Portulaca Molokiniensis: An endangered plant.

Portulaca molokiniensis, also known as ‘ihi, is a unique and eye-catching succulent plant native to the Hawaiian Islands. As an endemic species with a limited natural habitat, it is listed as an endangered plant, making it a rare and valuable addition to any succulent collection. Boasting an unusual growth pattern, the plant consists of rounded, pale green leaves spaced closely along its upright, corky stems. When properly cared for, this succulent can reach up to 18 inches tall and form a clump up to 20 inches in diameter.

Discovered by Hawaiian forester Bob Hobdy on the island of Maui, the Portulaca molokiniensis is mostly found in select coastal areas around the Hawaiian Islands. While it is an endangered species in the wild, this plant can be cultivated and propagated for use as a decorative element in personal gardens or as a stunning indoor plant. When grown from seeds, it’s possible for the plant to develop a distinctive caudex, providing a unique addition to any collection.

Key Takeaways

Portulaca molokiniensis is a rare endangered succulent endemic to the Hawaiian Islands
The plant has an unusual growth pattern with rounded leaves along its upright stems, reaching up to 18 inches tall
Discovered on Maui, it can be cultivated and propagated for use in personal gardens and as an indoor plant

Description and Appearance

Portulaca molokiniensis is a unique succulent native to the Hawaiian Islands. It is known for its distinct growth habit and interesting foliage. The plant forms a small shrub, growing up to 18 inches (45 cm) tall and 20 inches (50 cm) in diameter. The numerous stems branch at or below the soil line to create a dense, compact structure.

The stems of this succulent are quite robust, with a thickness similar to a cigar – up to 0.8 inches (2 cm) in diameter. They have an upright growth habit, displaying pale green leaves arranged in four rows towards the tips of the stems. The foliage offers a striking contrast against the corky stems, adding to the plant’s visual appeal.

One of the most noteworthy features of Portulaca molokiniensis is its delicate, cup-shaped yellow flowers. These small blooms, found at the tips of the sturdy stems, come in varying shades of yellow and make for an attractive sight. Their unique formation and color add to the overall appeal and charm of the plant.

Although Portulaca molokiniensis is a hardy and low-maintenance plant, it can still be susceptible to leaf infections if not cared for properly. To ensure its healthy growth and maintain its distinctive appearance, it’s essential to provide the plant with an appropriate environment, including well-draining soil and ample sunlight.

In summary, Portulaca molokiniensis is a remarkable succulent with an enticing combination of pale green foliage, corky stems, and small, cup-shaped yellow flowers. Its unique appearance and hardy nature make it an excellent choice for succulent enthusiasts looking to add a touch of Hawaiian charm to their collections.

Habitat and Geography

Portulaca molokiniensis, commonly known as ‘ihi, is a rare succulent native to Hawaii. It is primarily found in a few select locations within the Hawaiian Islands, such as Molokini, Puʻukoaʻe Islet, and Kamōhio Bay in Kahoʻolawe [4].

This unique plant thrives in arid islets and coastal areas. Its preferred habitat includes steep rocky slopes, the base of sea cliffs, and leeward parts of the islands. Portulaca molokiniensis can grow in a range of elevations, from about 30 to about 375 feet, depending on the specific location.

One of the defining features of this plant’s habitat is the type of soil it grows in. Portulaca molokiniensis is known to grow in volcanic tuff, which consists of compressed volcanic ash, and detritus at the base of sea cliffs [4]. The plant also thrives in loose volcanic scree, which are small, loose rocks that accumulate on the slopes.

In summary, Portulaca molokiniensis is a succulent native to Hawaii that grows in a limited number of coastal locations, specifically on arid islets, steep rocky slopes, and at the base of sea cliffs where it can find volcanic tuff and loose volcanic scree as its ideal soil foundation.

Cultivation and Care

Portulaca Molokiniensis, also known as the Petal Leaf succulent, is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in hot, dry climates. Its compact, bonsai-like appearance makes it a great choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners looking to add a touch of color and natural beauty to their outdoor or indoor spaces.

Light

To ensure the healthy growth of your Portulaca Molokiniensis, provide it with plenty of sunlight. Ideally, place it in a south-facing room (for those in the northern hemisphere) on a window sill, where the succulent can receive enough sunlight. This adaptable plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade, but a sunny environment is best for optimal growth.

Soil

When it comes to soil requirements, Portulaca Molokiniensis prefers well-drained sandy soil with a pH level of 5.5-7.0. Proper drainage is crucial for preventing root rot and ensuring the overall health of the plant. To further improve drainage, you can mix perlite or coarse sand into your potting mix.

Water

In terms of watering, like most succulents, Portulaca Molokiniensis has low moisture needs. Allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between watering, which encourages strong root development. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to adjust your watering habits according to the season and the plant’s needs.

As a heat tolerant plant, Portulaca Molokiniensis thrives in temperatures between 15-28°C (59-82°F). It loves hot weather conditions, but is susceptible to cold temperatures, making it important to protect your plant in cooler climates. This succulent cannot tolerate temperatures below 25°F, so bring it indoors if necessary during colder months. Fertilizing is also not a necessity, but if desired, a diluted liquid fertilizer can be applied during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.

Finally, Portulaca Molokiniensis can be propagated through stem cuttings. Simply take a cutting from a healthy plant and let it dry for a few days, before planting it in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide adequate sunlight until the cutting establishes a strong root system.

By following these guidelines, your Portulaca Molokiniensis will grow and thrive, adding an attractive touch to your garden or home.

Potting and Propagation

Portulaca molokiniensis is an unusual-looking succulent native to Hawaii. It can be easily cultivated in pots as indoor plants, where their growth remains small and manageable. To ensure proper potting, choosing a container with drainage holes is essential to prevent overwatering, as these succulents require well-draining soil for optimal growth.

Potting

A mix of coarse sand, perlite, mineral grit, and pumice can be added to standard potting soil to provide the right environment for growth. These components help create a well-draining soil mixture that allows water to pass through quickly, preventing root rot. It is also beneficial to repot your Portulaca molokiniensis every two to three years, ensuring the plant’s health and encouraging new growth.

Propagating Portulaca molokiniensis is relatively easy, as it can be done via cutting, seeds, and division. When cutting cuttings, ensure that your cutting tool is clean to avoid transferring diseases. Allow the cut surface to dry for a day or two before placing the cutting into a pot with a well-draining soil mixture. Keep the pot in a brightly lit area and maintain consistent moisture levels without overwatering.

Propogation

Apart from cuttings, you can also propagate Portulaca molokiniensis from seeds. To do this, spread the seeds evenly over the surface of a well-draining soil mixture, adding a thin layer of soil on top. Keep the soil consistently moist, and soon you will witness the emergence of new seedlings. Finally, propagation through division is another viable method. When repotting your plant, gently divide the clump, careful not to damage the roots. Each division can be placed into separate pots, ready to grow as individual plants.

In conclusion, Portulaca molokiniensis is a versatile and hardy succulent that can thrive in various potting and propagation methods. By providing the appropriate conditions, you can enjoy the unique beauty of this plant in your indoor space.

Growth and Development

Portulaca molokiniensis is a rare succulent native to the Hawaiian Islands, specifically found in areas with loose volcanic scree on steep slopes, and in sand near the seaside on arid islets such as Molokini, Pu’ukoa’e, and Kanhio Bay on Kaho’olawe off the west coast of Maui (source). This unique plant is characterized by its dense shrub formation, with upright growing stems and branches that are about 1 inch in diameter (source).

The stems of the Portulaca molokiniensis grow fairly close together, forming dense clusters that contribute to the overall appearance of a compact shrub. The plant can typically reach a height of about 12 inches (source). The leaves of this succulent are distinctive, featuring a rounded shape and arranged in straight rows, with up to four rows on each stem (source).

When cultivating Portulaca molokiniensis, it is essential to provide the plant with full sunlight, as its natural habitat consists of arid, sun-soaked areas (source). The growth rate of this plant might vary depending on the environmental conditions, but it tends to grow relatively faster in optimal light exposure and well-draining soil.

In summary, Portulaca molokiniensis exhibits a dense shrub growth pattern, with upright branches and stems lined with rounded leaves. The plant thrives in full sunlight and originates from volcanic scree and sandy environments in specific regions of the Hawaiian Islands.

Potential Problems

Portulaca molokiniensis is generally a low-maintenance and resilient plant, but it can face a few issues that may negatively impact its health and appearance. As a responsible plant owner, being aware of these potential problems can help you address them promptly and effectively.

One issue that can affect Portulaca molokiniensis is the development of gray mold. This is a common fungal disease that may cause adverse effects on most parts of the plant except for the root system. The presence of gray mold can be identified by the appearance of pale gray or silvery spots on the leaves.

Another concern for this succulent is the appearance of brown spots during its growth. This can result in irregular disease spots on its branches and leaves, which may eventually turn black, shed, wither, and die. To mitigate this issue, it is best to cut off the blackened leaves in a timely manner and apply an appropriate insecticide to prevent further damage.

While Portulaca molokiniensis is known to be vigorous in growth and capable of spreading quickly when planted outdoors, this characteristic can present a challenge if you want to manage its proliferation in a garden bed. Proper pruning and repositioning of the plants can help control its spread to some extent.

Lastly, keeping an eye on the environment that the plant is growing in is essential for its overall wellbeing. Portulaca molokiniensis typically thrives in loose volcanic scree and sandy soils on steep slopes or near the seaside, as seen in its natural habitat in Hawaii. Ensuring that its growing conditions closely mimic its native environment can go a long way in avoiding potential problems associated with inappropriate soil, drainage, or exposure to sunlight.

Seed and Fruit Characteristics

Portulaca molokiniensis is a unique succulent plant endemic to Hawaii. This plant is known for its small yellow, cup-shaped flowers that arise from the leaf rosette center¹. The flowers grow on thick stalks and provide the plant its decorative appearance.

The seeds of Portulaca molokiniensis are tiny and typically found within capsules that form after the flowers have bloomed². These capsules are corky in texture, providing protection to the seeds inside until they are ready to disperse. The seeds themselves can range in color from pale to dark shades of green, often appearing darker closer to the tips of the branches³.

When it comes to propagation, Portulaca molokiniensis is quite easy to grow from seeds⁴. It has a tendency to self-seed and can spread quickly when planted in outdoor beds. The seeds can be sown directly into the soil or started in containers to get a head start on the growing season. As a succulent, it thrives in well-draining soil and requires moderate water levels, making it an excellent choice for low-maintenance gardening⁵.

In addition to seed propagation, Portulaca molokiniensis can also be propagated through stem cuttings⁶. This method involves taking a healthy stem, allowing it to callous for a few days, and then placing it directly into the soil. Once established, this succulent plant will form clumps and spread as it matures, making it an attractive addition to any garden or indoor planting arrangement.

References

Portulaca molokiniensis, also known as ‘ihi, is a unique and endangered succulent plant native to Hawaii¹. Endemic to the region, its striking appearance sets it apart from other succulents. The plant has multiple stems and branches that clump together, forming a dense shrub capable of reaching up to 18 inches in height⁴.

Closely related to Portulaca lutea, Portulaca molokiniensis likely derived from its counterpart³. The main differences between the two species lie in their vegetative growth, leaf size, and flowers. Notably, Portulaca molokiniensis features dense, headlike clusters of flowers and spinose seeds³.

Charles N. Forbes, a botanist who greatly contributed to Hawaiian plant studies in the early 20th century, played a crucial role in discovering and documenting various Portulaca species, including Portulaca molokiniensis⁵. His work laid the foundation for further investigation and understanding of these unique plants.

In terms of cultivation, Portulaca molokiniensis is well-suited for pot growth indoors². When maintained in a contained environment, the plant will grow upward and taller instead of spreading outwards². It is important to note that this species is federally listed as endangered¹, so ensuring proper care and propagation is essential for its conservation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you care for Portulaca succulents?

Caring for Portulaca succulents, such as Portulaca Molokiniensis, involves providing well-draining soil, ample sunlight, and moderate watering. They thrive in a mixture of potting soil, perlite, and coarse sand to ensure proper drainage. Place them in a location where they can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Water them only when the soil is completely dry to avoid over-watering and root rot.

Is Portulaca a perennial?

Yes, Portulaca plants are generally considered perennials. They can survive for more than two years, although some species may behave as annuals in colder climates.

Is Portulaca Molokiniensis a succulent?

Yes, Portulaca Molokiniensis is a succulent native to the Hawaiian islands. It has thick, fleshy leaves that store water, allowing the plant to survive in arid environments.

How does one propagate Portulaca Molokiniensis?

Propagating Portulaca Molokiniensis can be done through stem cuttings or seeds. For stem cuttings, snip a healthy stem and let it dry for a day or two to form a callus. Afterward, plant the stem cutting in well-draining soil and water sparingly until new growth appears. To propagate from seeds, sow them in a mix of well-draining soil and keep the soil slightly moist until the seeds germinate.

What is the endangered status of Portulaca Molokiniensis?

Portulaca Molokiniensis is considered rare and endangered in its native habitat of Hawaii. It grows in select coastal areas and the arid islets of Molokini and Pu’ukoa’e, making it vulnerable due to limited distribution and habitat threats.

Does Portulaca Molokiniensis experience dormancy?

Portulaca Molokiniensis may experience a period of dormancy during the colder months or when exposed to extreme temperatures. In this state, the plant’s growth slows down, and it requires less water and sunlight. Ensure that the plant’s surroundings stay dry and relatively cool, and reduce watering frequency to avoid over-watering and potential fungal diseases.