Diseases of Tuberose in Hawaii

Abstract

Tuberose, Polianthes tuberosa L. of Mexican origin, is cultivated in Hawaii for its fragrant, white, waxy flowers used to make leis. The plant is propagated by transplanting daughter tubers from older plants. This form of vegetative propagation favors the spread of many diseases. A number of fungus, bacteria, virus, and nematode diseases are spread in and on tubers, bulbs, or rhizomes of vegetatively propagated ornamentals. Because little is known of tuberose, investigations were initiated at the Hawaii Agricultural Experiment Station to study the problems of the crop. Of the three serious diseases of tuberose found in Hawaii, two are caused by parasitic nematodes and one by a fungus. Of the two minor diseases, one is caused by an insect and bacterium and one by insects alone.