SafePlants

Cyrtandra: A Diverse Genus of Flowering Plants

The genus Cyrtandra encompasses approximately 600 species of flowering plants, primarily found in the Pacific region.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Cyrtandra J.R. & G. Forst.
• Family: Gesneriaceae (African Violet family)
• Synonyms: The text references several species and varieties, suggesting complex taxonomic relationships within the genus. Examples include:
  • Cyrtandra longifolia Hillebr. var. degenerans C. B. Clarke (as a synonym of Cyrtandra paludosa)
  • Cyrtandra subumbellata - (Hbd.) St. John & Storey
  • Cyrtandra crenata - St. John & Storey

Distribution and Habitat

Cyrtandra species are prominently found in the Hawaiian Islands, particularly on Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii. Specific locations mentioned include:

• Oahu: Koolau Mountains, Pia Gulch, Palolo Valley, Kahana Valley
• Maui
• Hawaii
• Kohala Mountain

Habitats range from dry to mesic forests and shrublands, as well as disturbed areas and along roadsides. Some species are endemic to specific islands or mountain ranges.

Morphological Characteristics

• Some Cyrtandra species, such as Cyrtandra kalihii, are shrubs ranging from 1 to 5 meters tall with stems that are unbranched to few-branched.
• Cyrtandra cordifolia is noted for its hairy corollas (petals).

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Cyrtandra platyphylla is mentioned as being associated with the insect *Nesosydne acuta*.

Resources and Further Information

• Discover Life offers a page about the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Cyrtandra laxiflora.
• ResearchGate hosts a book review of "Monograph of Cyrtandra (Gesneriaceae) on Oahu, Hawaiian Islands" by Harold St. John.
• The University of Hawai'i at Hilo is conducting research on nuclear loci in Cyrtandra.
• Bernice P. Bishop Museum is mentioned as a contributor to research on Cyrtandra.