Overview
Tetraplasandra oahuensis (Gray) H.A.T. Harms var. pseudolongipes O. Deg. & Sherff is a species of flowering plant in the family Araliaceae. It is commonly known as ‘ohe in Hawaiian language.
Origin
The plant is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, specifically found on the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, and Maui. It is typically found in mesic to wet forests at elevations from 300 to 1,220 meters.
General Appearance
Tetraplasandra oahuensis is a small to medium-sized tree that can grow up to 16 meters tall. Its bark is gray-brown, and its leaves are dark green and shiny with a length of 30-60 cm and a width of 6-14 cm.
The plant's flowers are small, white, and arranged in a pyramid-shaped cluster at the end of the branches, while its fruits are small, shiny black berries.
Uses
Tetraplasandra oahuensis has been used traditionally by the indigenous people of Hawaii for medicinal purposes. The bark was brewed into a tea and used to treat stomach pain, while the fruits and leaves were used to make a poultice to relieve headaches and other ailments.
Today, the plant is used primarily for ornamental purposes in landscaping and as an indoor houseplant. It is valued for its attractive foliage and unique branching pattern.
Light Requirements
Tetraplasandra oahuensis var. pseudolongipes thrives in partially shaded areas with filtered light. It can grow well in both sunny and shady areas, but it is best to avoid direct sunlight exposure. Exposure to full sunlight can cause the foliage to burn or wilt.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in a warm and humid environment. Ideally, the temperature should range between 60°F to 85°F. However, the plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F, but it may lead to slow growth and wilting.
Soil Requirements
The plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH ranging between 5.5 to 7.5. The soil should also be rich in organic matter to promote healthy growth. It is best to avoid heavy clay soils that cause waterlogging as this leads to root rot. A soil mix containing peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite with a 1:1:1 ratio is ideal for planting Tetraplasandra oahuensis var. pseudolongipes.
Cultivation Methods
Tetraplasandra oahuensis (Gray) H.A.T. Harms var. pseudolongipes O. Deg. & Sherff is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require a bit of care to thrive. It is a tropical plant that prefers warm, humid conditions. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors, although it will need some protection from direct sunlight. It can be propagated through cuttings or seedlings.
Watering Needs
The watering needs of Tetraplasandra oahuensis (Gray) H.A.T. Harms var. pseudolongipes O. Deg. & Sherff are moderate. It needs to be watered regularly but not too frequently. Overwatering can be problematic, as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. The plant should be allowed to dry out slightly in between waterings. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. The best time to fertilize is during the growing season, which typically runs from spring to fall. The fertilizer should be diluted to half strength and applied every two weeks or so. It's important to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to burn and other problems.
Pruning
Tetraplasandra oahuensis (Gray) H.A.T. Harms var. pseudolongipes O. Deg. & Sherff benefits from occasional pruning to remove dead or damaged leaves and to promote a bushier growth habit. It can be pruned as needed throughout the year. It's important to use clean, sharp tools to avoid damaging the plant or spreading diseases. Pruning should be done in the morning or evening, when the temperature is cooler and the plant is less stressed.
Propagation of Tetraplasandra oahuensis var. pseudolongipes
Tetraplasandra oahuensis var. pseudolongipes can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation from Seeds
Tetraplasandra oahuensis var. pseudolongipes can be grown from seeds. The seeds are collected from ripe fruits that have turned a yellowish-orange color. The seeds can be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The soil should be kept moist but not overly wet. The seeds take around 1-2 months to germinate.
Propagation from Stem Cuttings
Tetraplasandra oahuensis var. pseudolongipes can also be propagated from stem cuttings. Take a stem cutting that is around 4-6 inches in length and has at least two leaves on it. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone. Plant the stem cutting in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist. The cutting should root in around 4-6 weeks.
Disease and Pest Management for Tetraplasandra oahuensis (Gray) H.A.T. Harms var. pseudolongipes O. Deg. & Sherff
Tetraplasandra oahuensis (Gray) H.A.T. Harms var. pseudolongipes O. Deg. & Sherff, commonly known as 'ohe, is a plant native to Hawaii and belongs to the family Araliaceae. Here are some common diseases and pests that affect this plant and how to manage them.
Diseases
Fungal diseases: Fungal diseases affect the plant's leaves, stems, and roots. Symptoms include leaf spots, wilting, yellowing, and stem rot. Fungicides such as copper-based sprays and neem oil can be used to manage fungal diseases.
Bacterial diseases: Bacterial diseases cause yellowing and wilting of leaves and stems, which can lead to plant death. The use of copper-based sprays and sanitizing pruning tools can help to control bacterial diseases.
Viral diseases: Viral diseases cause leaf distortion and discoloration, mottling, stunted growth, and sometimes death. There is no cure for viral diseases, so it is recommended to remove and destroy affected plants to prevent further spread.
Pests
Scale insects: Scale insects suck the plant's sap, causing yellowing of leaves and stunted growth. The use of horticultural oils and insecticidal soap can help to control scale insects.
Spider mites: Spider mites feed on the plant's sap, causing yellowing and mottling of leaves. They can be controlled by using horticultural oils, insecticidal soap, and neem oil.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars feed on the plant's leaves, causing defoliation and stunted growth. The use of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray can help to control caterpillars.
Mealybugs: Mealybugs feed on the plant's sap, causing plant wilting and yellowing. The use of insecticidal soap and horticultural oils can help to control mealybugs.
Regular monitoring of the plant for any signs of diseases and pests is crucial for its overall health. Removal of any infected or infested parts, sterilization of pruning tools, and proper plant care practices such as watering and fertilizing can also help to prevent and manage diseases and pests.
