Molokai ohaha (Brighamia rockii)

Also known as: Ālula, Rock's Brighamia

The Pua ʻala (Brighamia insignis) typically stands between 1 to 5 meters in height and features a succulent, tapering stem that resembles a small trunk. Its oval leaves, which measure 6 to 22 cm in length and 1 to 15 cm in width, create a rosette at the plant's apex. The inflorescences consist of clusters with three to eight fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that are white to pale yellow.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Molokai ohaha

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

Approximately 1 to 3 meters

Spread

Up to 1 meter

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2 to 3 centimeters

Flower Color

White

Images of Molokai ohaha

Quickly Identify Molokai ohaha

Succulent stem, swollen at base, tapers upwards to 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) tall.

Cluster of light green, leathery, spoon-shaped leaves, each about 6 inches (15 cm) long.

Notable 4-inch (10 cm) long trumpet-shaped white flowers in clusters of 3 to 8.

Mildly fragrant flowers typically bloom in late summer to early fall.

Scientific Classification of Molokai ohaha

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Bellflower

Genus

Brighamia

Species

Molokai ohaha

Planting and Growing of Molokai ohaha

Care Difficulty

Hard

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Molokai ohaha?

Brighamia rockii requires a moderate approach to watering. Ensure the soil is soaked thoroughly but not waterlogged, allowing excess moisture to drain out. The soil should remain moist but not continuously damp, which can encourage root rot. During active growth periods, increase the frequency slightly, ensuring the potting mix dries out partially between waterings.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Molokai ohaha? ›

What should I do if my Molokai ohaha is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Molokai ohaha? ›

How to save an overwatered Molokai ohaha? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Molokai ohaha?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full sun

Duration of light: 4 to 6 hours

Brighamia rockii ideally needs partial sun with some direct exposure, maximizing photosynthesis and vigor. Optimal lighting encourages robust growth and vibrant foliage colors, essential for its overall health.

How much daily sunlight is optimal? ›

Where should I place it for best growth? ›

What if natural light is insufficient? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Molokai ohaha?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Brighamia rockii is between 60-75°F. This range supports optimal photosynthesis and growth. Inside this range, the plant can efficiently carry out metabolic processes, making it ideal for both vegetative growth and flowering. Additionally, maintaining this temperature helps prevent stress-related diseases and disorders.

What Soil is Best for Molokai ohaha?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Brighamia rockii thrives in well-draining soils which prevent root rot by swiftly removing excess water. This soil type ensures the roots have air circulation, promoting healthy plant growth. Rich in nutrients, the ideal soil for Brighamia rockii supports robust growth and development. Adequate nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium keep the plant healthy and resilient. The soil should balance moisture retention to keep the roots hydrated without waterlogging them. This balance is crucial for maintaining the plant's hydration and preventing stress.

How to Fertilize Molokai ohaha?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Brighamia rockii requires balanced nutrients, so liquid fertilizer should be applied at a concentration of half the recommended strength on the packaging. It’s crucial to ensure the fertilizer is well-diluted to avoid any risk of over-fertilization.

How to Prune Molokai ohaha?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer, Autumn

First, assess your Brighamia rockii, identifying any dead or yellow leaves and spent flowers. Using sterilized pruning shears, carefully cut these off close to the base without damaging the stem. Make clean cuts to avoid infection and foster healthy regrowth. To maintain an attractive and tidy shape, observe the natural form of the plant and selectively prune areas that disrupt its symmetry. This often means trimming longer stems back to where they fork with another branch, promoting a fuller appearance. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Molokai ohaha plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Prepare a well-draining, sterile growing medium that is suitable for seed germination or cuttings. Mix equal parts of sand, perlite, and peat moss to create an ideal base. Make sure the medium is moistened but not waterlogged.

Scatter the seeds onto the prepared growing medium, lightly pressing them into the soil without covering them. Provide gentle misting of water to keep them moist. Place the seed tray in a warm location with indirect sunlight.

Select a healthy parent plant and use sanitized pruning shears to cut a stem at a 45-degree angle. The cutting should be 4-6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone before planting in the medium.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Molokai ohaha plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 1-2 years

Brighamia rockii should be repotted when its roots start to outgrow the current pot or if you notice the soil is retaining too much moisture. Typically, signs like roots growing out of the drainage holes or stunted growth indicate a need for repotting.

Choose a pot that is one size up from the current container. It should have adequate drainage holes to prevent water accumulation, which can lead to root rot. A ceramic or terracotta pot is ideal as it allows the roots to breathe and helps in regulating moisture.

Opt for a well-draining potting mix, ideally with a mix of perlite, sand, and quality potting soil. This prevents waterlogging and ensures that the roots have access to necessary air and nutrients, supporting healthy plant growth.