Origin
Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray, commonly known as ‘ohe or ‘ohe kiko‘olau, is a species of flowering plant in the family Araliaceae. It is endemic to Hawaii and is found on the islands of Kaua‘i, O‘ahu, Moloka‘i, Maui, and Hawai‘i.
Common names
Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray is commonly known as ‘ohe or ‘ohe kiko‘olau in the Hawaiian language. It is also known as Hawaiian ivy tree, p?pale k?‘ao‘ao, ho‘awa, and Java olive.
Uses
The wood of Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray is used for several traditional Hawaiian cultural practices. The wood is used to make hula drums, musical instruments, and weapons like spears and digging sticks. The leaves are used for lei making and the fruit can be eaten, although it is not commonly consumed due to its bitterness.
Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray is also used in landscaping and as an ornamental plant. It is known for its large, glossy leaves and unique, gnarled trunk, which can add a tropical feel to any garden.
General appearance
Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray is a large, evergreen tree that can grow up to 20 meters tall. It has a straight trunk that can be up to 60 cm in diameter and is covered in a gray-brown bark that has a rough texture. The leaves are large and glossy, with a length ranging from 30-60 cm and a width of 20-40 cm. The flowers are small and greenish-white, and the fruit is a small, round, purple-black drupe that is approximately 1 cm in diameter.
Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray is a unique and important plant in Hawaiian culture and is an attractive addition to any garden or landscape design. Its large size and glossy leaves make it a great statement piece, and its cultural significance adds a special touch to any outdoor space.
Light requirements:
Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray require moderate to bright indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves and cause damage. The plant can also adapt to low light conditions, but growth may slow down, and the leaves may become smaller.
Temperature requirements:
These plants thrive in temperatures between 18°C to 27°C (65°F to 80°F). They cannot tolerate extreme temperatures and may suffer damage if left in a location that is too cold or too hot. Keep them away from drafts and air conditioning vents.
Soil requirements:
The plant prefers well-draining soil that contains a good amount of organic matter. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite would be ideal. The soil should be kept moist but not saturated, as overwatering can lead to root rot.
Fertilizer requirements:
Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray requires regular feeding during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the label and dilute it to half strength. Reduce the feeding frequency during the winter months when the plant is resting.
Humidity requirements:
The plant prefers high humidity levels of around 60 to 70 percent. If the air is too dry, consider using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plant. Misting the leaves daily can also help increase humidity levels around the plant.
Cultivation Methods
Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray is a plant that is best suited for cultivation outdoors. It thrives in tropical or temperate areas where the soil is rich and well-draining. It prefers a partially shaded area, and when grown indoors, it should be placed near a sunny window that receives filtered light.
The best way to propagate Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray is through seeds as the plant is not easy to propagate from cuttings. The plant typically grows up to 30 feet tall, so it needs sufficient space to grow. When planting outdoors, space them about 15 to 20 feet apart.
Watering Needs
Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray requires regular watering to ensure that the soil remains moist. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as this can lead to root rot. The plant should be watered deeply once per week or when the soil begins to feel dry to the touch.
When grown in a container, ensure that it has excellent drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. Ensure that the soil is always moist, but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season. The best fertilizer to use is a balanced fertilizer high in nitrogen and potassium. Fertilize the plant monthly during the growing season and reduce the frequency during the dormant period.
Over-fertilizing can cause damage to the plant, so it's important to stick to the recommended guidelines. A slow-release fertilizer can be used to avoid the risk of over-fertilizing.
Pruning
Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray needs regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote healthy growth. Pruning is best done during the dormant period to avoid damage to the plant. Cut back any dead or diseased foliage as soon as possible, as this can affect the health of the plant.
Remove any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other, as this can cause damage. The plant does not require heavy pruning, but periodic light pruning will keep the plant looking neat and attractive.
Propagation of Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray
Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray, commonly known as `ohe`ohe or hulu, is a large tree species native to the Hawaiian Islands. The plant belongs to the family Araliaceae and can grow up to 30 feet tall under the appropriate growing conditions. Propagation of T. hawaiensis can be accomplished by various methods, including seed propagation and vegetative propagation
Seed Propagation
Seed propagation is one of the most common methods of propagating T. hawaiensis. The plant produces small, round fruit that develops in clusters. The fruit contains one or two seeds that can be used for propagation. Seed propagation should be done during the warm season and requires some preparation.
The first step is to collect mature fruit from the parent plant and extract the seeds. The seeds should be cleaned and treated with a fungicide to prevent diseases. Sow the seeds in a light, well-draining potting mix, and keep them moist and warm until germination occurs. Seed germination usually takes between one to two months. Transplant the seedlings to individual containers when they are large enough to handle.
Vegetative Propagation
Vegetative propagation can also be used to propagate T. hawaiensis. This method involves taking cuttings from the parent plant and rooting them. Softwood cuttings taken from the terminal ends of the branches during the warm season are best for rooting. Hardwood cuttings can also be used, but they take longer to root.
The cuttings should be about five inches long and have at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Insert the cutting in a well-draining potting mix and cover it with a plastic bag to retain moisture. Place the container in a warm, bright location, but out of direct sunlight. Transplant the rooted cuttings to individual containers when they are large enough to handle.
Propagation of T. hawaiensis can be a rewarding experience, and it helps to maintain the genetic diversity of the species. Regardless of the propagation method used, proper care and attention should be given to the young plants to ensure their success.
Disease and Pest Management for Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray
Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray, also known as ?ohe in Hawaiian, is an endemic plant to the Hawaiian Islands. Like any other plant species, it is susceptible to various diseases and pests. The following are the most common diseases and pests that affect this plant and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Canker diseases: These are fungal diseases that cause sunken lesions on the branches and trunk. They can cause wilting and dieback of the affected parts. To manage canker diseases, prune the affected parts and destroy them immediately. You can also use fungicides to prevent further spread of the disease.
Leaf spot diseases: These are caused by fungi that cause circular or irregular brown spots on the leaves. They can cause early drop of the leaves leading to reduced photosynthesis. To control leaf spot diseases, prune infected leaves and destroy them immediately. Fungicides can also be used to prevent further spread of the disease.
Root rot: This is a fungal disease that attacks the roots of the plant, leading to yellowing and stunting of the plant. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage by planting the plant in well-draining soil. Avoid overwatering the plant as it can lead to waterlogging and subsequent rotting of the roots.
Pests
Scale insects: These are small insects that attach themselves to the stem and leaves of the plant, sucking the sap from the plant. They appear as bumps on the plant, which can cause yellowing and wilting of the affected parts. To control scale insects, prune the affected parts and wipe the insects with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol.
Aphids: These are small insects that congregate on the undersides of leaves, causing wilted, curled, or yellowed leaves. To prevent aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to control the population of the aphids.
Caterpillars: These are the larvae of moths or butterflies that can eat through the leaves of the plant, leading to reduced photosynthesis. To control caterpillars, pick them off the plant and destroy them. You can also use bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which is a natural bacterial pesticide that works specifically on caterpillars.
By managing the diseases and pests that affect Tetraplasandra hawaiensis Gray, you can ensure the plant stays healthy and thrives in its natural habitat.
