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Description
Myrsine Sandwicensis, commonly known as ōlapa or kolea, is a small tree or shrub that belongs to the Primulaceae family. It is native to Hawaii and can be found in dry to mesic forests, lava fields, and coastal areas. The plant has small, shiny, and oval-shaped leaves that are bright green in color. It produces small, white flowers that bloom between May and August, which are followed by black or red berries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Genus | Myrsine |
Appearance
Myrsine Sandwicensis can grow up to 15 feet tall, but usually, it is found as a small tree or shrub. It has a rounded shape and a dense, branching habit. The plant has small, oval-shaped leaves that are bright green in color and shiny. The leaves are about 0.5 to 3 inches long and 0.25 to 1.5 inches wide. The plant produces small, white flowers that are about 0.2 inches in diameter. The flowers bloom between May and August and are followed by small, black, or red berries that are about 0.2 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
Myrsine Sandwicensis is an easy-to-care-for plant. It can be grown in a variety of soil types and is tolerant of drought, salt spray, and wind. However, it prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but it grows best in partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Water: Water the plant regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during the growing season. Reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Use a slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer every two weeks.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Myrsine Sandwicensis can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but it grows best in partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Myrsine Sandwicensis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. The plant can also be affected by leaf spot and root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Myrsine Sandwicensis is native to Hawaii and can be found in dry to mesic forests, lava fields, and coastal areas. The plant is an important component of the native Hawaiian ecosystem and provides food and shelter for birds and other wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Myrsine Sandwicensis a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Myrsine Sandwicensis is an excellent plant for landscaping. It is easy to care for and can be used as a specimen plant, hedge, or border plant.
Q: How often should I fertilize Myrsine Sandwicensis?
A: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Use a slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer every two weeks.
Q: Can Myrsine Sandwicensis tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Myrsine Sandwicensis is tolerant of drought, salt spray, and wind.
Q: What is the best soil type for Myrsine Sandwicensis?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Related Plants
- Myrsine Linearifolia
- Myrsine Lessertiana
- Myrsine Sandwicensis var. Auwahiensis
- Myrsine Kauaiensis
References
- Bishop Museum. (n.d.). Myrsine sandwicensis. Retrieved from https://hbs.bishopmuseum.org/endangered/endangered.html
- Hawaii Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Myrsine sandwicensis. Retrieved from https://www.hawaiiplants.org/plant/view/Myrsine_sandwicensis
- University of Hawaii at Manoa. (n.d.). Myrsine sandwicensis. Retrieved from https://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/forestry/trees/CommonTreesHI/CFT_Myrsine_sandwicensis.pdf
