Overview
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. nahikuensis Sherff, also known as the Nahiku tetraplasandra, is a species of flowering plant native to the Hawaiian islands. It is a member of the Araliaceae family and is known for its unique appearance and many uses in traditional Hawaiian medicine.
Origin
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis var. nahikuensis is endemic to the islands of Maui and Molokai in Hawaii. Specifically, it is found in the mesic and wet forests of Nahiku on the eastern coast of Maui and in the Halawa Valley on Molokai.
Common Names
In addition to the Nahiku tetraplasandra, this plant also goes by the common names of Mahelela, Nahiku mahele, and Lolo Makua.
Uses
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis var. nahikuensis has a variety of uses in traditional Hawaiian medicine. Various parts of the plant are known to have analgesic, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, the leaves and bark of the Nahiku tetraplasandra are used as a laxative and to treat skin conditions such as sores and boils. The wood of the plant is also used to make traditional Hawaiian weapons and other handicrafts.
General Appearance
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis var. nahikuensis is a small evergreen tree or shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall. Its leaves are large and glossy, with a deep green color and a prominent midrib. The plant produces small greenish-white flowers that occur in clusters. The fruit of the plant is a small, round, and black drupe that contains a single large seed. Overall, the Nahiku tetraplasandra has a unique and striking appearance that is characteristic of Hawaiian flora.
Light Requirements
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. nahikuensis Sherff typically requires full sun exposure to grow optimally. It is important to place the plant in a location that receives direct sunlight for at least six hours per day. However, in areas with intense sunlight, it is advisable to provide some shade during the hottest hours of the day to prevent leaf burn.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to the Hawaiian Islands, where it thrives in warm and humid conditions. Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. nahikuensis Sherff grows well in temperatures ranging between 60 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (16-29 degrees Celsius). During the cooler months, it is essential to protect the plant from frost or cold winds as they can damage the leaves and even kill the plant.
Soil Requirements
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. nahikuensis Sherff prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant grows best in well-drained soils that retain moisture, with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. It is critical to ensure that the soil is always moist but not waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot. Gardeners should amend the soil with compost or other organic materials to improve drainage and provide necessary nutrients.
Cultivation methods
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. nahikuensis Sherff is a tropical plant that requires a moist, warm, and humid environment to grow well. It is mainly grown in outdoor gardens or large pots indoors in areas that can provide such an environment. The plant prefers partial to full shade and grows well in a variety of soils that are well-draining, acidic, and rich in organic matter.
Watering needs
Proper watering is vital for the growth and survival of Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. nahikuensis Sherff. The plant prefers a consistently moist soil, but not overly wet or soggy. Allow the top layer of the soil to dry out before watering and ensure that excess water drains out of the drainage holes. During summer or hot periods, watering should be done more frequently than during colder months.
Fertilization
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. nahikuensis Sherff requires regular fertilization to grow and thrive. Use a balanced organic fertilizer or slow-release granular fertilizer once a month during the growing season. During the winter or dormant season, reduce the frequency of fertilization to once every two months.
Pruning
Pruning is essential to maintaining the shape and size of Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. nahikuensis Sherff. It is best to prune the plant in late winter or early spring before the growing season. Use a pair of clean and sharp pruning shears to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Cut back any overgrown branches to the desired size and shape, but be careful not to remove too much of the plant.
Propagation of Tetraplasandra kavaiensis var. nahikuensis
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis var. nahikuensis can be propagated by a variety of methods including seeds, cuttings and division.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Tetraplasandra kavaiensis var. nahikuensis can be collected when they are mature and plump in autumn. The seeds have fleshy outer coverings, which should be removed before sowing. The seeds can be sown in a well-drained soil mix and kept slightly moist. Germination can take several weeks to months, so patience is required. Once the seedlings have developed roots and are growing well, they can be transplanted into individual pots.
Propagation by Cuttings
Softwood cuttings of Tetraplasandra kavaiensis var. nahikuensis taken in the late spring or early summer can be propagated. Cuttings should be taken from healthy, young stems that have not yet become woody. Dip the cuttings into rooting hormone powder and place them in a well-drained soil mix, keeping them moist and out of the harsh sunlight. When the cuttings have rooted, which can take anywhere from several weeks to a few months, they can be transplanted into individual pots. Hardwood cuttings can also be taken in the late autumn or winter, but it can take longer for these cuttings to root.
Propagation by Division
Dividing the clumps of mature Tetraplasandra kavaiensis var. nahikuensis can be used to propagate the plant. It can be done in the spring by carefully digging up the clump and using a sharp spade to divide the clump into sections, each containing several shoots and roots. The divisions can then be planted into individual pots.
Disease and Pest Management for Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. nahikuensis Sherff
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. nahikuensis Sherff, commonly known as "haiwale," is a native plant of Hawaii that is vulnerable to certain diseases and pests that can damage its growth and overall health. Effective management of diseases and pests is crucial to maintain the aesthetic value of the plant and improve yields. Here are some common diseases and pests that can affect Tetraplasandra kavaiensis and ways to manage them effectively.
Common Diseases and Pests
Fungal Infections: Tetraplasandra kavaiensis is prone to fungal infections, especially during warm and humid weather. Fusarium wilt and root rot are common fungal diseases that affect the plant's roots and stem, causing yellowing of leaves and wilted stems. Downy mildew and powdery mildew can also occur, causing white and powdery spots on leaves and buds.
Scale Insects: These pests are common on Tetraplasandra kavaiensis, especially on the lower surfaces of the leaves. They suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. Heavy infestations can lead to defoliation and reduced vigor.
Spider Mites: These pests are tiny and difficult to detect, but their effects on the plant are significant. They suck plant sap leading to yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and leaf drop. The infested plant appears to have a mottled appearance, especially on the upper surface of the leaves.
Management of Diseases and Pests
Fungal Infections Management: Prevention is the best approach to managing fungal infections. Ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soil and water it consistently but not excessively. Remove infected plants promptly to prevent the spread of the fungus. Proper pruning is essential to improve air circulation and reduce humidity around the plant. Apply a fungicide weekly to control the spread of the fungus.
Scale Insects Management: Use natural predators such as ladybugs or predatory mites to manage small infestations. For large infestations, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the pest. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestations and take prompt action to prevent the spread of the pest.
Spider Mites Management: Regularly spray the plant leaves with water to maintain humidity around the plant and deter spider mites. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control small infestations. For large infestations, use a miticide to control the pest. Prune affected leaves immediately to prevent extensive infestations.
Overall, maintaining the optimal growing conditions for Tetraplasandra kavaiensis is the best way to prevent diseases and pests from affecting the plant. Regular inspection and prompt action can prevent extensive infestations and promote healthy plant growth.
