Origin
Wikstroemia lanaiensis Skottsberg var. acutifolia Skottsberg, commonly known as the Lanai 'akia, is a rare Hawaiian endemic shrub that is found only on the island of Lanai in Maui County, Hawaii.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Lanai 'akia and Lanai false o'hia. The name 'akia comes from the Hawaiian word for "bitter," which refers to the plant's bitter taste. The name false ohia refers to the similarity of the plant's leaves with the leaves of ohia lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha), another native Hawaiian plant.
Uses
The Lanai 'akia is used for its medicinal properties by Hawaiian healers. The plant contains compounds with antifungal and antibacterial properties. The leaves, bark, and roots are used for a variety of ailments, including fungal infections and skin conditions. The plant is also used in traditional Hawaiian cultural practices, such as hula and lei making.
General Appearance
The Lanai 'akia is a shrub or small tree that grows up to 10 feet tall. It has slender, flexible branches and dark green leaves that are about 1 inch long and 0.2 inches wide. The leaves are alternately arranged, and have pointed tips and smooth edges. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit is a small, brown capsule that splits open to release seeds.
Light
Wikstroemia lanaiensis Skottsberg var. acutifolia Skottsberg thrives best in full sunlight. It requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Insufficient sunlight will result in slow growth, and its leaves will fade and yellow. In shade, the plant may develop thin stems and lose its compact shape.
Temperature
The plant grows best in daytime temperatures that range from 70-80°F (21-27°C) and nighttime temperatures that range from 60-70°F (15-21°C). Extremely high temperatures can cause the plant to wilt and stop growing. It can tolerate lower temperatures briefly, but prolonged cold exposure can cause the plant to die.
Soil
Wikstroemia lanaiensis Skottsberg var. acutifolia Skottsberg thrives in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and rich in organic matter. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged. It can also grow well in sandy and loamy soil types. It is sensitive to soil salinity and alkaline soils, which can damage its roots and lead to yellowing and leaf loss.
Cultivation Methods
The Wikstroemia lanaiensis Skottsberg var. acutifolia Skottsberg plant thrives in well-draining soil, preferably soil with some sand mixed in to improve drainage. The plant also prefers indirect sunlight rather than direct sunlight. If planted outdoors, place it in a spot with partial sunlight. If the plant is grown indoors, place it near a window that receives indirect sunlight.
The plant is typically propagated using seeds or cuttings. The seeds are to be sown in a well-draining seedling mix and the cuttings are to be taken during the active growing season. Ensure the cutting has a node or two and has been treated with rooting hormone before planting.
Watering Needs
The Wikstroemia lanaiensis Skottsberg var. acutifolia Skottsberg plant likes to have its soil kept constantly moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant once every two to three days during the growing season. During the winter months, reduce watering to once every two weeks.
The plant is sensitive to overwatering. Signs of overwatering can be yellowing leaves, wilting, or the plant becoming waterlogged. If these signs appear, reduce watering and check the soil for proper drainage.
Fertilization
The Wikstroemia lanaiensis Skottsberg var. acutifolia Skottsberg plant benefits from a balanced potting mix, which contains equal parts of perlite, peat moss, and vermiculite. Additionally, fertilizing the plant with a balanced liquid fertilizer once a month during the active growing season can help promote healthy growth.
Avoid over-fertilizing the plant as this can cause fertilizer burn or salt buildup in the soil. Signs of this can be yellowing foliage or leaf drop. Ensure that the plant is thoroughly watered each time it is fertilized to prevent any buildup of fertilizer in the soil.
Pruning
The Wikstroemia lanaiensis Skottsberg var. acutifolia Skottsberg plant does not require regular pruning. However, if the plant becomes leggy or overgrown, it can be pruned back to promote bushy growth. Use clean, sharp pruning shears and avoid cutting the plant back more than a third of its overall size.
Dead or damaged branches or leaves can be removed as needed to promote healthy growth.
Propagation of Wikstroemia Lanaiensis Skottsberg var. Acutifolia Skottsberg
Wikstroemia Lanaiensis Skottsberg var. Acutifolia Skottsberg, commonly known as Akia, is a shrub native to Hawaii. Propagation of this plant can be done through various methods, including:
Seed Propagation
Akia can be propagated through its seeds. Collect the matured seeds from the plant during the fall season and store them in a dry and cool place. After that, soak the seeds in water for 24 hours before sowing them in a mixture of soil and sand. Keep the mixture damp and place it in a bright, warm area. The seeds should germinate in 3-6 weeks, and after that, the seedlings can be transferred to individual pots for further growth.
Cuttings
Another way to propagate Akia is through cuttings. Take semi-hardwood cuttings from the plant during the summer season. Cut the pieces about 6-8 inches long, and remove all the bottom leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a mixture of peat and sand. Water the cuttings lightly and cover them with a plastic bag to create a humid environment. After 3-4 weeks, the cuttings should establish roots, and the plastic bag can be removed.
Layering
Akia can also be propagated through a technique called layering. To use this method, bend a low branch of an established plant towards the ground and make a small cut on the underside of the branch where it touches the soil. Cover the cut part with soil, and secure the branch with a rock or stake. After a few weeks, the branch will produce roots, and it can be detached from the parent plant and transplanted to a new location.
Propagation of Akia can be a bit tricky, but with proper techniques and care, one can easily propagate and grow this beautiful plant.
Disease Management
Wikstroemia lanaiensis Skottsberg var. acutifolia Skottsberg is generally hardy and not prone to many diseases. However, certain fungal diseases may affect the plant, such as root rot, leaf spot, and powdery mildew.
To prevent root rot, it is important to ensure that the soil has proper drainage. Overwatering should be avoided, and the soil should not be allowed to become waterlogged. Additionally, affected plants may need to be removed to prevent the spread of the disease.
Leaf spot can be managed by removing any infected leaves and providing proper air circulation. Fungicides may also be used to control the disease.
Powdery mildew can be prevented by ensuring that the plant receives adequate sunlight and proper air circulation. Fungicides may be used to control the disease if it appears.
Pest Management
Wikstroemia lanaiensis Skottsberg var. acutifolia Skottsberg is not generally prone to pest infestations. However, certain pests may still affect the plant, such as scale insects, spider mites, and aphids.
To manage scale insects, it is important to regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation. Infected plants can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
Spider mites can be managed by regularly inspecting the plant for signs of infestation and removing any affected leaves. Additionally, a forceful stream of water can be used to remove the insects from the plant. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or horticultural oil may be necessary.
Aphids can be managed by regularly inspecting the plant for signs of infestation and removing any affected leaves. A forceful stream of water can also be used to remove the insects from the plant. In more severe cases, insecticidal soap or horticultural oil may be necessary.
