Origin
The Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey (pro sp.) belongs to the family Gesneriaceae and is a hybrid species of Cyrtandra. This plant is believed to have originated in Hawaii, specifically in the Wai?anae Range on O?ahu island.
Common Names
The Cyrtandra ×carinata is commonly known as the Hawaiian-Blue Cyrtandra. It is also known as the Hanawi Cyrtandra or the Wai?anae Range Cyrtandra. These names are inspired by the plant's origin and location.
Uses
The Cyrtandra ×carinata has a few uses. It can be used for ornamental purposes in gardens and landscapes due to its stunning appearance. It also has medicinal properties as it contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. In traditional Hawaiian medicine, the crushed leaves of the plant are used as a poultice for skin infections and inflammation. The plant is also used to create lei, which are garlands or wreaths made using flowers, seeds, nuts, and shells.
General Appearance
The Cyrtandra ×carinata is an evergreen shrub with an upright growth habit that can reach up to 6 feet in height. The plant has large, glossy dark green leaves that are elliptical in shape. The leaves are arranged oppositely on the stem, and they measure approximately 10-18 cm in length and 2.5-5 cm in width. The plant produces beautiful blue-violet flowers that grow in clusters at the tips of the stems. Each flower has a prominent white throat and measures approximately 3-4 cm in length. The plant blooms throughout the year, but the peak blooming season is from fall to spring.
Growth Conditions for Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey
Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey is a tropical plant that prefers warm and humid conditions. When growing this plant, it is important to take into consideration its light, temperature, and soil requirements.
Light Requirements
Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey grows best in partial or filtered light. It cannot tolerate direct sunlight for extended periods as it can cause the leaves to turn brown or yellow. Therefore, it is advisable to place this plant in a location where it will receive bright light without direct sunlight.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature for Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey to grow is between 70 to 80°F. This plant cannot tolerate low temperatures or cold drafts, which can cause its leaves to fall off. It is best to keep it in a warm and humid environment, such as a greenhouse or indoors with proper temperature control.
Soil Requirements
Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey needs a well-draining, rich, and slightly acidic soil that mimics its natural habitat. A good mix for this plant would contain peat moss, perlite, and bark. It is advisable to repot the plant once every two years or as needed to ensure that its soil is fresh and provides optimal nutrients for growth.
By providing the right light, temperature, and soil conditions, Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey will thrive and produce beautiful flowers.
Cultivation of Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey
Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey is a tropical plant species, originally from Hawaii. It needs warm temperatures and high humidity to thrive, making it an excellent choice for indoor gardening in humid and warm climates.
The plant prefers well-draining, rich soils that are kept evenly moist. For best performance, plant it in a pot with drainage holes. Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey grows well in partial shade to full sun, with filtered sunlight being the best option. If you live in a region with bright, direct sunlight, make sure to keep the plant away from the intense rays of the sun.
If you plan to grow the plant outdoors, make sure to select an area with good air movement, as it is susceptible to fungal infections. Indoors, with sufficient humidity and good air circulation, it makes an excellent houseplant.
Watering Needs
Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey requires regular watering, with the soil kept evenly moist. Do not overwater the plant to avoid root rot. To avoid waterlogging, allow the soil to dry out slightly before watering again. Make sure to water the plant early in the day or in the evening, retaining moisture for longer hours.
Fertilization
Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey requires regular feeding with a balanced fertilizer every three to four weeks during the growing season. Use a liquid fertilizer for indoor plants, adding in a slightly diluted form. Slow-release pellet fertilizers can also be applied to the soil every three months. Nitrogenous fertilizers with higher NPK values can be added but in minimal amounts due to the soft nature of stems.
Pruning
Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey should be pruned regularly to prevent it from becoming leggy. Prune once every spring to remove damaged, diseased, or dead leaves or stems. Pinching back the tips of new growth will encourage bushy growth. Shape the plant by pruning its stem ends. Leave two to three leaf nodes while pruning, allowing new growth to emerge.
Propagation of Cyrtandra ×carinata
Cyrtandra ×carinata, commonly known as Hawaiian shell-flower, is a tropical shrub that belongs to the family Gesneriaceae. It is native to Hawaii and is admired for its attractive foliage and showy tubular flowers. The propagation of Cyrtandra ×carinata can be achieved through the following methods:
Seed Propagation
Propagation through seeds can be a bit challenging, but it is a viable method. Clean and dry seeds can be sown in a moist seed-starting mix in a warm and bright location. The seeds will usually germinate within 2 to 3 weeks. Once the seedlings are large enough, they can be transplanted into individual pots and placed in a semi-shaded area. However, you should note that seedlings may not be identical to the parent plant, so this method is not suitable for propagating cultivars or hybrids.
Stem Cuttings Propagation
Stem cuttings propagation is the most common way to propagate Cyrtandra ×carinata. Take a 4 to 6 inches stem cutting from the parent plant, preferably in the spring or summer when the plant is actively growing. Remove the lower leaves from the stem and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone. Plant the stem in a well-draining potting mix and keep it moist in a bright and humid location. After about four weeks, the roots would have formed, and the plant can be transplanted to a larger container or garden bed, where it will continue to develop into a beautiful shrub.
Air Layering Propagation
Air layering propagation is another method that can be used to propagate Cyrtandra ×carinata. This method involves creating a wound on the stem by removing a section of the bark. Apply rooting hormone to the wound and wrap it with a damp moss or peat. After some months, the roots would have formed, and a new plant will appear. Cut it from the parent plant and plant it in a potting mix.
Propagation of Cyrtandra ×carinata is possible through the different methods mentioned above. Ensure that the plants are grown in fertile soil, in a semi-shaded area where there is enough moisture to promote growth. With proper care, your new propagated plant will flourish and add beauty to your garden or indoor space.
Disease Management
Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey is susceptible to certain diseases that can affect its overall growth and development, such as:
- Leaf spot disease: This disease is caused by fungi that cause dark spots on the plant's leaves, which leads to its decay. Prune affected leaves immediately to prevent the spread of the fungus. Ensure that the plant has proper air ventilation and avoid overhead watering.
- Powdery mildew: This disease results in white patches on the leaves, which eventually leads to the plant's obstruction of photosynthesis. Ensure that the plant receives adequate sunlight and that there is proper air ventilation. Use an appropriate fungicide spray to treat the infected parts of the plant.
- Pythium root rot: This disease leads to mildew on the plant's leaves, which eventually causes the plant to wilt and die. Remove the affected plant parts and ensure proper air ventilation. Avoid overwatering and ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil.
Pest Management
Several pests can also negatively affect the health of Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey. These include:
- Aphids: These are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the plant's sap. Use appropriate insecticides to eradicate them. Spray the leaves with a solution of dish soap and water to suffocate the aphids.
- Spider Mites: These are tiny, red or brown insects that feed on the plant's sap. Use an appropriate insecticide to treat them. Ensure that the plant's foliage is kept moist, and increase the humidity around the plant to deter spider mites.
- Thrips: These are tiny, winged insects that feed on the underside of the plant's leaves. Use an appropriate insecticide to treat them. Remove infected plant parts and ensure proper air ventilation and higher humidity levels.
Overall, it is crucial to maintain proper plant hygiene to prevent diseases and pests from affecting your Cyrtandra ×carinata St. John & Storey plant. Inspect the plant regularly and take prompt action when you notice any signs of diseases or pests.
