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Description
Clermontia Parviflora, commonly known as Mauna Loa Clermontia or Hawaiian Tube Flower, is a species of flowering plant in the Bellflower family, Campanulaceae. It is endemic to Hawaii and is found in the rainforests of the islands of Hawaii and Maui. The plant is a small tree or shrub that can grow up to 20 feet tall. Its flowers are tube-shaped and typically bloom from May to July.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Clermontia |
Appearance
Clermontia Parviflora has glossy, dark green leaves that are up to 6 inches long and 2 inches wide. The plant’s tube-shaped flowers can grow up to 1.5 inches long and come in shades of pink, purple, and blue. The flowers are arranged in clusters and bloom from May to July. The plant produces small, round, green berries that turn yellow when ripe.
Care Guide
Clermontia Parviflora requires well-draining soil and moderate watering. The plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. It is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11. Fertilize Clermontia Parviflora with a balanced fertilizer every two to three months during the growing season.
Common Pests & Diseases
Clermontia Parviflora is susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered. The plant can also be affected by mealybugs and spider mites. To prevent these pests, keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and monitor it regularly for signs of infestation.
Habitat
Clermontia Parviflora is native to the rainforests of Hawaii and can be found on the islands of Hawaii and Maui. It grows at elevations of 1,500 to 6,000 feet and is often found in wet, shaded areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I propagate Clermontia Parviflora from cuttings?
A: Yes, Clermontia Parviflora can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the summer.
Q: Does Clermontia Parviflora attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s tube-shaped flowers are attractive to hummingbirds and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I water Clermontia Parviflora?
A: Water Clermontia Parviflora when the top inch of soil is dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
Q: Is Clermontia Parviflora toxic to pets?
A: There is no information available to suggest that Clermontia Parviflora is toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Clermontia kakeana
- Clermontia lindseyana
- Clermontia oblongifolia
- Clermontia peleana
References
- “Clermontia parviflora.” Hawaii Native Plant Society. http://www.hawaiiplants.org/Clermontia-parviflora
- “Clermontia parviflora.” Floridata. https://floridata.com/Plants/Campanulaceae/Clermontia%20parviflora/786
