Origin
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. occidua O. Deg. & Sherff, commonly known as Kava, is a rare plant species that is endemic to the Kaua'i Island of Hawaii. It is one of the only remaining native species in the wet forests of the island.
Common Names
Kava is also known by other common names such as Hawaiian Hangehange and Love Tree.
Uses
Kava has held significant cultural and medicinal importance for centuries in Hawaiian and Polynesian cultures. The roots of the plant are traditionally consumed as a beverage to induce relaxation and reduce stress. It is also used to ease symptoms of anxiety and depression. In addition to its medicinal uses, Kava wood is used for carving and making decorative items such as bowls and platters.
Appearance
Kava grows as a shrub or tree that can reach up to 10 meters in height in wet forests. It has smooth, green leaves that are oval-shaped and grow up to 30 centimeters long. The flowers of the plant are small and brown. Kava is easily recognized by its unique crownshaft that is red, green, or yellow and has a distinct bulge at the base.
Light requirements
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. occidua O. Deg. & Sherff grows best in a partially shaded area, where it can receive dappled sunlight for a few hours each day. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf scorching and stunted growth. In the wild, this plant grows under the shade of tall trees and receives filtered light.
Temperature requirements
This plant thrives in a warm and humid environment. The ideal temperature range for Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. occidua O. Deg. & Sherff is between 60°F and 80°F. It cannot tolerate extreme temperatures and should be protected from frost. In colder regions, it is best to grow them in a hothouse or indoors under grow lights.
Soil requirements
The soil for Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. occidua O. Deg. & Sherff should be well-draining and rich in organic matter. It prefers slightly acidic soil with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The soil should have good water retention capacity, but not be waterlogged. A mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite can be a good option to provide the ideal growth medium for this plant.
Cultivation Methods:
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. occidua O. Deg. & Sherff is a tropical plant that needs warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive. It can be grown indoors in a bright and humid environment or outdoors in a shaded area. The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be repotted annually to allow for continued growth.
Watering Needs:
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. occidua O. Deg. & Sherff requires consistent and frequent watering, but not so much that the soil becomes waterlogged. The soil should be kept moist, but not wet, and the plant will benefit from occasional misting to increase humidity levels. If the leaves begin to droop, this is a sign that the plant needs more water.
Fertilization:
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. occidua O. Deg. & Sherff should be fertilized every other month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. A slow-release fertilizer can also be used to provide nutrients over a longer period. Care should be taken not to over-fertilize, as this can damage the plant.
Pruning:
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. occidua O. Deg. & Sherff benefits from pruning to maintain its shape and encourage growth. Pruning should be done in the early spring before new growth begins, as this will promote the growth of new shoots. The plant can be pruned back by up to one-third of its size, and any dead or damaged branches should be removed. Care should be taken to make clean cuts with sharp pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation of Tetraplasandra kavaiensis var. occidua
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis var. occidua is commonly known as 'Ohe or Kauila and belongs to the family Araliaceae. This endemic Hawaiian tree is a critically endangered species with only three surviving individuals. To preserve the species, propagation methods need to be implemented.
Cuttings
Cuttings are one of the most common propagation methods used for Tetraplasandra kavaiensis var. occidua. The best time for the collection of cuttings is during the dormant season (December-March). The cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood with a diameter of 0.5-1 cm and a length of 10-15 cm. It is recommended to apply rooting hormone powder on the base of the cuttings before planting in a rooting medium. The rooting medium should be a mixture of perlite and peat moss in a ratio of 1:1. The cuttings should be kept in an area with indirect light and temperature range between 20-25°C. The cuttings usually take 3-4 months to root and should be watered regularly.
Air Layering
Air layering is another propagation method that can be used for Tetraplasandra kavaiensis var. occidua. This method involves making a wound on the stem and covering it with a rooting medium and plastic wrap. The wound should be made on the stem at least 1 year old and should have a diameter of 1-1.5 cm. The rooting medium should be made of sphagnum moss. After, few months, roots will emerge from the wound. When the roots grew to a length of 2-3 cm, the plant can be separated from the parent plant and potted in a mixture of soil and compost.
Disease Management
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. occidua O. Deg. & Sherff is generally a healthy plant. However, it can be susceptible to certain diseases, such as:
- Leaf spot: This disease is caused by various fungi and can cause circular or irregular spots on the leaves. If left untreated, it can lead to defoliation and weaken the plant. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant.
- Anthracnose: This disease is caused by a fungus and can cause dark spots on the leaves and stems. It can also cause the leaves to have a wilted appearance. To manage this disease, remove and destroy infected plant material and avoid overhead watering.
- Root rot: This disease is caused by various fungi and can cause the roots to rot, leading to yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage this disease, ensure that the soil has good drainage and avoid overwatering.
Pest Management
Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. occidua O. Deg. & Sherff can also be affected by pests. The most common pests that can affect this plant are:
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and curl. To manage these pests, use insecticidal soap or a strong stream of water to remove them from the leaves.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowed, stippled leaves and webbing on the plant. To manage these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil and improve the humidity around the plant.
- Caterpillars: These insects can eat the leaves of the plant, causing significant damage. To manage these pests, pick them off by hand or use an organic insecticide.
Regularly inspecting the plant for signs of disease or pests and taking prompt action can help to keep Tetraplasandra kavaiensis (Mann) Sherff var. occidua O. Deg. & Sherff healthy and thriving.
