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Description
Brighamia is a genus of flowering plants native to Hawaii. It belongs to the family Campanulaceae and is also known as the Hawaiian palm or the cabbage on a stick. The plant is named after William Tufts Brigham, a naturalist who discovered it in 1864. There are only two species of Brighamia, namely Brighamia insignis and Brighamia rockii. Both species are endangered and are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Brighamia |
Appearance
Brighamia has a distinctive appearance with a palm-like trunk and long green leaves that resemble cabbage leaves. The plant can grow up to 20 feet tall in the wild, but the cultivated varieties are usually smaller, reaching up to 6 feet tall. The flowers of Brighamia are also unique, with tubular, white or greenish-yellow petals and a sweet fragrance. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall, and each plant can produce up to 100 flowers in a single season.
Care Guide
Brighamia can be a challenging plant to care for, but with the right conditions, it can thrive. Here are some tips for caring for Brighamia:- Water: Brighamia needs moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of the soil is dry. – Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. – Soil: Brighamia prefers well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. – Sunlight: Brighamia needs bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid placing the plant in direct sunlight as it can scorch the leaves. – Hardiness Zones: Brighamia is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Brighamia is susceptible to several pests and diseases, including spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering the plant and ensure good air circulation around it.
Habitat
Brighamia is endemic to Hawaii and is found only on the islands of Kauai, Niihau, and Molokai. The plant grows in dry, rocky areas on cliffs and steep slopes. It is adapted to the harsh conditions of its habitat and can survive long periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Brighamia a rare plant?
A: Yes, Brighamia is an endangered plant, and both species are critically endangered.
Q: Can Brighamia be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Brighamia can be grown indoors as long as it receives bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should Brighamia be fertilized?
A: Brighamia should be fertilized once every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Is Brighamia easy to care for?
A: Brighamia can be a challenging plant to care for, but with the right conditions, it can thrive.
Related Plants
– Lobelia niihauensis- Clermontia pyrularia- Cyanea superba- Delissea undulata
References
– “Brighamia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 5 May 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brighamia.- “Brighamia Insignis.” IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, 2014, www.iucnredlist.org/species/43902/44116231.
