SafePlants

Cyrtandra Species

This page compiles information about several Cyrtandra species, including Cyrtandra biserrata, Cyrtandra paludosa, Cyrtandra calpidicarpa, Cyrtandra cordifolia, Cyrtandra kamooloaensis, Cyrtandra tintinnabula, Cyrtandra subumbellata, Cyrtandra viridiflora, and Cyrtandra waiolani, primarily focusing on those sharing the common names "ha`iwale" and "kanawao ke`oke`o." It also references Broussaisia arguta, which shares the common name "Kanawao".

Common Names

• ha`iwale
• kanawao ke`oke`o
• hahala

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Family: Gesneriaceae (The African Violet Family)
• Taxonomic Rank: The text mentions variations within Cyrtandra paludosa, including variety paludosa and variety microcarpa.
• Synonyms/Related Names:
• Cyrtandra cyaneoides (related ITIS Name)
• Cyrtandra paludosa Gaud. (related ITIS Name)
• Gardenia remyi (mentioned in relation to common names)

Distribution and Habitat

• Endemic to the Hawaiian Islands.
• Specifically found on O'ahu (Ko: Waikane Kahana and Konahuanui on the windward side, Halemano).
• Grows at elevations between 1000-6000 feet.
• Prefers partial sun and well-drained, moist soil.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Cyrtandra can be shrubs or trees, ranging from 6' to 19' in height.
• Broussaisia arguta (also called kanawao) has large, oval, toothed leaves.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• The text mentions that the Broussaisia arguta Kanawao is pollinated by moths and bees.
• Nectar from the invasive banana poka is used alongside kanawao in traditional medicine.

Resources:

• National Tropical Botanical Garden (Ken Wood photo credit)
• ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System) Database
• Pukui and Elbert, 1986 (mentioned in relation to common names)