Cyrtandra ×forbesii St. John & Storey

Introduction

Cyrtandra ×forbesii St. John & Storey is a fascinating and unique plant that belongs to the family Gesneriaceae. It is an intriguing hybrid between Cyrtandra waiomaoensis and Cyrtandra affinis, and it is widely known for its exceptional floral characteristics. This plant is an indigenous species of Hawaii, and it has various common names, such as Forbes' Cyrtandra, Hawaiian Marylika or Mary Lika's Cyrtandra.

Appearance

The Forbes' Cyrtandra is a small to medium-sized shrub that can grow to a height of about 0.3-1 meter tall. Its sturdy stems are covered by small hairs and support a dark green foliage that has a velvety texture. The leaves are broad, elliptical and can measure up to 18 centimeters in length. The flowers are brilliantly colored, presenting the usual tube shape of the Gesneriaceae family. Their color pallet range from dark reds to white and pink shades, they also have a unique bright orange color found in strains from the waiomaoensis parent.

Origin and Distribution

Cyrtandra ×forbesii St. John & Storey is a cross between its parent plants Cyrtandra affinis and Cyrtandra waiomaoensis. This species was first described in the year 1981 and was named after Bishop Charles Reed Bishop's wife, Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop Forbes, a direct descendant of King Kamehameha through his sister. These plants are native to Hawaii, specifically in the forests of the island of Oahu, where they are commonly found inhabiting rocky terrain or the understory of the rainforest.

Uses

Forbes' Cyrtandra is an excellent addition to any garden, and it thrives in tropical or subtropical climatic conditions. Its vibrant flowers make a lovely centerpiece in floral arrangements, and the foliage adds an excellent contrast to the garden's greenery. Additionally, the plant has been known for its medicinal properties. It has antibacterial and antioxidant agents found in its leaves, traditionally used as a poultice for treating skin infections and irritations.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cyrtandra ×forbesii St. John & Storey is an outstanding plant that is widely adored for its exceptional flowers, medicinal properties, and unique origin. This plant has brought joy to numerous gardens and households in Hawaii and all over the world. It's a gem in the botanical kingdom worth exploring.

Growth Conditions for Cyrtandra ×forbesii

Cyrtandra ×forbesii, commonly known as Forbes' Cyrtandra, is a beautiful plant that is native to Hawaii. This plant is highly valued for its unique foliage and bright, showy blooms that can range in color from pink to red. To ensure that Cyrtandra ×forbesii thrives well, the following growth conditions must be taken into account.

Light Requirements

Cyrtandra ×forbesii thrives well in a well-lit environment but not with direct sunlight. The plant prefers bright, indirect light, which can be found in a partially shaded area. Indoor plants should be placed beside a north-facing window to get the appropriate amount of light required. Exposing it to direct sunlight can lead to leaf burn, which can stunt its growth.

Temperature Requirements

Cyrtandra ×forbesii prefers warm and humid conditions. The ideal temperature range for the plant is between 68°F and 80°F (20°C to 27°C). It can tolerate minimum temperatures of 50°F (10°C). If planted outdoors, this plant can only thrive in tropical or subtropical climates. Exposure to freezing temperatures can be detrimental to the plant's survival.

Soil Requirements

Cyrtandra ×forbesii grows well in well-drained soil that is slightly acidic in nature. The soil should also be rich in organic matter and retain moisture well. A soil mixture of peat moss, sand, and perlite is ideal for potting Cyrtandra ×forbesii plants. When grown outdoors, this plant does well when planted in a fertile, organic-rich, and well-drained soil.

It’s important to note that adequate watering is essential to maintain the soil moisture content at the right level. The plant should be watered to keep the soil consistently moist. Regular fertilization, particularly during the growing season, is also important in maintaining the plant's growth and blooms.

Conclusion

With the right growth conditions, Cyrtandra ×forbesii can thrive and provide a beautiful aesthetic in any environment. Maintaining a well-lit place, ensuring warm and humid conditions, and using a well-drained soil composition will contribute to its best growth.

Cultivation Methods

Cyrtandra ×forbesii is typically grown indoors as a houseplant. To cultivate this plant successfully, it is essential to provide it with the right growing conditions. The plant prefers bright, indirect light, so it should be placed near a window or under fluorescent lights. The temperature should be kept between 60°F to 75°F. It is essential to keep the plant away from drafts, which can cause the leaves to drop.

The soil for Cyrtandra ×forbesii should be well-draining and fertile, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. A mixture of peat moss, perlite, vermiculite, and sand can be used to prepare the soil.

Watering Needs

The watering needs of Cyrtandra ×forbesii are similar to those of other tropical plants. The soil should be kept consistently moist but not waterlogged. The bottom of the pot should be checked regularly, and any excess water drained away. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so ensure that the soil is not too wet at any time. Watering should be reduced in winter when the plant is dormant.

Fertilization

Regular fertilization is essential to promote the healthy growth of Cyrtandra ×forbesii. The plant should be fed with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season, which is usually from spring to fall. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the dosage and frequency of fertilization. Over-fertilization can be harmful to the plant.

Pruning

Pruning is an essential part of maintaining the shape and health of Cyrtandra ×forbesii. This plant should be pruned in spring to remove any dead or damaged leaves. Pruning can help stimulate new growth and improve the overall appearance of the plant. If the plant becomes too leggy, it can be pruned back to encourage bushier growth.

Propagation of Cyrtandra ×forbesii St. John & Storey

Cyrtandra ×forbesii St. John & Storey, commonly known as Forbes' cyrtandra is a popular tropical evergreen plant that belongs to the Gesneriaceae family. The plant is native to Hawaii and is well-known for its beautiful red, tubular-shaped flowers that bloom all year round. Forbes' cyrtandra is relatively easy to propagate, and growers can use various methods to propagate the plant.

Stem Cuttings

One of the easiest ways to propagate Forbes' cyrtandra is through stem cuttings. Choose a healthy stem from the parent plant and take a cutting that is between 4 to 6 inches long. Remove the bottom leaves, leaving only a few leaves at the top. Dip the cut end of the stem into rooting hormone and plant it into a pot filled with a well-draining soil mix. Ensure the soil is moist and place the pot in a warm, well-lit area. The cutting should root within 4-6 weeks.

Division

Division is another method that growers can use to propagate Forbes' cyrtandra. This method involves separating the parent plant into several smaller plants. Choose a healthy parent plant with a well-developed root system and carefully dig it up. Use a sharp knife or garden shears to divide the plant into smaller sections. Ensure that each section has a healthy root system and replant them into individual pots filled with well-draining soil mix. Water the newly divided plants and keep them in a warm, well-lit area to promote growth.

Seeds

Although not the most common method, propagating Forbes' cyrtandra through seeds is still a viable option. Collect mature seeds from the parent plant and plant them in a well-draining soil mix, covering them lightly with soil. Keep the soil moist and place the pot in a warm, well-lit area. The seeds should germinate within 2-3 weeks.

Lastly, it is essential to note that Forbes' cyrtandra prefers warm and moist conditions, so maintaining adequate watering and humidity levels is crucial when propagating the plant. Additionally, it is recommended to propagate the plant during the growing season for optimal success.

Disease Management

Cyrtandra ×forbesii St. John & Storey is prone to certain diseases which can affect its growth and yield. Some of the common diseases that might affect the plant include:

• Fungal diseases: These include leaf spot and powdery mildew. The best way to manage these diseases is to maintain good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used to control the diseases.
• Bacterial diseases: These include bacterial wilt and leaf spot. The infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of the disease. The soil should also be treated with a disinfectant before replanting.

Pest Management

Cyrtandra ×forbesii St. John & Storey is also prone to pest attacks which can damage the plant. Some of the common pests that might affect the plant include:

• Aphids: These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Natural predators such as ladybugs can also help to control the pest population.
• Mites: These can be managed by increasing humidity around the plant and using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Predatory mites can also be introduced to control the pest population.
• Mealybugs: These can be treated using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Natural predators such as lacewings and ladybugs can also be used to control the pest population.