Puakauhi

Canavalia hawaiiensis

Native to:
Hawaii

📍 View on iNaturalist →

Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Fabaceae
Genus:
Canavalia
Species:
Canavalia hawaiiensis
USDA Symbol:
CAHA12

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb , Vine
Height:
300 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
Medium
Bloom Months:
may,jun,jul,aug,sep
Bloom Colors:
purple, pink

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, butterflies

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to coastal and dry forest areas

Propagation & Germination

Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Germination Time:
7–21 days
Notes:
Seeds benefit from scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) to break hard seed coat.