Origin
Dubautia ciliolata (DC.) Keck ssp. ciliolata, commonly known as Mauna Kea silversword, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is endemic to the island of Hawaii, particularly found on the Mauna Kea volcano.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Mauna Kea silversword due to its habitat on the slopes of Mauna Kea. It is also known as Dubautia ciliate or silversword.
Appearance
The Mauna Kea silversword is a perennial subshrub that grows up to 1 meter tall. It has a basal rosette of silvery-green leaves that are long, narrow, and linear, with fine cilia along the edges. The leaves are arranged in a dense spiral, forming a tight rosette that protects the plant from the extreme weather conditions commonly found at higher elevations of the volcano. The plant blooms once in its lifetime, producing a tall inflorescence with hundreds of small yellow flowers.
Uses
The Mauna Kea silversword has no known uses in traditional medicine or as a food source. Due to its rarity and native habitat, the plant has become a symbol of conservation and sustainability efforts. Visitors to Mauna Kea can admire the plant's striking appearance while also learning about the importance of protecting native species and ecosystems.
Light Requirements
Dubautia ciliolata (DC.) Keck ssp. ciliolata typically grows in areas that receive full sun exposure. It can also grow in areas with partial shade. However, it prefers to have more than six hours of sunlight daily. Insufficient light levels may result in weaker plant development and reduced flower production.
Temperature Requirements
The subspecies of Dubautia ciliolata prefers a warm and humid climate with temperatures ranging from 55 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they can also grow in cooler temperatures up to 40 degrees Fahrenheit. It is essential to note that prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures may affect the plant's growth and development.
Soil Requirements
Dubautia ciliolata (DC.) Keck ssp. ciliolata typically grows well in well-draining soils with adequate moisture levels. It grows well in acidic and neutral soils with a pH of 4.0 to 7.5. The plant prefers soil that is rich in organic matter and can quickly drain off excess water. It can tolerate windy and salty conditions, making it ideal for growth near the coastal region. It is essential to avoid water-logged soils as they may lead to root rot and ultimately affect the plant's development.
Cultivation
Dubautia ciliolata is native to Hawaii and is accustomed to tropical climates, making it a bit tricky to cultivate outside of its natural habitat. It prefers full sun exposure, but also needs some shade during the hottest part of the day. The plant grows best in well-draining, acidic soil in the 6.0-6.5 pH range. To simulate its natural habitat, aim to keep the temperature between 60-80°F (15-27°C) if possible.
Watering Needs
As with most plants, Dubautia ciliolata requires consistent and adequate watering. The key is not to overwater or underwater the plant. In other words, keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, it is recommended to water twice a week, and once a week during the dormant period. However, adjust the amount of water based on the temperature and humidity of your environment.
Fertilization
Since Dubautia ciliolata grows in nutrient-poor soil in the wild, it doesn't require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer (1/2 strength) once every two months during the growing season should suffice. Be careful not to apply too much fertilizer as it can harm the plant.
Pruning
Dubautia ciliolata is a slow grower, but it does benefit from occasional pruning to maintain its shape and stimulate growth. You can prune in the fall after it has finished flowering or in the early spring before new growth begins. Focus on cutting back any dead or damaged branches and then selectively trim to your desired shape. Avoid pruning too much at once, as this can shock the plant and delay new growth.
Propagation of Dubautia Ciliolata
The Dubautia ciliolata is a Hawaiian endemic plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The species is also known as Na`ena`e in Hawaiian and is typically found at elevations between 1,300 and 2,800 meters on the islands of Kaua`i and Ni`ihau. The plant species is commonly propagated via seed or cuttings.
Propagation through Seed
The propagation of Dubautia ciliolata through seeds requires adequate soil preparation. Seeds should be collected from mature plants and dried in a well-ventilated location. After which, the seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before planting.
Planting should be done in well-drained soil that has adequate aeration. Lightly compact the soil so that the seed comes into contact with the soil. Seeds should be planted at a depth of 1.5-2 times their size, and the seedbed should be kept moist, but not watered excessively.
The seeds usually take three to five weeks to germinate, depending on the weather conditions. Once germinated, the young plants should be thinned out to maintain a distance of 6-12 inches between each plant.
Propagation through Cuttings
An alternative method of propagating Dubautia ciliolata is through stem cuttings. Cuttings can be taken from healthy, mature plants in the summer or fall. The cuttings should be around 4-6 inches long and have at least two leaves attached to them.
The cuttings should be planted in a rooting medium consisting of sand, peat moss, and perlite. The cuttings should be planted at a depth of 1-1.5 inches, and the soil should be moist, but not watered excessively.
The cuttings should be placed in a shaded location, and the rooting medium should be moistened frequently. In about 4-6 weeks, roots should develop, and the cuttings should begin to grow. Once the cuttings have grown to a sufficient size, they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
Disease Management
Dubautia ciliolata is generally a healthy plant that is resistant to many diseases. However, it can be susceptible to some fungal and bacterial infections. Here are some common diseases that can affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Leaf spot: Leaf spot is caused by fungal infection and can result in yellow spots on the leaves. To manage it, it is recommended to remove the affected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide.
- Rust: Rust is a fungal infection that causes orange or yellow rust spots on the leaves. To manage rust, it is important to remove the affected leaves and spray the plant with a fungicide. It is also recommended to improve the air circulation around the plant.
- Bacterial blight: Bacterial blight can cause wilting and blackening of the leaves and stems. To manage it, it is recommended to remove the affected plant parts and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides may also be used to manage the disease.
Pest Management
Dubautia ciliolata is also relatively resistant to pests. However, some pests may still pose a threat to the plant. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
- Spider mites: Spider mites can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. To manage spider mites, it is recommended to spray the plant with a miticide.
- Thrips: Thrips are small bugs that can cause brown or white spots on the leaves. To manage them, it is recommended to remove the affected plant parts and spray the plant with an insecticide.
- Caterpillars: Caterpillars can chew on the leaves and cause significant damage to the plant. To manage them, it is recommended to remove the caterpillars by hand and spray the plant with an insecticide.
