Overview
Tetramolopium consanguineum (Gray) Hbd. ssp. consanguineum, also known as Na'ena'e in Hawaiian, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a native plant to the Hawaiian Islands, specifically found in the dry and mesic forests of Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and West Maui.
Appearance
The Tetramolopium consanguineum is a perennial herb that grows up to 0.5-2 meters tall. The plant's leaves are light green, and the margins are serrated to toothed. The flowers are small and yellow, and when in full bloom, they form into round-shaped golden clusters. The flower cluster can grow up to 2.5 cm in diameter, and the blooming months are from September to April.
Uses
The plant has been used by the native Hawaiians for medicinal and cultural purposes. The leaves and stems were boiled to create a medicinal tea to treat headache, stomach ailments, and fever. Na'ena'e is also used in various Hawaiian cultural practices, such as lei making. The flowers and leaves of the plant were used to create small, yellow lei that symbolize friendship and love. Nowadays, the plant is grown as an ornamental plant and used in landscaping, both for private and public areas.
Light Requirements
Tetramolopium consanguineum requires full sun to thrive. It cannot tolerate shady areas.
Temperature Requirements
This plant can grow in a wide range of temperatures, but it prefers cooler temperatures. The ideal temperature range for its growth is between 60°F and 75°F (15°C and 24°C), and it can tolerate temperatures as low as 40°F (4°C). The plant will not do well in very hot temperatures above 85°F (29°C).
Soil Requirements
The ideal soil for Tetramolopium consanguineum growth is a well-draining soil that is sandy or loam with a pH range of 6.5 to 7.5. The soil should be rich in nutrients and organic matter to ensure the best growth of the plant. This plant cannot tolerate heavy and poorly-draining soils.
Cultivation Methods for Tetramolopium Consanguineum
Tetramolopium consanguineum is a plant that requires well-drained soil and full sunlight. It is a tough plant that can endure prolonged exposure to the sun and can tolerate dry conditions. It is suitable to be grown in containers, hanging baskets, or in the ground. This plant is best grown in areas with a Mediterranean climate.
Watering Needs for Tetramolopium Consanguineum
Tetramolopium consanguineum is a drought-tolerant plant, but it still needs water to survive and thrive. The plant should be watered once every 10-14 days, especially during the dry season. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is essential not to overwater this plant. Allow the soil to dry out before watering the plant.
Fertilizing Tetramolopium Consanguineum
Tetramolopium consanguineum prefers a well-balanced fertilizer that is high in phosphorus and potassium. The plant requires regular feeding during the growing season, but it is essential not to over-fertilize. Too much fertilizer can damage the plant and affect its health. Apply a slow-release fertilizer to the soil every three months or use a liquid fertilizer every four weeks.
Pruning Tetramolopium Consanguineum
Tetramolopium consanguineum requires minimal pruning. Remove any dead or damaged leaves, stems, or flowers to keep the plant looking tidy and healthy. Pruning can be done throughout the year but should be avoided during the winter months. The plant may become leggy over time, and cutting it back by a third can help promote new growth and give the plant a fuller appearance.
Propagation of Tetramolopium Consanguineum
Tetramolopium Consanguineum, commonly known as the ash-grey tetramolopium, is a species of flowering plant in the aster family, Asteraceae. The plant is native to the Hawaiian Islands, where it grows on dry slopes, cliffs, and ridges.
Propagation Methods
T. consanguineum can be propagated through various methods, including seeds, division, and stem cuttings.
Seeds: The easiest and most common way to propagate T. consanguineum is through seeds. The seeds can be collected from the plant when the flowers have wilted and turned brown. The collected seeds should be stored in a cool, dry place for a few weeks. Once the seeds have gone through a period of dormancy, they can be sown in well-draining soil and kept moist. The seeds normally germinate within 1-2 months.
Division: T. consanguineum can also be propagated through division. This method involves digging up an established plant and dividing it into smaller sections. Each section should contain roots and some stems. The divided sections can be replanted in well-draining soil, kept moist, and placed in a shaded area until new growth appears.
Stem Cuttings: Stem cuttings can also be used to propagate T. consanguineum. Cut a stem from the parent plant, choose one that has at least one node, and make a clean cut just below the node. The cutting should be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist. Place the cutting in a shaded area until it has rooted, and new growth appears.
Regardless of the propagation method, T. consanguineum requires well-draining soil, adequate moisture, and shaded conditions until new growth appears. Once established, the plant is very easy to grow and maintain.
Disease and Pest Management for Tetramolopium consanguineum
Tetramolopium consanguineum is a sturdy plant that can grow in different types of soil, but like any other plant, it can still get affected by several diseases and pests that can cause harm to its growth. Prompt detection and management of diseases and pests can help save the plant and keep it healthy. Here are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect Tetramolopium consanguineum and how to manage them:
Common Diseases
Leaf Spot - This is a fungal disease that affects the leaves of Tetramolopium consanguineum. Yellow or brown spots can be seen on the leaves, and they gradually grow larger as the infection spreads. To manage this disease, cut off the affected leaves and remove them from the garden area. Apply a fungicide to prevent the disease from spreading.
Root Rot - This disease is caused by overwatering and poor soil drainage. It causes the roots to rot, which can lead to the death of the plant. To prevent this disease, ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid over-watering. Use a soil mix that does not retain water and allows for good airflow.
Powdery Mildew - This is a fungal disease that affects the plant's leaves, causing a powdery white coating on the upper surface of the leaves. To manage this disease, use a fungicide to spray the entire plant, including the undersides of the leaves, or use a natural remedy like a solution of baking soda and water or neem oil spray.
Common Pests
Aphids - These are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing the leaves to curl and distort. To manage aphids, use a strong stream of water to wash them off or spray insecticidal soap on the affected areas of the plant.
Spider Mites - These are tiny mites that suck the sap from the leaves, causing discoloration and damage to the plant. To manage spider mites, use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray to cover the plant thoroughly. Also, ensure the plant is well-hydrated to prevent spider mites from thriving in dry environments.
Caterpillars - These are the larvae of some moths and butterflies that eat the plant's leaves, causing visible damage. To manage caterpillars, hand prune and dispose of the affected leaves. You can also use natural insecticides like Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) to deter caterpillars from damaging the plant.
Overall, the key to managing diseases and pests in Tetramolopium consanguineum is to ensure that the plant is healthy, well-watered, and well-nourished. Use natural remedies and insecticides as a last resort, to avoid creating a toxic environment in the garden.
