My Garden

Species

Kuhi'aikamo'owahie

Lobelia hypoleuca

Lobelia hypoleuca, commonly known as Kuhi Kuhi, is an endemic Hawaiian woody shrub belonging to the Campanulaceae family. It is distinct from the more common garden annual lobelias. This striking plant features large, lance-shaped leaves and produces tall, upright spikes of small, two-lipped flowers that are typically white to pale blue or lavender, often with purple veining. Found naturally in moist to wet forests and mesic areas at various elevations across the Hawaiian islands, it is an important component of native ecosystems. Its architectural form and unique floral structure contribute to the biodiversity of the Hawaiian Lobelioid lineage. While beautiful, like many Lobelia species, it contains alkaloids and is considered toxic if ingested.

	Category	Details
	Plant Type	Perennial plant
	Estimated Plant Lifespan	10 years lifespan
	Toxic to humans	Toxic to humans
	Toxicity	Toxic to: Dogs, Cats, Horses, Cattle, Goats, Sheep
	Sun Requirements	2-4 hours direct sunlight (Partial Shade)
	Pollination	Method: animal Notes: Lobelia hypoleuca is primarily pollinated by insects, particularly native bees and moths, which are attracted to its nectar and flower structure. Some species of Hawaiian birds might also contribute to pollination. No specific manual pollination by humans is typically required for fruit set in cultivation, though controlled pollination could be performed for breeding purposes.
	Watering Requirements	Method: Top watering Frequency: Keep constantly moist Notes: This plant thrives in consistently moist but well-draining soil, mimicking its native wet forest habitat. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, but also ensure excellent drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot.
	Humidity Requirements	Level: high Maintenance: Regular misting, grouping with other plants, humidity tray, or placement in a naturally humid environment like a greenhouse or terrarium. Its native habitat provides naturally high humidity.
	Care Instructions	Lobelia hypoleuca requires a stable, high-humidity environment and protection from strong, drying winds. Maintain consistently moist soil without waterlogging. Provide filtered light or partial shade, as direct, intense sun can scorch its leaves. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues. While a woody shrub, its leaves are delicate and should be handled with care to avoid bruising or tearing. Pruning can be done to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth, removing any dead or damaged foliage.
	Temperature Range	Min: 15°C Max: 28°C
	Alternative Names	mo'o wahie

hāpu‘u pulu

Cibotium glaucum

Hapu'u ferns are native Hawaiian tree ferns that thrive in similar moist, shaded forest understories. Their large fronds help to maintain ambient humidity and provide dappled shade, mimicking the natural habitat of Lobelia hypoleuca and creating a stable microclimate.

ʻŌhiʻa Lehua

Metrosideros polymorpha

Ohia Lehua is a dominant native Hawaiian tree often found in the same wet forest ecosystems as Lobelia hypoleuca. Planting near Ohia Lehua provides a natural canopy, offering filtered light and protection from strong winds, essential for the well-being of the understory Kuhi Kuhi.

Koa

Acacia koa

Koa trees are another prominent native Hawaiian forest species. As they mature, they provide excellent dappled shade, which is ideal for Lobelia hypoleuca, protecting it from intense direct sun while allowing sufficient light for growth. Koa also contributes to the forest floor ecosystem, enhancing soil health.

'ie'ie

Freycinetia arborea

Ie'ie is a native Hawaiian climbing liana that, while beautiful, can grow vigorously over other vegetation in dense forest environments. It might compete with Lobelia hypoleuca for available light by overgrowing and shading out the shrub, especially in areas with limited canopy opening.

Aphids

Aphids are small, sap-sucking insects that cluster on new growth, stems, and the undersides of leaves. Infested plants may exhibit distorted or stunted new growth, yellowing leaves, and a sticky residue (honeydew), which can lead to sooty mold.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny arachnids that feed on plant sap, causing stippling (tiny dots) on leaves, discoloration, and sometimes fine webbing on the undersides of leaves or between stems. Severe infestations can lead to leaf drop and overall plant decline.

Slugs and Snails

These mollusks feed on foliage, leaving irregular holes and a shiny, silvery trail on leaves and stems. Young plants or tender new growth of Lobelia hypoleuca are particularly vulnerable to damage.

Steps:

- Select healthy, non-flowering semi-hardwood stems, about 4-6 inches long, from a mature plant.
- Remove leaves from the bottom half of the cutting to expose nodes.
- Make a clean cut just below a node.
- Dip the cut end into a rooting hormone powder or gel to encourage root development.
- Prepare a well-draining potting mix, such as a blend of perlite and peat or coco coir.
- Insert the cuttings into the moistened potting mix, ensuring at least one node is buried.
- Place the potted cuttings in a warm, humid environment, ideally with bright, indirect light.
- Cover with a plastic bag or dome to maintain humidity, ensuring some ventilation to prevent fungal issues.
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Roots typically develop within 4-8 weeks. Gently tug on the cutting to check for resistance.
- Once well-rooted, transplant the young Lobelia hypoleuca plants into larger pots or their permanent location.

Neem Oil Spray

An effective natural insecticide and fungicide that can deter common pests like aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, and help manage fungal issues.

Compost

Incorporating well-rotted compost into the soil enriches it with organic matter, improves drainage and water retention, and provides a slow release of essential nutrients for healthy plant growth.

Fish Emulsion Fertilizer

A natural, balanced liquid fertilizer derived from fish, providing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, along with micronutrients. It promotes robust growth and overall plant vigor when used during the growing season.

Slug and Snail Bait (Iron Phosphate based)

An environmentally friendly bait that targets slugs and snails without harming pets or wildlife. It causes slugs and snails to stop feeding and die.

Learn More

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