Origin
Tetraplasandra waimeae Wawra var. angustior Sherff is a species of flowering plant in the family Araliaceae. It is an endemic species found in the Waimea Canyon on the Hawaiian island of Kaua?i.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Waimea ?ula?ula, or ?Ohe. The latter name is derived from the Hawaiian word for bamboo, which the plant's thin, segmented stem resembles.
Uses
Historically, Tetraplasandra waimeae Wawra var. angustior Sherff was used to make tools and weapons. The plant's strong, durable wood was fashioned into fishhooks, spears, and knives by the indigenous Hawaiians. Today, the plant is primarily grown as a landscape ornamental.
Appearance
The plant has a distinct appearance, characterized by its slender, bamboo-like stems that can grow up to 33 feet tall. The stems are segmented and have a whitish-green color. Branches grow out from the segments, each with a cluster of dark-green, glossy leaves at the end. The leaves are approximately 15 inches long and have a pointed oval shape.
Typical Growth Conditions of Tetraplasandra waimeae Wawra var. angustior Sherff
Tetraplasandra waimeae Wawra var. angustior Sherff, commonly known as the Hawaiian holly, is a rare species of plant that is endemic to Hawaii. It belongs to the family of Araliaceae and mostly found in the montane wet forest of the Hawaiian Islands.
Light Requirements
The Hawaiian holly plant prefers a high amount of shade or partial sunlight. Direct sunlight exposure can lead to leaf scorching, causing irreversible damage to the plant. Using shade cloth or planting the Hawaiian holly plant under a canopy of taller trees can help maintain the ideal light levels for growth.
Temperature Requirements
The Hawaiian holly plant thrives best in a warm and humid environment, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F. These plants are not frost-tolerant and can get severely damaged if exposed to temperatures below 50°F. The ideal temperature range for growth is 70°F to 75°F with high humidity levels.
Soil Requirements
The Hawaiian holly plant requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil must be slightly acidic, with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. These plants grow best in soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It is essential to maintain proper soil moisture by watering the plant regularly but not too frequently.
Lastly, the Hawaiian holly plant is a slow grower, and it requires patience and care. According to the Hawaiian Cultural Garden website, it can take up to two to three years before the plant begins to flower, and up to seven years before it reaches full maturity. Therefore, it is vital to provide the ideal growth conditions to ensure the plant grows to its full potential.
Cultivation Methods
Tetraplasandra waimeae Wawra var. angustior Sherff is native to Hawaii and requires warm, humid conditions for optimal growth. It should be grown in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant does well in partial shade to prevent leaf scorching, while still receiving plenty of indirect sunlight.
Watering Needs
The plant requires moderate watering, which should be done with care to avoid over-watering or under-watering. Watering should be done only when the top layer of soil is dry. Over-watering can cause root rot, while under-watering can lead to wilt and dryness.
Fertilization
Tetraplasandra waimeae Wawra var. angustior Sherff requires regular fertilization to maintain its health and vigor. It should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. The fertilizer should be rich in nitrogen to promote foliage growth and phosphorus for root development.
Pruning
The plant does not require frequent pruning but should be pruned occasionally to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Pruning should be done during the dormant season to avoid any stress to the plant. Regular removal of spent flowers and leaves will also help to maintain the plant's health and appearance.
Propagation of Tetraplasandra waimeae Wawra var. angustior Sherff
Tetraplasandra waimeae Wawra var. angustior Sherff is usually propagated through seeds or stem cuttings.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of Tetraplasandra waimeae Wawra var. angustior Sherff are small, black, and round. They can be sown in flats or pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. After sowing, it is important to keep the soil constantly moist until the seeds germinate, which usually takes 4-6 weeks. Once the seedlings have grown a few inches tall, they can be transplanted into individual pots or in the ground.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Stem cuttings of Tetraplasandra waimeae Wawra var. angustior Sherff can be taken in spring or summer. The cuttings should be at least 3 inches long and have a few pairs of leaves attached. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone and insert it in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the potting mix moist and place the cutting in a bright, but shaded area. After a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots. Once the cutting has established roots, it can be transplanted into individual pots or in the ground.
Disease Management
One common disease that affects Tetraplasandra waimeae Wawra var. angustior Sherff is powdery mildew. This disease is characterized by a white, powdery growth on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage powdery mildew, it is important to provide good air circulation around the plant and to avoid overhead irrigation. Fungicides can also be used to prevent and control powdery mildew.
Another disease that can affect this plant is root rot. This disease is caused by overwatering and poorly draining soil. To manage root rot, it is important to ensure that the plant is not overwatered and that the soil is well-draining. If root rot has already set in, it may be necessary to prune away affected roots and repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Pest Management
One common pest that can affect Tetraplasandra waimeae Wawra var. angustior Sherff is scale insects. These insects are small and can be found on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage scale insects, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and to remove any scales that are found. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to control scale insects.
Anoher pest that can affect this plant is spider mites. These pests are very small and can be difficult to see with the naked eye. They feed on the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and to remove any affected leaves. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can also be used to control spider mites.
