Overview
Santalum freycinetianum Gaud. var. lanaiense Rock, commonly known as Hawaiian sandalwood or ?iliahi, is a woody and evergreen tree species that is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It belongs to the sandalwood family (Santalaceae) and is highly valued for its fragrant wood and oil.
Origin and Distribution
Hawaiian sandalwood is native to the Hawaiian Islands, specifically to the islands of Kaua?i, O?ahu, Moloka?i, Maui, and L?na?i. However, due to overharvesting in the past, it is now very rare and endangered in the wild. In an effort to save the species, there are ongoing conservation efforts and sandalwood plantations established on the islands.
Common Names
Besides Hawaiian sandalwood and ?iliahi, Santalum freycinetianum Gaud. var. lanaiense Rock goes by other common names such as L?na?i sandalwood, Hawaiian sandalwood tree, and Hawaiian sandalwood shrub.
Uses
The fragrant wood and oil of Hawaiian sandalwood have been used for various purposes for centuries. The wood is highly valued for its distinctive fragrance and is commonly used for carving, furniture making, and ornamental purposes. The oil is also highly prized for its calming and relaxing properties and is used in aromatherapy, perfumes, and cosmetics. In addition, certain traditional Hawaiian practices involve the use of sandalwood, including the making of leis and ceremonial tools.
Appearance
Hawaiian sandalwood is a small to medium-sized tree or shrub that can grow up to 30 feet tall. It has thick, leathery, and dark green leaves that are shiny on the upper surface and dull on the lower surface. The flowers are tiny and white or yellowish, and the fruit is a small red or black drupe. The most distinctive feature of the plant, however, is its highly aromatic wood and bark, which have a unique and pleasant sandalwood scent.
Light Requirements
Santalum freycinetianum Gaud. var. lanaiense Rock requires partial to full sunlight exposure in order to grow and thrive. It prefers a half-day exposure to direct sunlight for optimal growth.
Temperature Requirements
Being native to Hawaii, the Santalum freycinetianum Gaud. var. lanaiense Rock prefers warm and humid climatic conditions. It thrives in a temperature range of 18-27°C (64-80°F). Extreme cold and frost conditions may damage the plant.
Soil Requirements
The Santalum freycinetianum Gaud. var. lanaiense Rock grows well in well-drained, nutrient-rich soils with a pH range that varies from slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (5.5 to 7.5). It prefers soils that are moderately moist, but not water-logged, as this may result in root rot. The plant has adapted to volcanic soils and prefers soils with good drainage and loamy texture.
Cultivation methods
When cultivating Santalum freycinetianum Gaud. var. lanaiense Rock, it is essential to create a suitable growing environment. The plant prefers well-draining soil with moderate fertility and full sunlight exposure. Propagation can be done by seeds, cuttings or grafting. The best time to plant the tree is during spring or the onset of summer. For optimal growth, the plants should be placed in raised beds or mounds.Watering needs
Santalum freycinetianum Gaud. var. lanaiense Rock has moderate water needs. Watering should be done at a frequency that keeps the soil moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plants. During the dry season, the soil should be sufficiently moist, although the frequency of watering should be reduced to prevent waterlogging.Fertilization
Fertilization is an essential aspect of Santalum freycinetianum Gaud. var. lanaiense Rock cultivation, as it promotes healthy growth and abundant flowering. A balanced fertilizer with equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium should be applied to the soil during the growing season. Application rates should be adjusted according to soil fertility and plant age.Pruning
Pruning is an essential practice that helps maintain the desired shape and size of the plant. When young, Santalum freycinetianum Gaud. var. lanaiense Rock should be pruned to maintain a single stem and encourage strong branching. Mature trees should be pruned to remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Pruning can also be done to thin out the canopy and control the tree's size. It is recommended to prune the plant during the dry season to minimize the risk of infection.Propagation of Santalum freycinetianum Gaud. var. lanaiense Rock
Santalum freycinetianum Gaud. var. lanaiense Rock, commonly known as Lanai sandalwood, is a small tree species endemic to the Hawaiian island of Lanai. Propagation of this species is possible through various methods including:
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating Lanai sandalwood is through seeds. The seeds of the plant are obtained from mature fruit capsules that have turned brown. The seeds should be cleaned of any pulp and soaked in water for 24 hours. The soaked seeds can be sown in well-draining soil and covered with a thin layer of soil. The pots should be kept in a warm and humid environment. The seedlings should emerge within three weeks, and they need to be watered regularly. However, seed propagation takes longer to produce mature trees.
Cuttings
Propagation through cuttings is a faster method of propagating Lanai sandalwood. The cuttings are taken from mature trees, preferably from the semi-hardwood sections of the plant. The cuttings should be 8 to 10 inches long and free from diseases. A rooting hormone should be applied to the cuttings before they are placed in a rooting tray filled with moistened soil. The tray should be kept in a warm and humid environment. The cuttings usually root within 4 to 6 weeks. The soil should be kept moist until the cuttings establish roots and begin to grow.
Air layering
Air layering is an alternative method of propagation that ensures that the new plant retains the characteristics of the mother plant. The method involves selecting a semi-hardwood section of a mature tree, making a wound and then covering the wound with moist rooting medium. The rooting medium should be kept moist, and roots should start to grow from the wound area after about a month. When the roots are long enough, the new plant can be cut from the mother plant and potted in well-draining soil.
Grafting
Grafting is another method of propagation of Lanai sandalwood. It requires a rootstock from the same species or a closely related species such as Santalum paniculatum. The rootstock should be 2-3 years old and grown from seed, and the scion should be from a mature tree. The scion should be grafted onto the rootstock using a sharp knife. The grafted plant should be kept in a moist and warm environment until the graft has taken hold. The new plant should then be potted in well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Santalum freycinetianum Gaud. var. lanaiense Rock
Santalum freycinetianum Gaud. var. lanaiense Rock, commonly known as Lanai sandalwood, is a small tree native to the Hawaiian Islands. Like any plant, it is susceptible to a number of diseases and pest infestations. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Phytophthora Root Rot
Phytophthora root rot is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects many plants, including Lanai sandalwood. It causes wilting, yellowing, and root death. To manage this disease, it is important to avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage. Fungicides that contain metalaxyl or mefenoxam can also be effective in controlling this disease.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes small, brown or black spots to appear on the leaves. In severe cases, the leaves can become distorted and fall off. To manage this disease, remove infected leaves and dispose of them in the trash. Fungicides containing copper or chlorothalonil can also be effective.
Scale Insects
Scale insects are common pests that can attack many plants, including Lanai sandalwood. They feed on sap and can cause yellowing, wilting, and stunted growth. To manage this pest, use a soft brush to remove them from the plant or prune heavily infested areas. Insecticidal soaps or oils can also be effective in controlling scale insects.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause severe damage to plants. They feed on the sap of the plant and can cause yellowing, wilting, and leaf drop. To manage this pest, introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings. Insecticidal soaps or oils can also be effective in controlling spider mites.
By being vigilant and taking prompt action against diseases and pests, it is possible to keep your Lanai sandalwood healthy and productive. Remember to always follow the instructions on any chemicals used and to regularly inspect your plant for signs of damage.
