Overview
Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. ovalis Sherff is a small tree native to Hawaii, where it is commonly known as Ohe or Ohe makai. This plant is a member of the Araliaceae family and is closely related to the Polynesian arrowroot (Tacca leontopetaloides).
Appearance
The leaves of Tetraplasandra meiandra are ovate or elliptical in shape, with a length of 30-60 cm and a width of 10-25 cm. The leaves have a glossy finish and are dark green in color. The plant produces small flowers that are greenish-white in color and grow in clusters. The fruit is a small drupe that is purple-black in color.
Uses
Tetraplasandra meiandra has a number of traditional uses in Hawaiian culture. The wood of the tree is used for carving, and the leaves are used to make lauhala (woven mats) and baskets. The plant has also been used medicinally to treat a variety of ailments, including headaches, gastrointestinal problems, and respiratory infections. In modern times, the plant is often used as an ornamental.
Light Requirements
Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. ovalis Sherff grows best in partially shaded areas. The plant requires bright, indirect light to thrive. Direct sunlight can be harmful to the leaves of the plant and may cause leaf scorching.
Temperature Requirements
The plant prefers warm temperatures between 68-86°F (20-30°C). It can tolerate cooler temperatures, but temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can cause damage to the leaves. It is essential to keep the temperature stable and avoid sudden temperature changes that can cause stress to the plant.
Soil Requirements
Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. ovalis Sherff requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. The ideal pH range for the soil should be between 5.5-6.5. Addition of organic compost can improve the soil quality and promote healthy growth.
Cultivation methods
The plant Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. ovalis Sherff is best grown in a shaded area, but it can tolerate partial sun exposure. It prefers a moist, well-draining soil mix and grows well in pots or in the ground. The plant can be propagated via seeds or stem cuttings taken in the spring.
Watering needs
Tetraplasandra meiandra requires consistent watering to keep the soil moist, but not overly saturated. The soil should never become dry, but at the same time, care must be taken not to let the plant sit in standing water. During the hotter months, the plant may require watering twice per day, while during the cooler months, watering once per day may be sufficient.
Fertilization
The best way to fertilize Tetraplasandra meiandra is by applying a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer months. It is essential to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to become leggy and weak. Alternatively, you can also use organic fertilizers like worm castings and fish emulsions.
Pruning
Pruning Tetraplasandra meiandra is necessary to maintain its shape and size. It is best done in the early spring, before new growth begins. The plant can be trimmed back by up to one-third of its overall size. Prune any damaged or dead leaves or stems as soon as they appear to prevent fungal diseases or insect infestations. Regular pruning also promotes better branching and a fuller appearance.
Propagation of Tetraplasandra meiandra var. ovalis Sherff
Tetraplasandra meiandra var. ovalis Sherff, commonly known as Kopiko, is a rare endemic plant species found only in the Hawaiian Islands. Propagation of this plant is necessary for its conservation and preservation.
Seed Propagation
Seeds of Tetraplasandra meiandra var. ovalis Sherff are small, brown, and round. The seeds are best collected when they are fully ripened and fall off the plant. The flowers of this plant typically bloom from February to April, and the seeds mature from May to August. The seeds must be cleaned and sterilized before sowing.
The seeds can be sown in a well-drained potting mix with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. The pot should be covered with a clear plastic bag or placed in a humidity dome to maintain high humidity. The ideal temperature for germination is between 20-30°C. Germination usually occurs within 2-3 months, but it may take up to 6 months.
Cutting Propagation
Tetraplasandra meiandra var. ovalis Sherff can also be propagated from stem cuttings. Softwood cuttings can be taken in the summer, while hardwood cuttings can be taken in the winter. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and must have at least 2-3 nodes. The bottom node should be stripped of leaves and dipped in a rooting hormone before being planted in a well-drained potting mix.
The pot should be covered with a clear plastic bag or placed in a humidity dome to maintain high humidity. The ideal temperature for rooting is between 20-25°C. Roots usually develop within 4-6 weeks.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering is another method for propagating Tetraplasandra meiandra var. ovalis Sherff. A section of a stem is wounded and covered with moist sphagnum moss and wrapped with clear plastic. The stem is kept moist until roots develop, which usually takes 3-6 months. Once roots have developed, the rooted section can be cut from the parent plant and potted in a well-drained potting mix.
Disease and Pest Management for Tetraplasandra meiandra var. ovalis Sherff
Tetraplasandra meiandra var. ovalis Sherff is a beautiful plant that is prone to certain diseases and pest attacks. Some common diseases and pests that may affect this plant are:
Diseases
1. Leaf spot disease: This is a fungal disease that causes brown or black spots on the leaves of the plant. It can be controlled by removing all the affected leaves and spraying with a fungicide.
2. Powdery mildew: This is a white fungal coating that appears on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can be controlled by spraying with a fungicide specially formulated for powdery mildew.
3. Root rot: Overwatering and poor drainage can cause the roots to rot, leading to leaf wilting and plant death. This disease can be prevented by allowing the soil to dry out between waterings and ensuring that the plant is not sitting in water.
Pests
1. Mealybugs: These are tiny white insects that feed on the sap of the plant and create a white cotton-like substance around them. They can be controlled by removing them manually and spraying with a neem oil solution.
2. Scale insects: They are small, flattened insects that appear as small brown or black bumps on the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be controlled by scraping them off the plant and spraying with a horticultural oil-based insecticide.
3. Spider mites: They are small, red or yellow pests that thrive in warm, dry conditions and suck on the sap of the plant. They can be controlled by washing the leaves with a hose or by wiping the leaves with a insecticidal soap solution.
Regular monitoring of the plant for any signs of diseases or pests is essential for maintaining its health and vitality. Always follow the instructions on the labels of any fungicide or insecticide used and take preventative measures, such as good cultural practices like watering the plant correctly and keeping the humidity levels optimal.
