Cyanea purpurellifolia: Origin and Common Names
Cyanea purpurellifolia, also known as Rock's cyanea, is a flowering plant endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It is mainly found on the island of Maui, but it is also present on the island of Moloka'i. The plant is named after Dr. John David D. Rock, an American botanist who studied Hawaiian flora. Other common names for C. purpurellifolia include Neneleau, 'Alani, and Haha.Uses of Cyanea purpurellifolia
Cyanea purpurellifolia is not known to have any significant medicinal properties, but it has cultural importance to Hawaiian culture. The plant is often used symbolically in song and dance, as well as in the crafts industry. C. purpurellifolia is also a favorite of plant collectors and horticulturists, as it is an attractive plant that is prized for its showy flowers.Appearance of Cyanea purpurellifolia
Cyanea purpurellifolia is a large, perennial shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and 8 feet wide. The plant has leathery, dark green leaves that are deeply lobed and can reach up to 2 feet in length. The stem of C. purpurellifolia is stout and woody, and it has a purplish tint. The flowers of C. purpurellifolia are held in clusters or panicles and are tubular with a bluish-purple color. The plant blooms from May through August and produces fruits that are green and fleshy, similar to berries. Once the fruit ripens, it turns yellow, and its flesh becomes white and pulpy. The seeds of C. purpurellifolia are dispersed by birds and other animals that eat the fruit.Overall, Cyanea purpurellifolia is a unique and beautiful plant that has cultural significance and is appreciated by many for its ornamental value. However, like many Hawaiian plants, C. purpurellifolia is threatened by habitat loss and invasive species, making conservation efforts crucial to its survival.
Light Requirements
The Cyanea purpurellifolia (Rock) Lammers, Givnish & Systma thrives in bright, filtered sunlight. Direct sunlight can damage the plant, although it can tolerate some morning sun. It is best to place the plant in an east or west-facing window which allows for the filtered, indirect light it requires.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for the Cyanea purpurellifolia (Rock) Lammers, Givnish & Systma is between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit. It is crucial to avoid temperature extremes, as the plant is sensitive to both heat and cold. It is best to keep the plant in a room with consistent temperatures and avoid placing it near air conditioning or heating vents.
Soil Requirements
The Cyanea purpurellifolia (Rock) Lammers, Givnish & Systma prefers well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. It is best to use a mixture of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite to ensure proper drainage. The plant requires regular watering, and the soil should be kept evenly moist, but not waterlogged. It is recommended to use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer that is high in nitrogen to promote growth and maintain a healthy plant.
Cultivation
Cyanea purpurellifolia can be grown indoors as a houseplant or outdoors in a warm climate. Plant in well-draining soil and provide good air circulation to avoid fungal diseases. It prefers partial shade but can tolerate some direct sunlight.
Watering Needs
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Watering frequency will vary based on environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, but typically once or twice a week is sufficient.
Fertilization
Feed Cyanea purpurellifolia with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Dilute the fertilizer to half strength to avoid burning the roots. During the dormant season (fall and winter), reduce fertilization to once a month.
Pruning
To promote bushier growth, pinch off the tips of young stems. Prune back any dead or yellowing leaves to maintain the plant's appearance and prevent the spread of disease. Use clean and sharp pruning tools to avoid damaging the plant.
Propagation Methods for Cyanea purpurellifolia
Cyanea purpurellifolia, also known as the Rock cyanea, is a rare species of Hawaiian lobelioid plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. If you want to propagate this plant, here are the most common methods:
Seeds
Propagating cyanea from seeds is a tricky method, as they have a low rate of germination. Collect the seeds after the plant has flowered and ripened, and sow them in a well-draining medium. Keep the soil moist and maintain a warm temperature. Often, it takes several months for the seeds to germinate.
Cuttings
If you want to propagate your Cyanea purpurellifolia through cuttings, you have to make sure you get a stem that has some leaves. Ideally, choose a non-flowering stem and cut it beneath a node. Remove all the leaves except the top two and plant the stem in the soil, making sure to keep it moist. You can apply rooting hormone to the stem to enhance the chances of success.
Division
Another propagation method for the Cyanea purpurellifolia is through division. This method involves separating the mother plant into smaller sections and re-potting them. It is essential to use a sharp and sterilized tool to minimize damage to the plants. Make sure each division has enough roots and foliage to survive, and replant them in appropriate soil.
Whether you propagate Cyanea purpurellifolia from seeds, cuttings, or division, it is important to provide them with the optimal growing conditions, including adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients.
Disease and Pest Management for Cyanea purpurellifolia (Rock) Lammers, Givnish & Systma
Cyanea purpurellifolia (Rock) Lammers, Givnish & Systma is relatively disease and pest resistant, primarily due to its high elevation habitat. However, there are some common diseases and pests that can affect this plant.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Cyanea purpurellifolia is fungal leaf spot. This disease is caused by several species of fungi and is usually characterized by small, circular spots on the plant's leaves. To manage this disease, it is recommended to remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant by pruning surrounding vegetation. Additionally, applying a fungicide can help prevent the spread of the disease.
Another disease that can impact Cyanea purpurellifolia is root rot, which is caused by over-watering or poorly-drained soil. This disease can be prevented by ensuring proper soil drainage, avoiding over-watering, and using a well-draining soil mix.
Pests
One of the most significant pests affecting Cyanea purpurellifolia is the slug. Slugs feed on the plant's leaves, often leaving large holes and causing significant damage. To manage slugs, it is recommended to manually remove them from the plant or surrounding area, apply slug bait, and use copper barriers around the base of the plant to deter them.
Aphids are another pest that can impact Cyanea purpurellifolia, with infestations causing leaves to curl and yellow. To manage aphids, it is recommended to spray the plant with a strong stream of water and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the affected area.
Finally, the caterpillar of the Hawaiian blackburn butterfly can also become a pest of Cyanea purpurellifolia. These caterpillars can quickly consume the plant's leaves, causing significant damage. To manage this pest, it is recommended to physically remove the caterpillars and apply Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) to the plant to prevent further infestation.
