Overview
Tetramolopium capillare (Gaud.) St. John is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae, also known as the sunflower family. This plant is native to Hawaii, specifically on the islands of Oahu, Molokai, and Maui. It is also found in other parts of the world, including the Pacific region.
Common Names
This plant is commonly known as the hairless tetramolopium or Maui tetramolopium. In Hawaii, it is also called ukiuki.
Description
Tetramolopium capillare is a perennial herb that grows up to 30 centimeters in length. It has small, white, and yellow flowers that bloom from May to November. The plant has several branches that reach its maximum height of up to 1 meter. It has thin and hairless leaves measuring about 1.5 to 7 centimeters long and 1 to 3 millimeters wide. The plant produces tiny achenes, which are unfit for consumption by humans.
Uses
The hairless tetramolopium is not widely used in any fields but it is grown as a ornamental plant in gardens or floral arrangements. It is also used locally for medicinal purposes to treat stomach disorders such as diarrhea and pain. Additionally, its leaves are burned to repel mosquitoes and other insects due to its strong, aromatic scent.
Conclusion
Tetramolopium capillare is a beautiful flowering plant that is endemic to Hawaii. It is recognizable by its hairless stems and leaves, tiny flowers, and small achenes. This plant finds its use in gardens as an ornamental plant and in traditional medicine to treat stomach orders. While it has potential for wider application, its cultivation is limited to the Pacific region and research is still required to fully understand the plant and possible further applications.
Light Requirements
Tetramolopium capillare thrives in bright, indirect sunlight but can also tolerate some shade. An east or west-facing window is an ideal location for the plant, as it receives a good balance of light and shade. In areas with intense sunlight, it's best to provide some protection during the hottest part of the day to prevent damage to the foliage.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures, with an optimal range of 70-80°F (21-27°C). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it's best to keep it away from cold drafts and air conditioning vents. Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 50°F (10°C), as this can cause damage to the plant and stunt its growth.
Soil Requirements
Tetramolopium capillare grows well in well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level (around 6.0). A high-quality potting mix that contains peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite is a good choice. The soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again. It's also important to ensure good drainage, as the plant is susceptible to root rot if left in standing water.
Cultivation
Tetramolopium capillare is a plant species native to Hawaii. It prefers to grow in well-drained soils but can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including volcanic soils. To grow this plant successfully, it is best to start from seed or cuttings in a pot or tray and then transplant it outdoors once it reaches a certain size.
When transplanting, ensure a spacing of at least 18 inches between plants. Tetramolopium capillare prefers full sunlight, but it can tolerate partial shade. It is also recommended to provide shelter from strong winds and heavy rainfall.
Watering Needs
While this plant species is drought-tolerant, it thrives when moisture levels are consistent. During dry spells, it's necessary to irrigate the soil, and when watering, ensure that the water reaches the root zone. On average, Tetramolopium capillare can be watered once a week. However, frequency depends on soil type, temperature, and other factors, so monitor soil moisture and adjust the watering schedule accordingly.
Fertilization
A balanced fertilizer diluted in water can help Tetramolopium capillare grow vigorously. Fertilize the plant every three months to achieve optimal growth and healthy foliage. As with watering, factors like temperature and soil type can affect growth, so monitor the plant's response to the fertilizer and adjust the feeding schedule as necessary.
Pruning
Pruning Tetramolopium capillare serves to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged plant parts. This process will encourage the development of new and healthy growth by redirecting the plant's energy to where it's needed. It is best to prune during the early spring or fall, which is the plant's dormant period.
When pruning, use sterile tools, as cuts on diseased foliage can spread the infection to other plant parts. Always clean your pruners with rubbing alcohol before and after pruning sessions. Instead of cutting the plant to a uniform size, aim to remove any overgrown or unruly areas gradually.
Propagation method of Tetramolopium capillare (Gaud.) St. John
Tetramolopium capillare (Gaud.) St. John, commonly known as the Waianae Range tetramolopium, is a species of flowering plant in the sunflower family (Asteraceae) that is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands.
Propagation of Tetramolopium capillare can be done through seed or vegetative methods.
Propagation through seeds
The seeds of Tetramolopium capillare can be collected from mature plant inflorescences. It is essential to collect seeds after maturation when they turn brown and fall from the plant naturally. Once the seeds are collected, they should be sowed immediately as they lose viability quickly.
The soil composition should be well-draining, and seedlings should be kept moist with proper ventilation. The seeds germinate within a few weeks of sowing. It is critical to keep the soil damp during germination.
Propagation through vegetative methods
Vegetative methods of propagation for Tetramolopium capillare include stem cuttings and division of the plant's root-ball.
Stem cuttings should be taken from mature, healthy plants during the active growing season. Leaves from the lower part of the stem should be removed before planting. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in separate pots filled with well-draining soil. They should be kept moist and should be regularly checked until they establish and develop roots.
Division of the root-ball is another vegetative propagation method for Tetramolopium capillare. This method can be performed when the plant is dormant. The plant root-ball should be carefully divided into sections, with each section containing a part of the root and stem. The divided sections should be replanted in individual pots with well-draining soil. The plants should be kept moist till they start establishing in the new pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Tetramolopium capillare (Gaud.) St. John
Tetramolopium capillare is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to most diseases and pests. However, there are some common issues that can affect the plant, and it is important to take measures to prevent and manage them. Here are some of the most common diseases and pests that can affect Tetramolopium capillare:
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Tetramolopium capillare is root rot. This can be caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil. To prevent this disease, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining and that the plant is not overwatered. If root rot does occur, the affected plant parts should be removed, and the soil should be allowed to dry out before watering again.
Another disease that can affect Tetramolopium capillare is powdery mildew. This is a fungal disease that can be recognized by the appearance of a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems of the plant. To prevent this disease, it is important to water the plants early in the day and avoid getting water on the leaves. If powdery mildew occurs, an organic fungicide or a mixture of milk and water can be used to control the disease.
Pests
There are several pests that can attack Tetramolopium capillare. One of the most common is the spider mite. These tiny pests can be recognized by the fine webbing they produce on the underside of the leaves. To control spider mites, a strong jet of water can be used to knock them off the plant. In severe infestations, an organic insecticide can be used to control the pests.
Another pest that can attack Tetramolopium capillare is the aphid. These small insects can cluster on the plant and cause damage by sucking the sap from the leaves. To control aphids, a strong jet of water can be used to knock them off the plant. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can be introduced to the garden to control the pests.
Overall, Tetramolopium capillare is a relatively easy-to-grow plant that is resistant to most diseases and pests. By following good cultural practices and being vigilant for any signs of problems, it is possible to grow this plant successfully and enjoy its beautiful flowers year after year.
