Overview
Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa (Hbd.) Sherff var. megalocarpa Sherff is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Araliaceae. It is a variety of Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa, distinguished by its large fruits. Commonly known as large-fruit Hawaiian tetraplasandra, this plant is endemic to Hawaii, where it is found in the wet forests of Kauai, Maui, and Molokai.Description
Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 20-30 feet tall. The leaves are large, up to 3 feet long and 1.5 feet wide, and are divided into four or five leaflets. The leaflets are oblong and have a glossy green surface. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers that grow in clusters. What distinguishes this variety is its large, round fruits that can reach up to 1.5 inches in diameter. The fruit is initially green but turns black when ripe. It contains a single seed and is often eaten by birds.Uses
Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa is not commonly used for commercial or medicinal purposes. However, the plant is an important food source for birds and insects, helping to maintain the ecological balance. The fruit of the plant is edible but has not been extensively utilized. In Hawaiian culture, Tetraplasandra species are regarded as sacred trees. They are often planted near heiaus, or ancient Hawaiian temples, and are believed to have spiritual significance.General Appearance
Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa is a distinctive tree with its large leaves and conspicuous fruits. It is commonly seen in the wet forests of Hawaii, where it grows alongside other native tree species. The plant has a tropical appearance and is well-adapted to the humid climate of the islands.Light Requirements
Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa has a moderate to high requirement for light to grow well. It prefers bright, indirect light and can tolerate some direct sunlight. However, too much direct sunlight can burn its leaves, and too little light can cause poor growth and foliage.
Temperature Requirements
This plant thrives in warm to hot temperatures typically found in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers daytime temperatures between 70-85°F (21-29°C) and nighttime temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C). It does not tolerate frost or freezing conditions. Keep the plant away from cold drafts and air conditioning vents.
Soil Requirements
Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa does well in well-draining soils that have a pH range of 6.0-7.5. It prefers moist soil but is susceptible to root rot if left in stagnant water. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand is an excellent choice for potting this plant.
Cultivation
The Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa (Hbd.) Sherff var. megalocarpa Sherff is generally easy to grow and it thrives in outdoor conditions, receiving bright indirect light or partial shade. It grows well in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. It is recommended to plant the Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa (Hbd.) Sherff var. megalocarpa Sherff in an environment with moderate humidity levels, ideally between 50% and 70% RH. It should be sheltered from high winds and frost as it does not tolerate cold temperatures well.
Watering Needs
The Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa (Hbd.) Sherff var. megalocarpa Sherff requires consistent watering to keep the soil moist. However, it is important not to overwater as this can cause root rot. It is recommended to water the plant once a week, checking the soil's moisture level before watering to avoid overwatering. The soil should be moist but not wet. During winter, it is advised to reduce the number of times you water the plant as it experiences a dormant period.
Fertilization
The Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa (Hbd.) Sherff var. megalocarpa Sherff responds very well to regular fertilization. We recommend using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and following the instructions for the recommended quantity at each application. Fertilizing the plant once a month during the growing season, spring through summer, is recommended. During its dormant period, you can reduce the frequency of fertilization to once every two months.
Pruning
The Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa (Hbd.) Sherff var. megalocarpa Sherff typically does not require frequent pruning. However, if you notice an overgrown or unshapely appearance, or if some of the leaves are yellowish or brownish, trimming may be necessary. It's best to prune during the spring, allowing new growth to emerge during the summer. It's recommended to use clean and sharp pruning shears to avoid crushing and injuring the plant. Also, wear protective gloves and eye goggles if the sap comes into contact with your skin or eyes, as it can cause irritation. You can remove up to 30% of the plant without causing any stress or damage.
Propagation of Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa
Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa can be propagated through several methods including seeds, stem cuttings, and layering.
Propagation through Seeds
Propagation through seeds is a viable method for Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa, especially for those who want to create a large number of plants. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil mixed with organic fertilizer and kept in a warm, humid environment. These seeds usually germinate within four to six weeks of sowing, and the resulting plants can be transplanted to their permanent location once they have matured.
Propagation through Stem Cuttings
Propagation through stem cuttings involves taking a stem cutting from the parent plant and planting it in a well-draining mix of soil and sand. The cutting should be at least six inches long and should have a few leaves attached to it. The cutting should be planted in the soil at a depth of one to two inches and kept in a warm, humid location. After a few weeks, the cutting will start to develop roots, and once it has fully rooted, it can be transplanted to its permanent location.
Propagation through Layering
Propagation through layering involves bending a stem from the parent plant and pinning it to the ground. The portion of the stem that is in contact with the soil will develop roots, and once it has fully rooted, it can be severed from the parent plant and transplanted to its permanent location. This is an effective method for Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa as it allows for the rapid propagation of new plants.
Disease and Pest Management for Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa
Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa is a species of Hawaiian plant that can be susceptible to a variety of diseases and pests. It is important to maintain a healthy growing environment and to promptly address any signs of disease or infestation in order to ensure the longevity and viability of the plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases affecting Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa is leaf spot, which is caused by various fungal pathogens. Symptoms can include circular lesions on the leaves, which may be yellow or brown in color. Management options for leaf spot include removing infected leaves and debris, avoiding overhead watering, and applying fungicides as recommended by a plant specialist.
Another disease that can affect Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves, stems, and flowers. Management options for powdery mildew include improving air circulation around the plant, reducing humidity, removing infected plant parts, and applying fungicides as recommended.
Common Pests
Several types of pests can attack Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa, including spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects.
Spider mites are small, sap-sucking insects that can cause significant damage to the plant, particularly under drought-like conditions. Management options for spider mites include increasing humidity around the plant, removing severely infested leaves, and applying insecticides as recommended.
Mealybugs are small, white, cottony insects that are commonly found on the undersides of leaves and along stems. They can cause stunted growth, reduced plant vigor, and leaf drop. Management options for mealybugs include removing heavily infested plant parts, introducing natural predators, and applying insecticidal soap as recommended by a plant specialist.
Scale insects are slow-moving insects that appear as small, immobile bumps on stems and leaves. They can cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves and can also transmit viral diseases. Management options for scale insects include removing infected plant parts, applying horticultural oil or insecticide as recommended, and introducing natural predators.
Overall, maintaining a healthy growing environment and actively addressing any signs of disease or pest infestation can help ensure the success of Tetraplasandra gymnocarpa var. megalocarpa and other plants.
