Origin
Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff, commonly known as Forbes' purple stenogyne, is a plant species native to the Hawaiian Islands. This plant can be found growing naturally in moist, shaded areas at elevations from 400 to 1,000 meters (1,300 to 3,300 feet) on the islands of O?ahu, Maui, and Moloka?i.
Common Names
Forbes' purple stenogyne is commonly known as '?kulikuli, ukiuki, and wiliwili 'ula in the Hawaiian language. The plant also goes by the common name of purple stenogyne in English.
Uses
Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff is not commonly used for medicinal or commercial purposes. However, the plant plays an important role in the Hawaiian ecosystem as a native species that supports the natural biodiversity of the islands.
General Appearance
Forbes' purple stenogyne is a small, bushy shrub that grows up to 80 centimeters (31 inches) tall. The plant has small, oval-shaped leaves that are dark green on top and pale green on the underside. The leaves are approximately 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) long and are arranged in an opposite pattern along the stems.
The flowers of Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff are tubular-shaped and are approximately 1.5 centimeters (0.6 inches) long. The flowers are a deep purple color and are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant blooms from October to January.
Overall, Forbes' purple stenogyne has a delicate and understated appearance that adds to the beauty of the Hawaiian landscape.
Growth Conditions of Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff
Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to Hawaii, specifically the islands of Kauai and Niihau. It is a member of the Lamiaceae family and is commonly referred to as Forbes' stenogyne.
Light
Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff prefers partial shade to full shade. It is commonly found growing in the understory of forests along stream banks or in moist rocky areas. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the plant is not exposed to direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves and damage the plant.
Temperature
Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. It is not frost tolerant and should be grown in areas that do not experience harsh winter conditions. During the winter, it is recommended to protect the plant from cold and wind.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining, moist soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. However, it is important to note that the plant's roots can rot if the soil is too wet. Therefore, it is important not to overwater the plant.
Cultivation Methods for Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff
Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff is a hardy plant that is adaptable to different growing conditions. It prefers well-drained soil with moderate levels of moisture. The plant can be grown both indoors and outdoors.
The optimal temperature for the growth of Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff is between 18 to 22 degrees Celsius. The plant can be grown in direct sunlight or partially shaded areas.
Watering Needs for Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff
Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff requires moderate levels of watering. The plant should be watered when the top layer of the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can damage the plant.
The best time to water Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff is early in the morning or late in the evening. This ensures that the water is absorbed by the plant and not evaporated by the sun.
Fertilization of Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff
Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff benefits from regular fertilization. The plant should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. A fertilizer high in potassium and phosphorus can also be used to enhance blooming.
Avoid fertilizing the plant during the dormant season to prevent overstimulation. Fertilizer should be applied to the soil and not the leaves or flowers of the plant.
Pruning of Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff
Pruning Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff is only necessary to maintain its shape and control growth. Overgrown branches and dead stems should be pruned to promote healthy growth.
Pruning should be done during the dormant season when the plant is not actively growing. Avoid removing more than a third of the plant's foliage during pruning, as this can hinder growth and lead to stress.
Propagation of Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff
Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff, also known as Hawaiian Mock Vervain, is a perennial herb that is endemic to Hawaii. The plant has a woody base with multiple stems and grows up to 3 feet tall. The leaves are green and hairy, and the flowers are tubular and purple.
Propagation of Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff can be achieved through various methods including seed, stem cuttings, and division.
Seed propagation
The most common propagation method for Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff is through seed. The seeds can be collected after the plant has finished flowering and producing seeds. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil and covered lightly with soil. The seeds should be kept moist and warm until they germinate, which can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks.
Stem cutting propagation
Propagation through stem cuttings can be done using both softwood and hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings should be taken in the spring, while hardwood cuttings should be taken in the fall. The cuttings should be around 4 to 6 inches long and should be planted in well-draining soil. The cuttings should be kept moist and placed in a shaded area until they have rooted.
Division propagation
Propagation through division can be done by separating the plant into smaller sections and replanting them. This method is best done when the plant is dormant in the fall or early spring. Each section should have roots attached, and the plant should be replanted in well-draining soil and kept moist until it is established.
Regardless of the propagation method chosen, Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff prefers well-draining soil and partial shade. Once established, the plant can be grown in full sun and requires minimal watering.
Disease Management for Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff
Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff is a resilient plant but is still vulnerable to certain diseases. Some common diseases that might affect the plant are:
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by a fungus that leads to dark spots on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. To manage it, one can remove diseased plant parts and treat the plant with fungicides.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and leads to wilting, yellowing, and death of the plant. To manage it, one can reduce watering and avoid waterlogging the soil. A preventive measure is to use well-draining soils.
- Mildew: This disease is caused by fungal spores that result in powdery white patches on the leaves, stems, and flowers. To manage it, one can remove infected plant parts and keep the plant dry by providing good air circulation.
Pest Management for Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff
Stenogyne purpurea Mann var. forbesii Sherff is also vulnerable to some pests. Some common pests that might affect the plant are:
- Spider mites: These pests result in tiny webs and yellowing spots on the leaves. To manage them, one can use insecticidal soaps or oils or release natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to feed on them.
- Mealybugs: These pests result in a waxy coating on the leaves and stems and lead to stunted growth. To manage them, one can use insecticidal soaps or neem oil or physically remove them with a cotton swab or a blast of water.
- Scale insects: These pests result in yellowing and wilting of the plant, and honeydew excretions on the leaves. To manage them, one can use a horticultural oil spray or scrape them off with a toothbrush or a fingernail.
Regular monitoring and maintenance of the plant through good cultural practices like providing adequate irrigation, fertilization, and pruning can also help in preventing and managing disease and pest infestations.
