Overview:
Cyrtandra subcordata St. John, commonly referred to as "haiwale" or "makaloa," is a perennial plant species that belongs to the family Gesneriaceae. This endemic plant of Hawaii grows in moist forests at elevations of around 3,300 feet and is commonly found on the islands of Kauai, Maui, and Molokai.
Appearance:
The Cyrtandra subcordata St. John plant has thick, woody stems and large, medium-green leaves that are covered in soft, white hairs. The leaves are somewhat heart-shaped, with a pointed tip and a slightly serrated edge, and can grow up to six inches in length. The plant produces tubular, pinkish-purple flowers that are about one inch long and bloom from February through August. The flowers are arranged in clusters on short, branched stems that emerge from the leaf axils.
Uses:
Traditionally, the native Hawaiians used Cyrtandra subcordata St. John for medicinal purposes. The leaves were chewed or boiled to make a tea that was used as an astringent to heal wounds or as a remedy for stomach pains. The plant also has ornamental value, and its attractive flowers and thick foliage make it a popular choice for landscaping and indoor decoration.
Light Requirements
Cyrtandra subcordata St. John is a tropical plant that prefers bright but indirect sunlight. It should be placed in a location where it receives partial shade throughout the day. Direct sunlight can cause scorching on the leaves, whereas insufficient light can lead to stunted growth.
Temperature Requirements
The optimal temperature range for Cyrtandra subcordata St. John is between 18 and 27 degrees Celsius. It is a warm-weather plant and cannot tolerate temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius. The plant's growth rate slows down in colder temperatures, and it may become susceptible to diseases and pests.
Soil Requirements
Cyrtandra subcordata St. John thrives in well-draining, nutrient-rich soil. The ideal pH range is between 5.5 and 6.5. It requires regular watering, but the soil should not be overly moist. Overwatering can cause root rot and damage the plant's growth. Adding fertilizers every two to three months can help maintain the soil's nutrient content and promote healthy growth.
In summary, providing suitable light, temperature, and soil conditions is crucial for the growth and development of Cyrtandra subcordata St. John. Maintaining these conditions can help the plant reach its full potential and produce vibrant foliage and flowers.
Cultivation
The Cyrtandra subcordata St. John plant is native to Hawaii and grows in moist, tropical forests. It needs a warm and humid environment to thrive. Ideally, it should be planted in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. The plant requires regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote new growth.
Watering Needs
The Cyrtandra subcordata St. John plant needs to be watered regularly to keep the soil moist. However, it does not like to sit in water, so it is critical to have proper drainage. During the growing season, especially in the summer months, it may require more frequent watering. In winter, when growth slows down, less water is needed but avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Fertilization
To encourage the best growth, Cyrtandra subcordata St. John should be fertilized during its growing season in spring and summer. Use a balanced fertilizer that is high in nitrogen and low in phosphorus and potassium. Apply the fertilizer every two to three weeks, following the instructions given on the label. Avoid fertilizing during winter or over-feeding, which may cause root burn or weak plant growth.
Pruning
Pruning is necessary to keep the plant looking neat and to encourage healthy growth. It is best to prune Cyrtandra subcordata St. John during its growing period. The plant can be shaped by cutting back the longer stems to a suitable point. This encourages new growth and helps to maintain the plant's shape. Small brown or yellow leaves or any diseased stems should be pruned away as they appear.
Propagation of Cyrtandra subcordata St. John
Cyrtandra subcordata St. John, commonly known as Pokiawe or Indian root, is a Hawaiian plant species that belongs to the African violet family. The plant is an evergreen shrub and is attractive due to its large, shiny green leaves and bright pink tubular-shaped flowers that bloom throughout the year. Propagation of the Cyrtandra subcordata St. John can be done efficiently using both stem cuttings and seeds.
Propagation by Stem Cuttings
Propagation by stem cuttings is an effective and straightforward method that involves taking six-inch-long cuttings of healthy, disease-free stems with a sterilized sharp blade. The cuttings should be made at a 45-degree angle and placed in a well-draining rooting medium, like coarse sand or vermiculite. The cuttings should be watered regularly and kept in a warm and humid environment, away from direct sunlight. It should take up to eight weeks for the roots to develop, and the cutting will be ready for transplanting once they have developed a good root system.
Propagation by Seeds
The seeds of the Cyrtandra subcordata St. John can be collected once the flowering process is completed. The seeds should be cleaned and dried in a dry place before planting them on a nursery pot filled with well-draining soil medium. They should be kept moist by regular watering, preferably from the bottom, and kept in a warm and humid environment. It should take around two to three weeks for the seeds to germinate, and the seedlings will be ready for transplanting once they have developed their second or third set of leaves.
Disease and Pest Management for Cyrtandra subcordata St. John
Cyrtandra subcordata St. John, commonly known as Hawaiian violet, is an evergreen plant species that belongs to the family Gesneriaceae. The plant is native to Hawaii, and it is famous for its dark green leaves and purple-colored flowers. Proper care and management practices can enhance the growth and health of your Hawaiian violet plant. Below are some of the common diseases and pests that might affect the plant, with suggested management methods for each.
Common Diseases
Fungal Leaf Spot: This is a common disease that affects the plant's leaves, causing them to develop brown or black spots. To manage this disease, you can remove the affected leaves and destroy them to prevent the spread of the disease. It is also crucial to avoid overhead watering, as water droplets on leaves can encourage the growth of fungi. Ensure you water the plant at the base, keeping the foliage dry.
Botrytis Blight: This is a fungal disease that thrives in cold and damp conditions. It affects the plant's foliage, stems, and flowers, causing them to wilt and die. To prevent the spread of this disease, ensure there is proper air circulation around the plant and avoid overcrowding. Additionally, keep the humidity low in the growing area.
Common Pests
Aphids: These are common pests that feed on the plant's sap. They are small and green or black in color and are often found on the underside of leaves. To manage aphids, you can release natural predators such as ladybugs into the plant's growing area. Alternatively, you can use a solution of mild soap and water to wash off the pests from the leaves.
Mealybugs: These pests are common on Hawaiian violet plants and are characterized by a cotton-like white substance on the leaves and stem. They also feed on the plant's sap, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. To manage mealybugs, you can use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to wipe off the bugs from the plant's surface. You can also release parasitic wasps into the growing area to control the pests.
By implementing proper management practices and being vigilant, you can prevent diseases and pests from affecting your Hawaiian violet plant. If the pest infestation or disease spread is severe, you can seek help from a local horticulturist or plant expert.
