Origin
Tetraplasandra lydgatei (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. brachypoda Sherff, commonly known as the Hawaiian name "?Ohe k?pau" or "?Ohe makai", is a species of flowering plant in the family Araliaceae. This plant species is endemic to the Hawaiian islands and can be found growing naturally in the moist mesic, wet and rain forests on the islands of Kaua'i, O'ahu, Moloka'i, Maui, and Hawai'i.
Common Names
Tetraplasandra lydgatei (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. brachypoda Sherff is commonly called as 'Ohe kipau, a name referring to the bamboo-like appearance of its stems and resembling the 'ohe (bamboo). Additionally, it is also known as 'Ohe makai, which translates to 'bamboo that grows near the sea'.
Uses
The plant's uses are mostly ornamental and ecological. In its native habitat, the species serves as a habitat for several endemic Hawaiian species of birds, butterflies, and moths, who use the plant in various ways for nesting, resting, and feeding. In addition, this plant species is a significant source of pollen for honeybees.
The plant is suitable for ornamental purposes in tropical gardens and parks and can be grown as a potted plant. It is a popular choice among landscapers and can grow up to 20 feet in height and up to 6 inches in diameter, with dense foliage. The plant is hardy and may grow in various soil types and light conditions, ranging from partial shade to full sun. However, it thrives in moist soil, and this factor must be taken into consideration in landscaping.
General Appearance
Tetraplasandra lydgatei (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. brachypoda Sherff is a flowering plant with stout stems that grow up to 6 inches in diameter and can reach up to 20 feet in height. The leaves of the plant are scale-like, overlapping, and form a distinctive diamond pattern, and can be up to 1 inch in length. The plant's inflorescence is a panicle of small flowers (< 0.2 inches across) that are greenish-white in color and have an unpleasant smell. The plant produces small, roundish drupes, approximately 0.2 inches in diameter, which turn purple-black when matured.
Light Requirements:
Tetraplasandra lydgatei var. brachypoda prefers bright, indirect sunlight. The plant should not be exposed to direct sunlight for long periods of time as it can damage the leaves. In its natural habitat, the plant is typically found in the understory of forests, which provides filtered light.
Temperature Requirements:
This plant adapts well to a variety of temperatures, but it thrives in warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range for Tetraplasandra lydgatei var. brachypoda is between 70-85°F (21-29°C). It is essential to protect the plant from cold drafts and frost as it can cause damage to the leaves and slow down growth.
Soil Requirements:
Tetraplasandra lydgatei var. brachypoda prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant grows well in a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and sand. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not soggy, as waterlogged soil can cause root rot. A layer of mulch around the base of the plant can help retain moisture levels.
Cultivation Methods
The Tetraplasandra lydgatei (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. brachypoda Sherff plant prefers a warm climate, with consistent temperatures ranging from 60-80°F. The plant thrives in well-draining, moist soil, and partial shade to complete shade. When cultivating the plant, ensure that the soil is moist at all times, but not waterlogged.Watering Needs
Water Tetraplasandra lydgatei (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. brachypoda Sherff regularly to keep the soil appropriately moist. The plant requires more water during active growth periods when the temperature begins to increase. During the winter months, the plant needs less water to avoid waterlogging and root rot. To avoid overwatering, ensure that the soil is adequately draining, and allow it to dry partially before watering.Fertilization
Fertilize Tetraplasandra lydgatei (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. brachypoda Sherff during active growth periods. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every other week to keep the plant healthy and encourage growth. Avoid overfertilizing the plant, which can cause damage to the roots and foliage.Pruning
Regular pruning of Tetraplasandra lydgatei (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. brachypoda Sherff can help promote fuller growth and remove dead or damaged leaves and branches. Prune the plant during the active growth periods using clean, sharp shears. Avoid pruning during the winter months as the plant is dormant.Propagation Methods for Tetraplasandra lydgatei var. brachypoda
Tetraplasandra lydgatei var. brachypoda, commonly known as the Pua pilo tree, is a native plant of Hawaii. The plant can be propagated through various means, including seeds, cuttings, and air layering.
Propagation Using Seeds
The Pua pilo tree produces small black seeds that can be propagated. Seeds should be collected when they are ripe from the tree's fruit. The seeds can be planted in well-draining soil in a pot or directly in the ground. Adequate watering is necessary for successful germination. The seedlings can be transplanted once they have developed a few leaves and grown to a suitable size.
Propagation Using Cuttings
Cuttings can be taken from mature Pua pilo trees to propagate new plants. Softwood cuttings are ideal, and they should be about 4-6 inches long. Removing the leaves from the lower half of the cutting will promote rooting. The cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a well-drained soil mixture. They should be kept in a high humidity environment until roots have formed, after which they can be transplanted.
Propagation Using Air Layering
Air layering can be used to propagate Pua pilo trees. The process involves wounding a stem and encouraging roots to grow from the wound before separating it from the parent plant. Choose a healthy stem and make a wound about one-third of the way through the stem. Apply rooting hormone to the wound, wrap it with moist sphagnum moss, and secure it with plastic wrap. Roots should start growing in a few weeks, and the new plant can be separated from the parent plant and transplanted.
Disease and Pest Management for Tetraplasandra lydgatei (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. brachypoda Sherff
While Tetraplasandra lydgatei (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. brachypoda Sherff is generally a hardy plant, it is not immune to diseases and pests. Being aware of the potential issues and understanding how to manage them can keep the plant healthy and thriving.
Common Diseases
Fungal diseases can pose a threat to Tetraplasandra lydgatei. Botrytis blight, also known as gray mold, is a common problem. This disease causes gray, fuzzy growth on the leaves and stem, which can spread and eventually kill the plant. Powdery mildew is another fungal disease, which presents as a white, powdery substance on the leaves, stem, and flowers.
Disease Management
To prevent fungal diseases, ensure the plant is not overcrowded and has good airflow. Water the plant at the base and avoid getting the leaves and stem wet. Remove any infected plant material immediately. Fungicides can be effective in managing fungal diseases if used correctly. Follow the instructions on the product label.
Common Pests
Tetraplasandra lydgatei can attract a variety of pests, including mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites. Mealybugs are small, white insects that can be found on the underside of leaves and stems. They secrete a sticky substance that can attract ants and cause mold growth. Aphids are tiny insects that can be green, brown, or black and often cluster on new growth. Spider mites are not insects, but rather members of the arachnid family. They are very small, but their presence is often evidenced by webbing on the affected plant parts.
Pest Management
Inspect your plants regularly for signs of pests. If you notice any, isolate the affected plant to prevent the pest from spreading. For small infestations, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. For more severe infestations, chemical insecticides may be necessary. As always, be sure to follow the instructions on the product label carefully.
By being proactive in disease and pest management, Tetraplasandra lydgatei can remain healthy and attractive for years to come.
