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Description
Kadua Affinis, also known as Hawaiian moonflower, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. This species is endemic to Hawaii and is found in moist to wet forests on all of the Hawaiian islands except Ni’ihau and Kaho’olawe. Kadua Affinis is an annual or perennial herb that can grow up to 1 meter tall. It has distinctive white, funnel-shaped flowers that bloom from May to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Kadua |
Appearance
Kadua Affinis has a slender stem that is green or reddish-brown in color. The leaves are egg-shaped to oblong and measure between 2 to 8 centimeters long. They are dark green and glossy on top and lighter in color on the underside. The flowers of Kadua Affinis are white and measure between 1.5 to 4 centimeters in diameter. They have a sweet fragrance and bloom in clusters at the end of the stems.
Care Guide
Kadua Affinis requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season. Kadua Affinis prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kadua Affinis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly-draining soil. Watch out for spider mites and aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Kadua Affinis is found in moist to wet forests in Hawaii. It prefers humid conditions and can grow in elevations up to 1,500 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Kadua Affinis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Kadua Affinis can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with enough humidity and light.
Q: How often should I fertilize Kadua Affinis?
A: Fertilize Kadua Affinis every four to six weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Kadua Affinis invasive?
A: No, Kadua Affinis is not considered invasive.
Q: How long do the flowers of Kadua Affinis last?
A: The flowers of Kadua Affinis bloom from May to September and can last up to a week or more.
Related Plants
- Kadua Cordifolia
- Kadua Elatior
- Kadua Fluviatilis
- Kadua Fruticosa
References
- Wagner, W. L., Herbst, D. R., & Sohmer, S. H. (1990). Manual of the flowering plants of Hawai’i, Vol. 1. University of Hawaii Press.
- Hawaiian Native Plant Propagation Database. (n.d.). Kadua affinis. Retrieved from http://www.nativeplants.hawaii.edu/plant/view/Kadua_affinis
- Wagner, W. L., Herbst, D. R., & Sohmer, S. H. (1999). Manual of the flowering plants of Hawai’i, Vol. 2. University of Hawaii Press.
