Charpentiera

Description

Charpentiera is a genus of flowering plants that are native to Hawaii. It belongs to the family Malvaceae, which includes more than 4,000 species of herbs, shrubs, and trees. Charpentiera was named after the French botanist Jean Louis Berlandier Charpentier who studied the flora of Hawaii in the 19th century. There are only two species in this genus, Charpentiera densiflora and Charpentiera obovata.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Charpentiera plants are evergreen shrubs or small trees that can grow up to 5 meters tall. They have leathery, dark green leaves that are about 10 centimeters long and 6 centimeters wide. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and have five petals that are about 2 centimeters long. The flowers are usually red or pink, but can also be yellow or white. They bloom from late winter to early summer and are followed by small, round fruits that are about 1 centimeter in diameter.

Care Guide

Charpentiera plants are relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions.

• Water: Charpentiera plants prefer moist soil, but do not like to be waterlogged. Water them deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions.
• Fertilization: Charpentiera plants benefit from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. Apply it once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Charpentiera plants prefer well-draining, acidic soil. If your soil is too alkaline, amend it with peat moss or sulfur.
• Sunlight: Charpentiera plants prefer partial shade, but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
• Hardiness Zones: Charpentiera plants are hardy in USDA zones 10 and 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Charpentiera plants are relatively pest and disease resistant, but they can sometimes be affected by the following:

• Scale insects: These small insects can infest the leaves and stems of Charpentiera plants and suck sap from them. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.
• Root rot: Charpentiera plants can be susceptible to root rot if they are overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater.

Habitat

Charpentiera plants are native to Hawaii and can be found in a variety of habitats, including coastal areas, lowland forests, and dry mesic forests. They are often found growing near streams or on rocky slopes.

Question and Answer

Q: Are Charpentiera plants toxic to pets?

A: There is no information available that suggests Charpentiera plants are toxic to pets.

Q: Can Charpentiera plants be grown indoors?

A: Charpentiera plants can be grown indoors if they are provided with bright, indirect light and kept in a humid environment.

Q: How often should I prune my Charpentiera plant?

A: Charpentiera plants do not require regular pruning, but you can prune them in late winter or early spring if they become too large or leggy.

Q: Can Charpentiera plants be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, Charpentiera plants can be propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer or fall.

Related Plants

• Hibiscus
• Abutilon
• Sida
• Malva

References

• “Charpentiera densiflora A.Gray”. Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 2021-10-20.
• “Charpentiera obovata A.Gray”. Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Retrieved 2021-10-20.
• “Malvaceae”. Encyclopædia Britannica. Retrieved 2021-10-20.