Contents
Description
Dubautia Scabra, commonly known as the Hawaiian silversword, is a unique and stunning plant species endemic to Hawaii. This perennial herb is part of the Asteraceae family and is characterized by its silver-green leaves and bright yellow flowers. The plant is found in high-elevation areas of Hawaii, specifically on the islands of Maui and Hawaii (the Big Island).
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Dubautia |
Appearance
Dubautia Scabra is a medium-sized plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. Its leaves are long and narrow, measuring up to 12 inches in length, and are covered in fine white hairs that give them a silvery appearance. The plant’s flowers are bright yellow and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers bloom in late summer and early fall and attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Dubautia Scabra is a relatively easy plant to care for, as long as its specific needs are met. Here are some tips for caring for this unique plant:- Water: The Hawaiian silversword requires moderate watering. It should be watered deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: The plant should be fertilized sparingly, using a balanced fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite works well.- Sunlight: The Hawaiian silversword needs full sun to thrive. It should be planted in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Dubautia Scabra is hardy in USDA zones 10 and above.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hawaiian silversword is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in soil that is too moist. To prevent this, make sure to plant the Dubautia Scabra in well-draining soil and water it sparingly.
Habitat
Dubautia Scabra is found in high-elevation areas of Hawaii, specifically on the islands of Maui and Hawaii. The plant is typically found in subalpine shrublands and is often found growing alongside other native Hawaiian plants, such as the ‘ōhi‘a lehua tree (Metrosideros polymorpha) and the mamane tree (Sophora chrysophylla).
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dubautia Scabra be grown outside of Hawaii?
A: While Dubautia Scabra is endemic to Hawaii, it can be grown in other warm, sunny areas with well-draining soil.
Q: Is the Hawaiian silversword endangered?
A: Yes, Dubautia Scabra is considered a threatened species due to habitat loss and introduced pests.
Q: Can the Hawaiian silversword be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Dubautia Scabra can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring.
Q: What is the meaning behind the name “Dubautia Scabra”?
A: The genus name “Dubautia” honors French botanist Florent Dubaut, while the species name “Scabra” refers to the plant’s rough, scabrous leaves.
Related Plants
Here are some other plant species that are related to Dubautia Scabra:- Dubautia latifolia (broadleaf silversword)- Dubautia pauciflorula (few-flowered silversword)- Dubautia plantaginea (Hawaiian plantain)- Dubautia raillardioides (silversword tree)
References
– “Dubautia scabra.” Hawaiian Silversword Alliance, www.hawaiiansilversword.org/dubautia-scabra.- “Dubautia scabra.” United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=DUSC.- “Plant Guide for Dubautia scabra.” United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service, plants.usda.gov/plantguide/pdf/pg_dusc.pdf.
