Overview
Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. simulans Sherff, also known as Hame or Hame tree, is a member of the Araliaceae family. It is a small tree that is endemic to Hawaii and can be found on the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and Molokai.
General Appearance
The Hame tree can reach a height of 10-30 feet and has a trunk diameter of 8-12 inches. Its bark is a light brown color and is smooth when young but becomes rough and fissured as it ages. The leaves are dark green in color and are held on long petioles. They are pinnately compound and can have up to 13 leaflets that are elliptical to oblong in shape, with a pointed apex and a serrated margin.
Common Names
The Hame tree has several common names including Hame, Hamehame, and Hawaiian Aralia. These names are derived from the plant's Hawaiian name "hamehame," which means "many together" in reference to the plant's clustered leaves.
Uses
The Hame tree has several traditional uses in Hawaii. Its wood is used for making bowls, poi pounders, and other wooden items. Its leaves and bark were used for medicinal purposes to treat fever, coughs, and other ailments. The Hame tree is also used as an ornamental plant in landscaping due to its attractive foliage and small size.
Light Requirements
Tetraplasandra meiandra var. simulans Sherff requires moderate to bright, indirect sunlight for optimal growth. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but not for extended periods of time. It is important to avoid placing the plant in a location where it will receive intense, hot afternoon sunlight, as this may cause the leaves to scorch.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers warm and humid environments. It grows best in temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C), with night temperatures not falling below 60°F (15°C). It is important to keep the plant away from cold drafts and areas with fluctuating temperatures.
Soil Requirements
Tetraplasandra meiandra var. simulans Sherff grows best in well-draining soil that is moist but not saturated. It also prefers soil that is rich in organic matter. It is recommended to use a peat-based potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand to improve soil drainage. The plant should be kept in a pot with drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.
Fertilizer Requirements
The plant requires regular fertilization during the growing season. Using a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer at half strength once a month is recommended. It is important not to over-fertilize, as this can lead to salt buildup in the soil and damage to the plant.
Cultivation methods for Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. simulans Sherff
Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. simulans Sherff is a tropical plant that is native to Hawaii. It grows well in warm and humid environments with temperatures ranging from 65-80°F. The plant requires well-draining soil, which should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5-6.0. It thrives in partial to full shade.
Propagation for this plant is mainly done through stem cuttings, which should be taken from healthy and mature plants. The cuttings should be around 4-6 inches long and should be dipped in rooting hormone powder to increase the chances of successful rooting. The cuttings should then be planted in well-draining soil and kept moist until roots start to form.
Watering needs for Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. simulans Sherff
Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. simulans Sherff requires regular watering to thrive. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. It is recommended to water the plant deeply once a week, rather than shallow watering frequently. To prevent the plant from drying out, it is advisable to mulch around the base of the plant to retain soil moisture.
Fertilization for Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. simulans Sherff
Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. simulans Sherff requires regular fertilization to encourage healthy growth and foliage. It is recommended to use a slow-release fertilizer, which will nutrient the plant over several months. The plant should be fed with a balanced fertilizer every three months during the growing season (March to October). Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct amount to use since over-fertilization can harm the plant.
Pruning for Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. simulans Sherff
Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. simulans Sherff requires minimal pruning and is generally a low maintenance plant. Pruning is typically done to remove any dead or damaged leaves and to maintain the shape of the plant. It is advisable to prune in the spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing. Be sure to sanitize pruning shears to prevent the spread of disease since open pruning wounds can create an entry point for infections.
Propagation of Tetraplasandra meiandra var. simulans Sherff
Tetraplasandra meiandra var. simulans Sherff, commonly known as ‘Oha wai’ is a beautiful, large shrub or small tree that belongs to the Araliaceae family. It is native to Hawaii, and it has become endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. The plant has a unique ability to grow in diverse environments ranging from beaches to wet forests. It has gained popularity for its medicinal properties and ornamental value.
Propagation Methods
Propagation of Tetraplasandra meiandra var. simulans Sherff is relatively easy. The plant can be propagated either by seed or stem cuttings. However, stem cutting is considered the most effective propagation method because it produces a stable and uniform plant that is genetically identical to the parent plant.
Stem cutting can be carried out at any time of the year. It is preferable to choose stem cuttings from mature and healthy plants. The cutting should be about 6-8 inches long and should be made with a sharp knife or a pair of pruning shears. The lower leaves should be removed, and the cutting should be treated with rooting hormone to enhance the rooting process.
The stem cutting should be planted in well-drained soil, preferably a mixture of peat moss and perlite. The cutting should be watered regularly to maintain soil moisture. After a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots, and new shoots will emerge, indicating successful propagation.
Propagation by seed is also possible, but it takes longer to produce a mature plant. The seed should be collected when it is ripe, and it should be cleaned and stored in a dry and cool place. The seed should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting in well-drained soil. The seedlings should be kept under shade and should be watered regularly.
Propagation of Tetraplasandra meiandra var. simulans Sherff is an excellent way to propagate the plant and to preserve its unique characteristics. With proper care and maintenance, the propagated plants will grow to maturity and continue to provide ornamental and medicinal benefits for years to come.
Disease Management
Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. simulans Sherff is relatively disease-resistant, but some common diseases can affect the plant.
Leaf spot: Leaf spot is a fungal infection that causes small, dark, water-soaked spots on the leaves. To manage leaf spot, remove the infected leaves and increase air circulation around the plant by pruning and spacing the plants properly.
Powdery mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. This disease can be prevented by avoiding overwatering the plants and keeping the surrounding area clean. If powdery mildew does appear, remove infected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
Pest Management
Tetraplasandra meiandra (Hbd.) H.A.T. Harms var. simulans Sherff is also relatively pest-resistant, but some common pests can still affect the plant.
Mites: Mites are tiny pests that suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow or brown. Mites can be managed by regularly checking the plant for infestations and removing infected leaves. You can also spray the plant with a miticide.
Scale insects: Scale insects are small pests that stick to the leaves and stems of the plant, sucking sap and causing stunted growth. To manage scale insects, remove them by hand or spray the plant with insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can eat through the leaves of the plant, causing damage to the foliage. You should manually remove them if possible, or spray the plant with an insecticide to manage them.
