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Description
Pseudognaphalium Sandwicensium, commonly known as Hawaiian cudweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the sunflower family. This plant is native to Hawaii and is found in the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and Molokai. The plant has a woody stem that can reach up to 30 centimeters in height. The leaves of the plant are oblong and can grow up to 3 centimeters in length. The plant produces small flowers that are yellow or white in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Pseudognaphalium |
| Species | Sandwicensium |
Appearance
Hawaiian cudweed has a woody stem that can grow up to 30 centimeters in height. Its leaves are oblong and can grow up to 3 centimeters in length. The plant produces small flowers that are yellow or white in color. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems. Hawaiian cudweed is a perennial plant that grows in clumps.
Care Guide
Water
Hawaiian cudweed requires regular watering. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant once a week or when the topsoil feels dry.
Fertilization
Fertilize Hawaiian cudweed once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Use a fertilizer that is low in nitrogen.
Soil
Hawaiian cudweed prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Sunlight
Hawaiian cudweed prefers full sun but can grow in partial shade. The plant requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Hawaiian cudweed can grow in USDA hardiness zones 10 and 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hawaiian cudweed is susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Hawaiian cudweed is native to Hawaii and is found in the islands of Kauai, Oahu, Maui, and Molokai. The plant grows in dry to wet forests, shrublands, and grasslands. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and pastures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hawaiian cudweed an invasive species?
A: No, Hawaiian cudweed is not considered an invasive species. It is a native plant to Hawaii.
Q: Can Hawaiian cudweed be grown indoors?
A: Hawaiian cudweed can be grown indoors in a sunny location. However, it prefers to grow outdoors in full sun.
Q: Can Hawaiian cudweed be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Hawaiian cudweed can be propagated from stem cuttings. Take a cutting from a healthy plant and plant it in moist soil. Keep the soil moist until the cutting has rooted.
Q: Can Hawaiian cudweed be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Hawaiian cudweed has been used for medicinal purposes in traditional Hawaiian medicine. It has been used to treat coughs, colds, and fevers.
Related Plants
- Pseudognaphalium californicum
- Pseudognaphalium luteo-album
- Pseudognaphalium macounii
References
- Wagner, W. L., Herbst, D. R., & Sohmer, S. H. (1999). Manual of the flowering plants of Hawai’i (Vol. 2). University of Hawaii Press.
- Wagner, W. L., & Lorence, D. H. (2011). Flora of the Hawaiian Islands: A description of their phytogeography, biogeography, and flowering plants. University of Hawaii Press.
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (2021). Plants profile for Pseudognaphalium Sandwicensium. Retrieved August 13, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=PSAN5
