The phenology and stand structure of Myrica faya Ait. in Hawai’i

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to observe the phenological cycles of Myrica faya in Hawaii and to sample the stand structure of sites that have been invaded by this species. Observations on the phenology of M. faya were made at 2-week intervals from March 1983 through March 1985. Data were taken at three sites and were related to the data from nearby weather stations. Data collected included information on flowering, fruiting (mature and immature), leaf flushing, leaf fall, and fruit drop. Analysis of the phenologic patterns observed showed flowering, fruiting, and fruit drop to be endogenously controlled while leaf flushing and leaf fall were influenced by environmental variables. Radial growth of nine trees at two of the sites was monitored with a microdendrometer. Stand structure data were collected at two sites in 10 m wide belt transects. Basal diameters of all tree species were measured. One site showed M. faya to be well established and reproducing abundantly while the other site had relatively few individuals of M. faya in the two smallest size classes.