Contents
Description
Rubus Kawakamii, commonly known as the Hawaiian raspberry, is a species of flowering plant in the rose family, Rosaceae. It is a shrub that grows up to 3 meters tall and is endemic to Hawaii. The plant produces edible red berries that are sweet and tangy in taste. Its leaves are green and have a rough texture, and its stems are covered with thorns. The Hawaiian raspberry is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance and fruit production.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Rubus |
Appearance
The Hawaiian raspberry has green leaves that are palmately compound, consisting of 3-5 leaflets. The leaflets are oval in shape and have saw-toothed edges. The plant produces white flowers that bloom in the summer months and give way to the red berries. The berries are round and have a diameter of 1-2 centimeters. The fruit is covered with tiny hairs and contains numerous small seeds.
Care Guide
The Hawaiian raspberry requires well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It prefers full sun and regular watering, but can tolerate some drought. Fertilization should be done in the spring and fall with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 10-11 and can be grown in containers or in the ground.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hawaiian raspberry is susceptible to fungal diseases such as gray mold and powdery mildew. It can also be affected by bacterial diseases such as fire blight. Common pests that affect the plant include spider mites and aphids. Regular inspection and treatment with appropriate pesticides can help prevent these issues.
Habitat
The Hawaiian raspberry is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and can be found growing in forests, along roadsides, and in gardens. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can grow in both sunny and shaded areas. The plant is often grown for its ornamental value and fruit production.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Hawaiian raspberry be grown in colder climates?
A: No, the Hawaiian raspberry is only hardy in USDA zones 10-11 and cannot tolerate frost or freezing temperatures.
Q: How often should I water my Hawaiian raspberry?
A: The plant prefers regular watering, but can tolerate some drought. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
Q: How do I propagate my Hawaiian raspberry?
A: The plant can be propagated by stem cuttings or by layering. Take a stem cutting in the spring or fall and plant it in well-draining soil. Layering involves bending a stem to the ground and covering it with soil to encourage rooting.
Q: How long does it take for the Hawaiian raspberry to produce fruit?
A: The plant typically produces fruit in the summer months, about 1-2 years after planting.
Related Plants
- Rubus hawaiensis
- Rubus macraei
- Rubus rosifolius
References
- “Rubus Kawakamii.” Plantz Africa. http://pza.sanbi.org/rubus-kawakamii
- “Rubus Kawakamii.” University of Hawaii at Manoa. https://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/oc/freepubs/pdf/F_N-15.pdf
- “Rubus Kawakamii.” Hawaiian Ecosystems at Risk Project. https://www.hear.org/species/rubus_kawakamii/
