Contents
Description
Cheirodendron is a genus of flowering plants in the family of Ericaceae. It is a small tree or shrub found in the Pacific islands such as Hawaii, Fiji, and Samoa. It is also commonly known as ‘ōlapa, and the scientific name means “hand tree” in Greek. The plant can grow up to 30 feet tall, and its leaves are usually dark green, glossy, and elliptical in shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota||————|—————|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta|| Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Ericales|| Family| Ericaceae|| Genus| Cheirodendron |
Appearance
The plant’s leaves are a glossy dark green, and they are elliptical in shape. The flowers of the plant are small and white, and they often bloom in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit of the plant is a small capsule that contains numerous tiny seeds. The bark of the plant is often a light gray color and can be smooth or slightly rough.
Care Guide
Cheirodendron grows best in moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers to be planted in a location that receives partial to full sunlight. The plant needs to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season, to keep the soil consistently moist. It benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Cheirodendron is hardy in zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cheirodendron is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Scale insects, mites, and mealybugs can all infest the plant, causing damage to the leaves and branches. The plant may also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. Regular inspection and treatment with appropriate pesticides can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
Cheirodendron is native to the Pacific islands, including Hawaii, Fiji, and Samoa. It grows in a variety of habitats, including wet and dry forests, and can often be found at higher elevations. The plant is also grown as an ornamental tree or shrub in gardens and parks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cheirodendron poisonous?
A: No, Cheirodendron is not toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Cheirodendron grow indoors?
A: While Cheirodendron can grow indoors, it prefers to be planted outdoors in a location that receives partial to full sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Cheirodendron?
A: Cheirodendron benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer, applied every three to four months during the growing season.
Q: Can Cheirodendron tolerate frost?
A: Cheirodendron is not frost-tolerant and should be grown in zones 9 to 11.
Related Plants
– Vaccinium- Rhododendron- Kalmia- Andromeda- Leucothoe
References
– “Cheirodendron.” Flora of the Hawaiian Islands. University of Hawaii Press, 1999.- “Cheirodendron.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/- “Cheirodendron.” PlantFiles. Dave’s Garden. https://davesgarden.com/
