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singleflower cyrtandra
Scientific Name: Cyrtandra hematos
Family: Gesneriaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Shrub
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Cyrtandra Species
Cyrtandra is a large and diverse genus of flowering plants belonging to the African violet family (Gesneriaceae). With numerous species, many endemic to specific islands, these plants offer fascinating insights into island biogeography and plant evolution.
Considerations for Pets
- Some Cyrtandra species possess sticky seed pods.
Considerations for Children
- Some Cyrtandra species possess sticky seed pods.
Quirky Facts
- Cyrtandra hybrids can often be found growing side-by-side with their parent species in the same location.
- One population of Cyrtandra polyantha consisted of a single individual.
- Scaptomyza cyrtandrae flies breed on Cyrtandra platyphylla flowers.
Nomenclature and Taxonomy
- Scientific Name: Cyrtandra J. R. Forster & G. Forster
- Family: Gesneriaceae (African Violet Family)
- Synonym: Cyrtandraceae Jack (1823)
Distribution and Habitat
- Cyrtandra is one of the most widespread plant genera globally, particularly abundant on Pacific oceanic islands.
- Many species are endemic, often restricted to a single island or specific area.
- Examples of locations mentioned include Hawaii, West Maui, and Mt. Kanlaon.
Morphological Characteristics
- Flowers of Gesneriaceae, including Cyrtandra, consist of fused petals forming a sympetalous corolla, whorls of stamens, and tubular flowers in some species.
- Species like Cyrtandra baileyi usually flowers and fruits as a shrub, growing 2-3 meters tall.
- Some species have single flowers, while others have branched clusters of 7-12 flowers.
Ecology
- Habitat degradation caused by feral pigs threatens some species, such as Cyrtandra dentata.
- Cyrtandra platyphylla flowers attract Scaptomyza cyrtandrae flies.
Specific Species Examples:
- Cyrtandra hematos (Single-flower Cyrtandra):
- Synonym: Cyrtandra st-johnii W.L. Wagner & Herbst
- Flowers are single and on pedicels.
- Cyrtandra grandiflora: Flowering is correlated with a relatively dry period.
- Cyrtandra polyantha: Exhibits 7 to 12 flowers grouped in branched clusters.
- Cyrtandra munroi: Found in Lanai and a single location on West Maui.
- Cyrtandra platyphylla: Associated with Scaptomyza cyrtandrae flies; one form is Cyrtandra platyphylla sty- lopubens forma.
- Cyrtandra cordifolia: Flowers are pictured.
- Cyrtandra nukuhivensis: Reference to morphological structures includes Habit, Inflorescence, and Flower.
Further Information
- ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System) is referenced in relation to Cyrtandra hematos taxonomic status.