necklace pod or iliau. The plant is an evergreen shrub that is well-adapted to the dry, rocky soils of Hawaii and is known for its beautiful yellow flowers and medicinal properties.
Appearance
The Hawaiian necklace pod is an evergreen shrub that grows up to 16 feet tall. It has compound leaves that are made up of several leaflets that are 1 to 2 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and have a slightly waxy texture. The flowers are bright yellow and grow in clusters at the end of the branches. Each flower has five petals that are about an inch long. The plant also produces pods that are 2 to 3 inches long and contain seeds.
Uses
The Hawaiian necklace pod has numerous medicinal uses. The leaves and bark of the plant can be used to treat a variety of ailments including cuts, bruises, skin infections, and stomach problems. The plant is also used as a natural insect repellent. In addition to its medicinal properties, the plant is also used for landscaping and erosion control in Hawaii. Its hardy nature and ability to grow in poor soils make it a popular choice for re-vegetation and restoration projects.
Overall, Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. var. lanaiensis Chock is a valuable plant species that has a unique and important role in Hawaiian culture and ecology.
Light Requirements
Sophora chrysophylla var. lanaiensis requires partial shade to full sun exposure for proper growth and development. It can tolerate some shade, but excessive shade can negatively affect its growth and flowering.
Temperature Requirements
This plant is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of Hawaii, so it prefers warm temperatures. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F, but its optimum temperature range for growth is between 68°F and 86°F.
Soil Requirements
Sophora chrysophylla var. lanaiensis prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It can grow in different soil types, including sandy loams, clay loams, and volcanic soils. The pH level of the soil should be between 5.5 and 7.5.
Cultivation Methods
Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. var. Lanaiensis Chock is a plant that can grow well in areas with good drainage and a temperate climate. Its growth is characterized by vigorous and rapid development when grown in areas with partial shade or full sun.
To cultivate this plant, it is essential to select well-draining soil that is fertile and loamy in texture. The plant requires protection from strong winds and frosts, especially when young. Therefore, planting should be done in areas with protection from potential weather extremes.
Planting should be done after the soil has warmed up in the spring, as chilly soils can cause damage to the roots. Dig the planting hole deep and wide enough to accommodate the root ball, and make sure that the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface.
Watering Needs
The Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. var. Lanaiensis Chock requires moderate watering that maintains soil moisture but not waterlogging. Overwatering can lead to root rot. It has a moderately high tolerance to drought, but it should be watered during the dry season to maintain adequate moisture.
The watering schedule may vary depending on the weather conditions, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Water the base of the plant and avoid wetting the foliage as this can lead to fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. var. Lanaiensis Chock requires adequate nutrients for healthy growth. Incorporate slow-release fertilizers during planting as the plant establishes. During the growing season, apply an organic, all-purpose fertilizer following the manufacturer's instructions.
Avoid overfertilizing, which can lead to excessive growth, weak stems, and reduced blooms or fruits. Follow a regular schedule of feeding - every four to eight weeks - especially during the growing season.
Pruning
Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. var. Lanaiensis Chock requires pruning to remove diseased or damaged branches. Pruning should be done shortly after the blooming season to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth.
The plant can be trimmed in a shape fashionable for the gardener. Light pruning encourages lateral growth, leading to bushy plants while heavy pruning encourages vertical growth for taller trees. When pruning, use sharp and clean tools to avoid injury to the plant. Remove branches that cross over each other or those that appear weak.
Propagation of Sophora chrysophylla var. lanaiensis
Sophora chrysophylla var. lanaiensis, commonly known as the 'Mamane' tree, is a slow-growing, drought-resistant shrub or small tree native to Hawaii. The plant can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
Propagating Sophora chrysophylla var. lanaiensis from seeds is a straightforward process. The best time to collect seeds is in the fall. Clean the seeds by winnowing or washing with water and then air-dry them. Stratify the seeds in the refrigerator for two to three months before planting in a well-drained, fertile soil mix. Keep the soil evenly moist and in partial shade until the seedlings emerge. It may take several months for the seeds to germinate, and the seedlings must be handled with care during transplanting.
Cutting Propagation
Using cuttings is another method to propagate Sophora chrysophylla var. lanaiensis. Take cuttings from hardwood branches in the late fall or early winter. Make the cuttings at least six inches long and remove the leaves from the lower half of the stem. Dip the cut end of the stem in a rooting hormone and plant it in a well-drained soil mix. Place the cutting in partial shade and keep the soil evenly moist. The cutting should root within several months, and it can be transplanted into a larger pot or directly into the ground.
Grafting
Grafting is a third method used to propagate Sophora chrysophylla var. lanaiensis. Grafting is advantageous because it allows the plant to inherit the desirable traits from the parent plant. The best time to graft is in the summer when the plant is actively growing. Choose a rootstock that is compatible with the scion, making a clean straight cut across the rootstock stem. Make a matching cut to the scion and join the two stems together. Secure the graft with grafting tape, and keep the plant in partial shade. It may take several weeks for the graft to take, and the plant should be monitored for any signs of disease or stress.
Disease Management for Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. var. lanaiensis Chock
Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. var. lanaiensis Chock is generally a hardy plant species, but it can be affected by several diseases that can cause damage to the plant, including leaf spot, root rot, powdery mildew, and cankers.
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease that affects the leaves, causing brown or black spots on them. This disease can be managed by ensuring good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Affected leaves should be removed and destroyed.
Root rot is caused by the fungus Armillaria mellea and usually occurs in plants that are overwatered or are growing in poorly-drained soil. The fungus attacks the plant's roots, causing them to rot and turn brown. To manage this disease, it is important to ensure that the plant is not overwatered and to plant it in well-drained soil.
Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and stems, causing a grayish-white powdery coating to appear on them. This disease can be managed by applying fungicide to the affected plant parts. Pruning of infected leaves can also help in the management of this disease.
Cankers are caused by fungi or bacteria that cause localized, sunken lesions on the plant's stems or branches. This disease can be managed by removing and destroying the affected parts of the plant.
Pest Management for Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. var. lanaiensis Chock
Sophora chrysophylla (Salisb.) Seem. var. lanaiensis Chock is generally not a highly problematic plant species when it comes to pest infestations, but it can be affected by some pests, including aphids, scales, and mites.
Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to become distorted and yellow. This pest can be managed by using insecticidal soap or neem oil, which can be sprayed on the affected plant parts to kill off the insects.
Scales are small insects that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of the plant, causing them to become yellow and wilted. This pest can be managed by applying horticultural oil or neem oil to the plant, which can suffocate the scales and prevent them from reproducing.
Mites are microscopic pests that feed on the plant's leaves, causing them to become stippled and discolored. This pest can be managed by using insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill off the mites. If the infestation is severe, pruning off the affected plant parts may be necessary.
