Origin
Dubautia molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. stipitata (Sherff) Keck is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is endemic to the Hawaiian island of Molokai, where it is found in subalpine shrubland on the summit of Kamakou.
Common Names
The plant is commonly known as Moloka'i dubautia or Kamakou dubautia.
Uses
Dubautia molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. stipitata (Sherff) Keck is not known to have any significant medicinal or economic uses. However, it plays an important ecological role in the ecosystem as it is a primary food source for the native Hawaiian moth, Emmelina monodactyla.
General Appearance
Dubautia molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. stipitata (Sherff) Keck is a small, woody shrub that reaches a height of 0.5-1.5 meters. The leaves are leathery and oblong in shape, measuring 2-9 cm in length. The flowers are yellow and arranged in clusters at the ends of the branches. The plant blooms from February to May.
Light Requirements
Dubautia molokaiensis var. stipitata requires full sun to partial shade to grow properly. It cannot thrive in areas that are completely shaded. Lack of sunlight suppresses the plant's ability to photosynthesize and produce energy, which ultimately stunts its growth.
Temperature Requirements
The plant is native to Hawaii, and it can adapt to a broad range of temperatures. Dubautia molokaiensis var. stipitata can grow in temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C, but it thrives best in temperatures ranging from 20°C to 24°C. When temperatures go below 10°C, the leaves may wilt, yellow, or drop from the plant.
Soil Requirements
Dubautia molokaiensis var. stipitata prefers well-draining, acidic soils. The soil needs to be rich in organic matter and host a pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5. Sandy soils are also acceptable for growing the plant. Soil that is too dense or too waterlogged can cause root rot and other fungal diseases, which reduces the plant's capacity to absorb water and nutrients.
Cultivation Methods
Dubautia molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. stipitata (Sherff) Keck is a relatively easy plant to cultivate. It thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can be propagated by stem cuttings or grown from seeds.
Watering Needs
Watering is a crucial aspect of caring for Dubautia molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. stipitata (Sherff) Keck. This plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. However, it is crucial to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. It is recommended to water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization
Regular fertilization is essential to keep Dubautia molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. stipitata (Sherff) Keck healthy and thriving. You can fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season. However, it is crucial to follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging carefully to avoid over-fertilization, which can cause damage to the plant.
Pruning
Pruning is a crucial aspect of caring for Dubautia molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. stipitata (Sherff) Keck. This plant benefits from regular trimming to shape it and promote healthy growth. You can prune the plant during the dormant season to remove any damaged or diseased parts. Additionally, you can prune to promote bushier growth and to ensure that the plant remains at a manageable size.
Propagation of Dubautia Molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. Stipitata (Sherff) Keck
The plant Dubautia Molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. Stipitata (Sherff) Keck can be propagated by different methods. Here are some of the popular methods used for propagating this plant:
Seed Propagation
One of the easiest and popular methods used for propagating Dubautia Molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. Stipitata (Sherff) Keck is seed propagation. You can collect seeds from mature plants during the flowering and fruiting season. The optimal time for seed collection is when the seed capsules turn brownish-green or dry and crack open, revealing the shiny black seeds inside. The seeds have a long viability, usually lasting up to four years when stored at a low temperature and dry place. After collecting the seeds, prepare a well-draining potting mix and sow the seeds at a depth of 1/8 to 1/4 inches. Place the pot in a bright location, keep the soil moist, and wait for the seedlings to emerge. It takes approximately four to six weeks for seedlings to germinate, and it's recommended to transfer them into individual pots once they have two or three sets of true leaves.
Cuttings Propagation
Dubautia Molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. Stipitata (Sherff) Keck can also be propagated by stem cuttings. This method is more popular than propagating through rhizome cuttings. You can use either softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken from healthy plants during the growing season. Softwood cuttings are taken from the tender green shoots, while semi-hardwood cuttings are taken from the more mature stems. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone. Insert the cutting into a well-draining potting mix and cover the pot with a plastic bag or place it in a propagator. Keep the pot in a bright location but away from direct sunlight, and maintain the soil's moisture. Rooting takes approximately four to eight weeks, and you should transfer them into individual pots once roots have formed.
Division Propagation
Division propagation is another method used for propagating Dubautia Molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. Stipitata (Sherff) Keck. This method requires separating the root ball of mature plants into several small sections or clones. Use a sharp, sterilized knife or pruning shear to separate the root ball. Ensure that each section has enough foliage and roots to thrive independently. Pot each section into a well-draining potting mix and keep the soil moist. Place the pot in a bright location and avoid direct sunlight until the plant establishes. It's better to divide plants during either the fall or early spring when the plant is dormant.
Disease Management
Dubautia molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. stipitata (Sherff) Keck can be susceptible to various diseases, including leaf spot and powdery mildew. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that manifests as circular or irregular shaped spots on the leaves. Powdery mildew, on the other hand, appears as a white powdery growth on leaves and young shoots.
To manage leaf spot, use cultural controls such as pruning infected leaves, increasing air circulation by thinning out dense vegetation, and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used, but it is best to opt for organic fungicides to avoid damaging beneficial insects and pollinators.
Powdery mildew can be prevented by watering the plant at the base, maintaining good air circulation, and removing infected plant debris. Fungicides can also be used, but it is recommended to apply them before the disease gets to a severe stage.
Pest Management
The plant can be affected by various pests including aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the sap from leaves of the plant, whereas mealybugs are small, white, cotton-like insects that suck the plant sap also.
Spider mites are the most common pests that affect Dubautia molokaiensis (Hbd.) Keck var. stipitata (Sherff) Keck. They are tiny pests that create webs on the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. It is essential to monitor the plant regularly to detect any signs of pest infestation.
To manage pests, a simple method is to use a jet of water to wash off pest on the plant. For a severe infestation, use insecticidal soap or neem oil, but be careful when applying, follow the instructions properly, and avoid spraying during the day when beneficial insects are active.
Managing diseases and pests require a combination of cultural control, regular monitoring and proper use of pesticides. Prevention is better than cure, so it's important to take measures to prevent the occurrence of pests and diseases in the first place.
