Myoporum sandwicense, commonly known as naio, bastard sandalwood or false sandalwood is a species of flowering plant in the figwort family, Scrophulariaceae. It is a tree or shrub highly variable in its form, the size and shape of its leaves, in the number of flowers in a group and in the shape of its fruit. It is endemic to Hawaiʻi.
Naio is highly resistant to disease and generally not susceptible to illnesses. Regarding care, this plant is fairly low maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs little watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be pruned after they have finished blooming. Naiot is suitable for anyone with outdoor space, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand much care experience.
How to keep Myoporum Sandwicense.
Light
Naio comes from open habitats, like sunny meadows and forest margins, which offer plenty of light. It does best in Full Sun but can also tolerate Partial Sun, adapting well to a range of sunlight conditions.
Temperature
Naio comes from tropical areas, where the climate is generally warm and humid. As such, it is well suited to high temperatures and humidity. It is sensitive to sudden temperature shifts and prefers a stable thermal environment, so avoiding temperature fluctuations indoors is important. It usually cannot tolerate cold and requires warmer conditions to grow. If the temperature falls too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.
Fertilizer
Fertilizing is essential for caring for Naio. Consistent feeding during the growing season helps maintain the energy for its showy foliage and supports overall growth. Failing to fertilize can lead to unhealthy leaves, reduced ornamental appeal, and stunted or fragile growth that is prone to breaking.
Pruning
For optimal health, Naio should be pruned annually in early spring. This process involves removing any dead or diseased branches and thinning out dense areas to improve airflow. Proper pruning helps maintain the plant's shape and supports healthy growth. It's important to avoid over-pruning, as this can stress the plant. By pruning carefully, you can enhance both the plant's resilience and its aesthetic appeal.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree, Shrub
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Myoporum
- Family
- Scrophulariaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 2.13 m to 3.96 m
- Mature Spread
- 2.13 m to 3.05 m
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Size
- 0.51 cm to 1.02 cm
- Bloom Time
- All year round
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- All year round
Other names.
