Pittosporum hosmeri, also referred to as Kona cheesewood, ʻaʻawa, or ʻaʻawa hua kukui, is a cheesewood endemic to the island of Hawai'i. It is a species of tree in the Pittosporaceae family. This species is listed as endangered and are endemic to the islands. Like other members of the genus native to Hawai'i, it is also referred to as Hō'awa or Hāʻawa in the Hawaiian language.
Kona cheesewood is fairly resistant to disease and generally not susceptible to illnesses. In terms of 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 bloomed. Kona cheesewoodt is appropriate for anyone with an outdoor area, such as a garden or deck, and does not demand much care experience.
How to keep Pittosporum Hosmeri.
Light
Kona cheesewood naturally occurs in habitats like forest understories or rocky areas, where it grows in natural shade. It prefers partial sun but can tolerate full sun or full shade, reflecting its adaptable, hardy nature.
Water
Kona cheesewood requires regular watering during the spring and summer, but be careful not to over-water. For newly planted kona cheesewood, water it 3 to 4 times per week for the first two months. After that, you can reduce the watering frequency to once a week. In winter, limit the amount of water the plant receives.
Temperature
Kona cheesewood has good temperature adaptability, able to endure higher heat and larger temperature swings. In hot weather, attention should be paid to watering and providing proper shade to avoid sunburn. On the other hand, Kona cheesewood is relatively sensitive to low temperatures. While it can tolerate some cold, excessively low temperatures can result in frost damage.
Fertilizer
The timing of fertilizing Kona cheesewood is important. Apply fertilizer in early spring and continue monthly through early summer. Fertilizer promotes attractive blooms and supplies energy during both dormant and active growth phases.
Pruning
Pruning Kona cheesewood in early spring encourages growth and helps maintain its shape. Begin by removing any dead branches, then thin the plant to improve airflow. Regularly trim any overgrown shoots to control its size, keeping in mind its growth cycle. This promotes vigorous new growth and enhances the plant's overall health.
Botanical profile.
- Plant Type
- Tree
- Life Cycle
- Perennial
- Genus
- Pittosporum
- Family
- Pittosporaceae
- Hardiness Zone
- 9-11
- Mature Height
- 3.96 m to 7.92 m
- Mature Spread
- 3.05 m to 4.88 m
- Leaf Color
- Dark Green, Olive Drab
- Leaf Type
- Evergreen
- Flower Color
- White
- Flower Size
- 1.02 cm to 1.52 cm
- Bloom Time
- Early spring, Mid spring
- Planting Time
- Spring, Summer, Autumn
- Harvest Time
- Early summer, Mid summer
Other names.
