Beach cabbage

Description

Scaevola sericea, or Scaevola taccada, commonly known as beach naupaka or naupaka kahakai, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Goodeniaceae. This plant is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Pacific, including Hawaii, Australia, and Southeast Asia. Beach naupaka is a hardy plant that grows in sandy beaches, rocky shores, and coastal dunes. It is also known for its medicinal properties and has been used for traditional medicine in some cultures. Taxonomy and nomenclature The genus name Scaevola comes from the Latin word scaevus, which means left-handed, referring to the asymmetrical shape of the flower. The specific epithet taccada is derived from the Maldivian name for the plant. The plant is commonly known as beach naupaka or naupaka kahakai in Hawaii, and locally known as fanapi in the Marshall Islands, kembang bulan in Indonesia, and lakatua in Fiji. Description Scaevola taccada is a sprawling evergreen shrub that can grow up to 5 meters in height. It has thick, succulent, and dark green leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem. The leaves are simple, elliptical or oblong in shape, and have smooth margins. The plant produces fragrant flowers that are small and white, with a distinctive half-circle shape. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the end of the stems, and they bloom year-round. The fruit is a small, round, fleshy, and green berry that turns yellow when mature. Distribution and habitat Scaevola taccada is a coastal plant species that is native to the tropical and subtropical regions of the Indo-Pacific, including Asia, Australia, Polynesia, Melanesia, and Micronesia. It is found along sandy beaches, sand dunes, and rocky coasts, where it is often the dominant plant species. The plant can tolerate salt spray and is adapted to harsh coastal conditions. Scaevola taccada is typically found at low elevations, but can grow up to 400 meters (1,300 feet) above sea level in some areas. It prefers well-drained sandy soils and can also grow on coral rubble and rocky substrates. The plant is found in a variety of coastal habitats, including mangroves, beach scrub, and coastal forests. It is also found on islands and atolls, where it plays an important role in stabilizing sand dunes and preventing erosion. In some areas, Scaevola taccada is considered a weed or invasive species, as it can spread quickly and outcompete native plant species in disturbed areas. Scaevola taccada has been introduced to some areas outside of its native range, including Florida, Hawaii, and other parts of the Caribbean and Pacific Islands. In these areas, the plant has become naturalized and is often found growing in coastal habitats. However, it is important to prevent the plant from becoming invasive in new areas, as it can disrupt native ecosystems and displace native plant species. Cultivation Scaevola taccada can be propagated through seed or vegetative methods such as cuttings or division. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can also tolerate some shade. It is salt-tolerant and can grow in coastal environments and sandy soils. The plant is drought-tolerant but will benefit from regular watering. In cultivation, Scaevola taccada is often used as a ground cover or border plant, but it can also be grown in containers. The plant can be trimmed to maintain a desired shape and size, but pruning should be done carefully to avoid damaging the plant. Propagation by seed can be done by collecting ripe fruit and extracting the seeds, which should be sown in well-draining soil. Germination can be slow and may take up to several weeks. Vegetative propagation is often faster and more reliable. To propagate by cuttings, take stem cuttings of about 10-15 cm (4-6 inches) in length, and remove the lower leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide partial shade until new growth appears. Scaevola taccada can be grown in tropical and subtropical regions, but it may not tolerate frost. It is important to provide protection from cold temperatures if grown in areas with frost risk. The plant is relatively low-maintenance and does not typically require fertilization, although it may benefit from occasional applications of a balanced fertilizer. Uses Scaevola taccada has many uses, both traditional and modern. In Hawaii, the plant is used for lei-making and as a traditional medicinal plant. The plant's wood is hard and durable, and it has been used for making canoes, fishing nets, and other tools. The plant's leaves and roots are also used for dyeing fabrics. In modern times, Scaevola taccada is used for landscaping and erosion control. The plant is often used in coastal restoration projects to prevent erosion and to stabilize sand dunes. It is also used as a ground cover or as a border plant in gardens and parks. In addition to its medicinal properties, the plant has other potential uses in modern medicine. Studies have shown that extracts from the plant have antibacterial and antifungal properties, which could be useful in the development of new drugs. The plant is also a valuable source of food for wildlife, including birds and insects. The flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies, and the fruit is eaten by birds and small mammals. In some cultures, Scaevola taccada is considered to have spiritual significance. In Hawaii, the plant is associated with the goddess of hula, Laka, and is often used in hula ceremonies and other cultural events. Medicinal properties Scaevola taccada has been used for traditional medicine in many cultures. The plant is known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and diuretic properties. It has been used to treat various ailments, including fever, cough, asthma, skin infections, and digestive problems. The leaves and roots of the plant are often used for medicinal purposes, and they can be consumed as a tea or applied topically as a poultice. Conservation Status Scaevola taccada is not currently listed as a threatened or endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). However, the plant is at risk due to habitat loss, coastal development, and invasive species. While the plant is widespread in the Pacific region, localized populations may be vulnerable to disturbances such as land-use changes or natural disasters. It is important to protect the plant's natural habitats and to prevent its introduction to new areas where it could become invasive. Monitoring and conservation efforts may be necessary to ensure the long-term survival of Scaevola taccada populations. Conclusion Scaevola taccada is a versatile and hardy plant that has many uses, both traditional and modern. It is valued for its ornamental and medicinal properties, as well as its potential uses in modern medicine. The plant is also an important part of coastal ecosystems and provides habitat and food for wildlife. As with any plant species, it is important to protect the natural habitats of Scaevola taccada and to use it responsibly to prevent it from becoming invasive in new areas.