Origin
Tetramolopium calcisabulorum (St. John) St. John is a species of flowering plant that is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It can be specifically found on the island of Kauai on the dry, rocky, and calcareous soils of the Pohakuao-Kumuau Ridge.
Common Names
The common names for Tetramolopium calcisabulorum (St. John) St. John include Kauai tetramolopium and Pohakuao tetramolopium.
Uses
There are no known traditional or medicinal uses for Tetramolopium calcisabulorum (St. John) St. John.
General Appearance
Tetramolopium calcisabulorum (St. John) St. John is a small and low-growing shrub that can reach a height of 30 cm (12 in). Its woody stem is covered in leaf scars and can be branched or unbranched. The leaves are small and thick, measuring about 6 mm (0.24 in) long and 2 mm (0.08 in) wide. The flowers are daisy-like and have yellow, tubular disc florets in the center and 5 to 8 white ray florets on the outer part of the flower head. The fruit is a dry and brown achene that measures about 2 mm (0.08 in) long and has a pappus of white bristles.
Growth Conditions for Tetramolopium calcisabulorum
Tetramolopium calcisabulorum grows in rocky or sandy areas at elevations of 30-70 meters in dry, coastal mesic shrubland and dry shrubland habitats. The plant is mainly found growing on calcareous substrates in the Ko'olau Mountains of O'ahu, Moloka'i, and West Maui, in Hawai'i.
Light Requirements
T. calcisabulorum prefers full sun exposure and cannot tolerate shade. The plant requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight for photosynthesis and overall growth.
Temperature
T. calcisabulorum thrives in a warm environment with a temperature range of 16-27°C. The plant cannot tolerate freezing temperatures, and prolonged exposure to temperatures above 32°C can be detrimental.
Soil Requirements
The species grows best in well-drained calcareous soils that are consistent in pH levels, with a preference for soil pH between 7.2 and 7.5. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil textures, including clay-loam, sandy loam, and rocky soil types. However, the plant cannot tolerate waterlogged soils.
Cultivation
Tetramolopium calcisabulorum grows well in well-draining soil with full sunshine. It can also grow in slightly shaded conditions but may not produce as many flowers.
The plant prefers warmer temperatures and humid climates and can be grown outdoors in USDA hardiness zones 10 and above. For cooler climates, it can also be grown indoors in a greenhouse.
Watering Needs
Tetramolopium calcisabulorum requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The plant should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Avoid overwatering the plant, as this may lead to root rot and other diseases. The use of a well-draining soil mix can help prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization
Tetramolopium calcisabulorum benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flower production.
A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is suitable for this plant. Fertilizer should be applied every two to four weeks, depending on the manufacturer's recommendations.
Pruning
Tetramolopium calcisabulorum benefits from regular pruning to remove dead and damaged branches, promote healthy growth, and produce more flowers.
Pruning should be done in the early spring before the growing season to encourage new growth. Avoid pruning during the summer or fall as it may reduce the plant's flower production.
When pruning, use clean and sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts and prevent infection.
Propagation of Tetramolopium calcisabulorum (St. John) St. John
Tetramolopium calcisabulorum (St. John) St. John, also known as limestone tetramolopium, is a rare perennial plant endemic to Hawaii. Propagation of this plant can be done through seeds, cuttings, and division.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Tetramolopium calcisabulorum can be collected when ripe and sown in a seed tray containing well-draining soil mix. The seeds must be covered with a thin layer of soil and kept moist but not wet. The seed tray must be kept in a warm and bright location, and the seeds will germinate in 2-3 weeks. Once the seedlings are big enough, they can be transplanted to individual pots or directly planted in the ground.
Propagation by Cuttings
Tetramolopium calcisabulorum can also be propagated through stem cuttings. A healthy stem with a few leaves must be cut from the parent plant and dipped in rooting hormone. The cutting must be planted in a pot containing well-draining soil mix and kept moist. The pot must be covered with a plastic bag to maintain humidity and placed in a warm and bright location. The cutting will root in 2-3 weeks, and the plastic bag can be removed once new growth appears.
Propagation by Division
The clumps of Tetramolopium calcisabulorum can be divided during the spring season. The plant must be carefully removed from the pot or ground, and the roots must be gently separated. Each division must have a few roots and a healthy shoot. The divisions must be planted in individual pots or directly in the ground and kept moist until the new growth appears.
Disease and Pest Management for Tetramolopium calcisabulorum (St. John) St. John
Tetramolopium calcisabulorum (St. John) St. John is generally a hardy plant, but it may suffer from certain diseases and pests that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some common diseases and pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot can affect Tetramolopium calcisabulorum. These diseases can be caused by excessive moisture or poor air circulation. To prevent fungal diseases, make sure the soil is well-drained and the plant is not overwatered. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can promote the growth of fungal spores. If the plant is infected with a fungal disease, remove the affected leaves and treat with a fungicide.
Bacterial diseases such as bacterial blight can also affect Tetramolopium calcisabulorum. These diseases can be caused by poor hygiene practices or contaminated soil. To prevent bacterial diseases, make sure to properly sanitize any tools used on the plant and keep the soil free of debris. If the plant is infected with a bacterial disease, remove the affected parts and use a copper-based fungicide to control the spread of the bacteria.
Pests
Tetramolopium calcisabulorum may also be susceptible to pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can damage the plant by feeding on its leaves and stems, causing discoloration and weakening the overall structure of the plant. To prevent pest infestations, inspect the plant regularly and remove any pests you find by hand. You can also use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pest populations.
Caterpillars and slugs may also feed on the leaves of Tetramolopium calcisabulorum. To control caterpillars, use a biological pesticide such as Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) or handpick them off the plant. To control slugs, use a slug bait or set up traps using beer or yeast.
By following these disease and pest management strategies, you can help your Tetramolopium calcisabulorum plant stay healthy and thrive.
