Contents
Description
Chenopodium oahuense, also known as Oahu goosefoot, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Amaranthaceae. It is native to the Hawaiian Islands, specifically Oahu, and is commonly found in dry or rocky areas. The plant can grow up to three feet tall and has a stout stem that is covered in small hairs. The leaves are triangular in shape, with a glossy green color and a slightly toothed margin. The flowers are small and greenish-white, and are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. The plant is dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are produced on separate plants.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Chenopodium |
| Species | Chenopodium oahuense |
Appearance
Chenopodium oahuense is a herbaceous plant that can grow up to three feet in height. Its stem is stout and covered in small hairs, and its leaves are triangular in shape with a glossy green color and a slightly toothed margin. The flowers are small and greenish-white, and are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. The plant has a deep taproot that allows it to survive in dry or rocky areas. It is also able to tolerate salt spray and strong winds.
Care Guide
Chenopodium oahuense is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It is able to grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate drought conditions. Here are some care tips for growing Chenopodium oahuense:Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.Fertilization: Chenopodium oahuense does not require regular fertilization. However, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring to promote growth.Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-drained soils. Avoid soils that are too wet or compacted.Sunlight: Chenopodium oahuense prefers full sunlight, but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chenopodium oahuense is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, or whiteflies. To prevent these pests, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly-drained soil.
Habitat
Chenopodium oahuense is native to the Hawaiian Islands, specifically Oahu. It is commonly found in dry or rocky areas, and can also grow in sandy or loamy soils. The plant can tolerate salt spray and strong winds, making it well-suited to coastal environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Chenopodium oahuense a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Chenopodium oahuense is a perennial plant.Q: Can Chenopodium oahuense grow in full shade?
A: While Chenopodium oahuense prefers full sunlight, it can tolerate partial shade.Q: How often should I water Chenopodium oahuense?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Chenopodium oahuense?
A: Chenopodium oahuense is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Chenopodium oahuense:
- Chenopodium album
- Chenopodium berlandieri
- Chenopodium quinoa
- Chenopodium rubrum
References
- “Chenopodium oahuense.” Flora of Hawaii. University of Hawaii at Manoa. Accessed 30 April 2021. https://www.botany.hawaii.edu/faculty/carr/ofp/che_oah.htm
- “Chenopodium oahuense.” Pacific Island Ecosystems at Risk (PIER). Accessed 30 April 2021. https://www.hear.org/pier/species/chenopodium_oahuense.htm
- “Chenopodium oahuense.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 30 April 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CHOA11
