Origin
Tetraplasandra meiandra(Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. molokaiensis Skottsberg, also known as Moloka’i uluhehiwa, is a rare plant species native to the island of Moloka’i in the Hawaiian Islands. It is predominantly found in the wet forests of Kamakou Preserve and Pelekunu Valley.
Common Names
The plant Tetraplasandra meiandra(Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. molokaiensisis locally referred to as Moloka’i uluhehiwa, meaning “Moloka’i dark fern” in Hawaiian. Besides that, the plant is also called Moloka’i o’ahu, a reference to the island of Oahu where the original variety of the plant was discovered.
Uses
The Tetraplasandra meiandra(Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. molokaiensis Skottsberg is an important plant in the Hawaiian ecological landscape. It provides habitat and food for a variety of endemic bird species, such as the Puaiohi thrush. Additionally, the plant’s root bark and leaves are an important source of traditional medicine for respiratory illnesses and lymphatic drainage disorders. Given that the plant is rare, conservation efforts have been put in place to protect it from extinction.
General Appearance
The Moloka’i uluhehiwa is a small tree that can grow up to 7m tall, although some specimens grow up to 12m tall. Its narrow, elliptic leaves are dark green and glossy, measuring up to 35cm long and 15cm wide. The plant bears small, red raisin-like fruits that turn black when mature. The main stem of the plant is usually straight, with a bark that can vary from dark brown to black. The young branches of the plant have a distinctive, reddish-brown coloration that fades with age.
Light Requirements
Tetraplasandra meiandra var. molokaiensis typically prefers partial shade to full shade environments. It can tolerate low light conditions, but too much direct sunlight can damage the leaves.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Tetraplasandra meiandra var. molokaiensis is between 70-85 °F (21-29 °C). It can tolerate slightly cooler temperatures, but it is sensitive to cold drafts and should not be exposed to temperatures below 60 °F (15.5 °C).
Soil Requirements
Tetraplasandra meiandra var. molokaiensis grows well in soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining. The pH range for this plant is between 5.5-6.5. It does not tolerate waterlogged soil and requires consistent moisture. Adding compost or mulch to the soil can help improve its overall quality.
Cultivation Methods for Tetraplasandra Meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. Molokaiensis Skottsberg
Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. molokaiensis Skottsberg, commonly known as Ohe Tree, is a slow-growing plant that can reach up to 50ft in height. When cultivating Tetraplasandra meiandra, it is best to start the seedlings in sandy soil or a well-draining potting mix. The plant prefers humid conditions and high temperatures, so keep it in a warm and humid environment.
Watering Needs for Tetraplasandra Meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. Molokaiensis Skottsberg
Tetraplasandra meiandra requires consistent watering to ensure that the soil is evenly moist. However, care must be taken not to over-water the plant, as it is susceptible to root rot. To check the moisture level, dig a finger into the soil, and if it feels dry, it needs watering.
Fertilization for Tetraplasandra Meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. Molokaiensis Skottsberg
Tetraplasandra meiandra benefits from regular fertilization to promote its growth. It is best to use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer that is rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. The fertilizer should be applied to the soil around the plant, following the manufacturer's instructions.
Pruning Tetraplasandra Meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. Molokaiensis Skottsberg
Tetraplasandra meiandra requires little pruning, but it is essential to remove any dead or diseased branches to prevent the spread of disease. The plant may also need shaping to maintain its form. Pruning should be done during the plant's dormant season, which is usually in the fall or winter, to avoid stimulating new growth that could be damaged by cold temperatures.
Propagation of Tetraplasandra meiandra var. molokaiensis
Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. molokaiensis Skottsberg, commonly known as olopua, is a shrub or small tree that is endemic to the islands of Hawaii. Propagation of this plant can be done either by seeds or vegetative means.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Tetraplasandra meiandra var. molokaiensis are collected from mature fruits that have turned brown and have started to split open. These seeds should be cleaned and soaked overnight in water before sowing. They can be sown in pots or trays filled with a well-draining potting mix, and covered with a thin layer of the same mix. The pots should then be placed in an area with bright but indirect sunlight, and kept consistently moist until germination occurs.
Germination of Tetraplasandra meiandra var. molokaiensis seeds can take several weeks to months, and the resulting seedlings may grow slowly. Once they have reached a suitable size, they can be transplanted into larger pots or directly into the ground.
Propagation by Vegetative Means
Vegetative propagation of Tetraplasandra meiandra var. molokaiensis can be done through stem cuttings, root cuttings, or layering. Stem cuttings should be taken from the tips of healthy stems, and should be at least 4-6 inches long. They should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept in a humid environment until roots develop.
Root cuttings can also be taken from young plants, and should be at least 2 inches long. They should be planted horizontally in a potting mix, covered with a thin layer of the same mix, and kept consistently moist until they begin to produce shoots.
Layering involves bending a low-growing stem to the ground and covering a section of it with soil. Roots will develop along this section, and once they have formed, the stem can be cut and the new plant can be transplanted.
Disease Management
Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. molokaiensis Skottsberg is relatively disease-resistant. However, in some cases, certain diseases can affect the plant. One common disease that might affect Tetraplasandra meiandra is leaf spot. Leaf spot is caused by fungi and can be identified by the spots on the leaves. To manage this disease, it is essential to remove and destroy the infected leaves. A fungicide can also be used to manage severe outbreaks of leaf spot.
Pest Management
Like any other plant, Tetraplasandra meiandra is susceptible to pest infestations. One common pest that affects Tetraplasandra meiandra is scale insects. Scale insects are small, oval bugs that suck the juices from the leaves, causing yellowing and leaf drop. To manage a scale infestation, it is essential to remove and destroy the infected leaves. A horticultural oil spray can also be used to suffocate the scale insects. Another pest that might infest Tetraplasandra meiandra is spider mites. Spider mites cause discoloration and browning of the leaves. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to increase the humidity around the plant and to use a miticide if necessary.
