Overview
Cyanea parvifolia (Forbes) Lammers, Givnish & Systma is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Campanulaceae. It is native to the Hawaiian Islands and is found at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 3,000 feet. It is a herbaceous perennial that is often grown as an ornamental plant for its showy flowers.
Common Names
Cyanea parvifolia is commonly known as bluewaretle or small-leaved cyanea.
Appearance
The plant typically grows up to 3-4 feet tall, with large, deeply lobed leaves that are light to dark green in color. The flowers are large, trumpet-shaped, and can be up to 5 inches long. They are typically blue or purple in color and grow in large clusters. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and is a favorite of hummingbirds.
Uses
Cyanea parvifolia is mainly grown as an ornamental plant due to its showy flowers. It is also used in traditional Hawaiian medicine to treat various ailments, including coughs, colds, and fevers. However, its use is limited due to the plant being endangered in the wild.
Light Requirements
The Cyanea parvifolia plant thrives well in bright but indirect sunlight. Since it is a tropical rainforest plant, it requires a good amount of light to flourish. However, too much direct sunlight may cause the leaves to become pale or yellow and wilt easily. An ideal location for this plant is a place that gets bright, filtered sunlight, such as near a north-facing window.
Temperature Requirements
The plant grows well in warm to hot temperatures, generally between 60 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal indoor temperature range should be between 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The Cyanea parvifolia plant requires consistent temperatures since fluctuations can affect its growth. Cold drafts and sudden temperature changes should also be avoided as they can cause damage to the plant.
Soil Requirements
The plant requires a well-draining soil mixture that is rich in organic matter. A typical potting mix for Cyanea parvifolia would consist of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. This type of soil mix ensures that water drains easily and prevents root rot. The plant prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Water Requirements
Since the Cyanea parvifolia is a tropical plant, it requires consistent moisture. The soil should be kept damp, but not too wet, as overwatering can lead to root rot. The plant should be watered regularly, and the soil should be checked frequently to ensure that it remains moist. Watering frequency may vary depending on the environment and the season, so it is important to monitor the moisture level of the soil at all times.
Cultivation of Cyanea parvifolia (Forbes) Lammers, Givnish & Systma
Cyanea parvifolia (Forbes) Lammers, Givnish & Systma is a relatively easy plant to cultivate with the right conditions provided. It is a tropical plant, so it needs warm temperatures between 65°F to 80°F (18°C to 27°C) to thrive.
The plant prefers to grow in bright, indirect sunlight and needs to be protected from direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves. It is essential to keep the plant in a humid environment, so it is advised to place a humidifier near the plant or spray the leaves regularly with water. Keep it in well-draining soil that is enriched with organic matter.
Watering Needs of Cyanea parvifolia (Forbes) Lammers, Givnish & Systma
Cyanea parvifolia (Forbes) Lammers, Givnish & Systma requires moist soil to thrive. You should water your plant once a week, making sure the soil is evenly moist. Avoid watering too much, which can lead to root rot. During the winter months, when the plant has slower growth, reduce watering frequency.
Fertilization of Cyanea parvifolia (Forbes) Lammers, Givnish & Systma
It's critical to fertilize your Cyanea parvifolia (Forbes) Lammers, Givnish & Systma once a month during the growing season. Fertilize it with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer. Avoid using too much fertilizer, which can burn the roots, and always follow the package instructions.
Pruning of Cyanea parvifolia (Forbes) Lammers, Givnish & Systma
Cyanea parvifolia (Forbes) Lammers, Givnish & Systma doesn't require pruning, but it's advisable to remove occasional yellow leaves or spent flowers to encourage new growth. Prune back the plant only if it becomes too leggy or overgrown. You can cut back up to one-third of the branches to encourage new growth.
Propagation of Cyanea parvifolia
Cyanea parvifolia, commonly known as the Haha or Lobel's Cyanea, is a plant that belongs to the Lobeliaceae family. It is endemic to Hawaii and is recognized by its beautiful and distinct blue-green leaves with purple undersides. Propagating this plant can be done through four methods: by seed, stem cuttings, division, and layering.
Propagation by Seed
Propagation by seed is the easiest and best method for growing multiple Cyanea parvifolia plants. Collect seeds from the ripe fruits, which often develop after flowering. Clean the seeds and soak them in water for 24-48 hours. Sow the seeds in a seed-starting mix and cover them with a thin layer of soil. To maintain moisture, cover the seeds with plastic or glass, and place them in a warm and bright location. The seeds will take three weeks to three months to germinate.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Cyanea parvifolia can also be propagated by stem cuttings taken from the mother plant. Select cuttings that are firm, healthy and around six inches long. Cut just below a node and strip away the lower leaves and flowers. Dip the cut end of the stem in rooting hormone, plant it in a well-draining soil mix, and water it. Cover the cutting with a plastic dome to maintain humidity. Keep the cutting in a bright, but indirect light until it has developed roots. It usually takes three to four weeks before roots start to grow.
Propagation by Division
The clumped nature of Cyanea parvifolia makes division one of the easiest propagation methods. When transplanting, separate the plant’s roots and gently pull apart the pseudobulbs, each with their crown and roots attached. Carefully replant the clumps with roots unbroken into new pots filled with well-draining soil. Water and then fertilize the plant.
Propagation by Layering
Propagation by layering is ideal for established Cyanea parvifolia plants. Choose a stem that is near the ground and capable of bending. Bury the stem 1-2 inches deep, spreading a light soil mix around it. Secure the stem in place with wire or stake. Water the soil and keep it moist. Wait for the stem to develop roots over the next few months. Once the roots have developed, cut the stem and plant it in a well-draining soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Cyanea parvifolia (Forbes) Lammers, Givnish & Systma
Cyanea parvifolia, a plant species endemic to Hawaii, may be susceptible to several diseases and pests. Here are some common ones and ways to manage them:
Diseases
Root rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant's roots to die off. Symptoms of root rot include yellowing of leaves, wilting, and a soft stem. To manage root rot, reduce watering and ensure proper drainage. Transplanting the plant to a well-draining medium can also help.
Bacterial leaf spot: This disease can cause spots on the plant's leaves, eventually leading to defoliation. To manage bacterial leaf spot, remove infected leaves and maintain proper air circulation and sanitation practices to avoid spreading the disease. Copper-based fungicides may also help, but it's best to consult with a professional before using them.
Pests
Mealybugs: These pests can appear as white, cottony masses on the plant's leaves and stems. They suck on the plant's sap and weaken the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage mealybugs, remove the pests by hand, use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil, or introduce natural enemies such as parasitic wasps.
Caterpillars: Caterpillars can chew on the plant's leaves and cause massive damage. To manage caterpillars, handpick them or introduce natural enemies such as birds or predatory insects. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) can also be used as a biological control agent.
Thrips: Thrips are tiny insects that feed on the plant's leaves, causing discoloration and deformities. To manage thrips, prune heavily infested parts of the plant and use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Introducing natural enemies such as predatory mites can also help.
