Overview
Clermontia parviflora Gaud. ex Gray var. grandis Rock is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Campanulaceae. This plant is endemic to Hawaii and can usually be found growing in wet or moist forests, typically at elevations of 2,000 to 5,000 feet.
Common Names
This plant is commonly referred to as the Mauna Loa Oha Wai, Koli`i Oha Wai, or `Oha Wai.
Appearance
Clermontia parviflora Gaud. ex Gray var. grandis Rock has a shrubby growth habit and typically grows up to 4-10 feet tall. This plant features a woody stem and glossy green leaves that are arranged in a rosette pattern at the top.
The flowers of Clermontia parviflora Gaud. ex Gray var. grandis Rock are stunning, featuring a bright yellow and red trumpet-shaped corolla with purple sepals. These flowers grow in clusters at the tips of the stems and typically bloom from October to June.
Uses
Clermontia parviflora Gaud. ex Gray var. grandis Rock is primarily grown for ornamental purposes and is a popular addition to gardens and landscapes due to its striking appearance. Additionally, this plant has some cultural significance in Hawaiian culture, where it is often used in lei making and as an offering in religious and spiritual ceremonies.
Light Requirements
Clermontia parviflora var. grandis prefers bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves, so it is best to place them near a window with filtered light. In their natural habitat, they grow under the canopy of taller trees in the forest understory, receiving dappled sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
These plants prefer a warm and humid environment. Ideal temperatures should range between 60°F to 80°F (16°C to 27°C). They cannot withstand extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature. Avoid placing them near air conditioning vents or drafty areas.
Soil Requirements
Clermontia parviflora var. grandis thrives in a well-draining soil mixture that is rich in organic matter. The soil must retain moisture but not become waterlogged. To meet these requirements, mix peat moss and perlite in equal parts with a small amount of sand. Additionally, it is beneficial to fertilize the plant with an organic fertilizer during their growing season.
Cultivation Methods
Clermontia parviflora Gaud. ex Gray var. grandis Rock is native to the Hawaiian Islands, where it grows in humid and shaded areas. To cultivate this plant, you should replicate these conditions. Place the plant in a location where it won't receive direct sunlight but will still get bright, indirect light. Use well-draining soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Ensure the plant is kept away from any cold drafts, and keep the environment around the plant consistently warm and humid to encourage growth. You can also propagate the plant using stem cuttings or seeds.
Watering Needs
Clermontia parviflora Gaud. ex Gray var. grandis Rock prefers consistently moist soil. Water the plant regularly but avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot. Check the soil's moisture level by sticking your finger a few inches into the soil. If it feels dry, it's time to water the plant. You can also mist the leaves of the plant with water to improve humidity levels.
Fertilization
To support the plant's growth, fertilize it with a balanced liquid fertilizer from spring to fall. Use the fertilizer every two weeks as directed on the label. During the winter, reduce the frequency of fertilization to once a month. Make sure not to over-fertilize the plant, as this can cause leaf burn and damage.
Pruning
Pruning Clermontia parviflora Gaud. ex Gray var. grandis Rock is not necessary, but it can help the plant maintain its shape and size. If the plant grows too large, you can prune it back to a more manageable size. Additionally, you can remove any dead or damaged leaves to promote new growth. Use sterilized pruning shears to prevent any potential disease transmission.
Propagation of Clermontia parviflora Gaud. ex Gray var. grandis Rock
Clermontia parviflora Gaud. ex Gray var. grandis Rock, commonly known as Oha wai, is a rare and endangered plant species endemic to Hawaii. It belongs to the family Campanulaceae and is considered a small tree or shrub, reaching a height of up to 10 feet. Propagation of this plant can be difficult and often requires specialized techniques.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is possible with Clermontia parviflora var. grandis, but it is not the most effective method. Seeds can take a long time to germinate, and the resulting plants may not have the same characteristics as the parent plant. To propagate by seed, collect ripe fruit from a healthy parent plant and remove the seeds. The seeds can then be planted in a well-draining soil mixture and kept moist in a warm, shaded area until they germinate.
Propagation by Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is a more effective method for Clermontia parviflora var. grandis. Take softwood cuttings that are 4-6 inches long with at least two nodes. Remove the leaves from the bottom node and dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mixture and keep it moist in a warm, shaded area. It may take several months for the cutting to root and begin to grow.
Propagation by Air Layering
Air layering can also be used for propagation of Clermontia parviflora var. grandis. Choose a healthy stem and make a small cut in the bark where you want the roots to form. Wrap the area with moist sphagnum moss and cover it with plastic wrap. Keep the moss moist and wait for roots to form, which can take several months. Once roots have formed, cut the stem below the air layer and plant it in a well-draining soil mixture.
Disease Management for Clermontia parviflora Gaud. ex Gray var. grandis Rock
Clermontia parviflora Gaud. ex Gray var. grandis Rock is susceptible to several fungal and bacterial diseases that can be detrimental to the growth and health of the plant. Here are some common diseases that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Anthracnose
Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes brown lesions on the leaves and stems of the plant. To manage anthracnose, it is important to remove and destroy all infected plant debris and spray a fungicide on the plant as soon as the symptoms appear. Avoid overhead watering and keep the plant in a well-ventilated area to prevent the disease from spreading.
Cercospora Leaf Spot
Cercospora leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes circular, yellow or brown spots on the leaves of the plant. To manage cercospora leaf spot, remove and destroy all infected plant debris, improve air circulation around the plant, and spray a fungicide on the plant. Avoid overhead watering and water the plant early in the day to allow the leaves to dry quickly.
Pest Management for Clermontia parviflora Gaud. ex Gray var. grandis Rock
Clermontia parviflora Gaud. ex Gray var. grandis Rock may also be affected by several pests that can harm the plant. Here are some common pests that may affect the plant and ways to manage them:
Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. To manage aphids, spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to help control the infestation.
Mealybugs
Mealybugs are small, white insects that can infest the plant and cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. To manage mealybugs, wipe the leaves and stems of the plant with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. You can also spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Spider Mites
Spider mites are tiny, red or brown insects that can suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and fall off. To manage spider mites, spray the plant with a strong jet of water to dislodge the mites from the leaves. You can also spray the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
