Taxonomy

Division:

Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants

Family:

Fabaceae

Genus:

Canavalia

Species:

Canavalia kauaiensis

USDA Symbol:

CAKA3

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Growth Habit:

Forb/herb , Vine

Height:

300 cm

Light Requirements:

Full Sun

Drought Tolerance:

Medium

Bloom Months:

mar,apr,may,jun,jul,aug,sep,oct

Bloom Colors:

pink, purple

Wildlife Benefits

Butterflies & Moths:

★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:

birds, butterflies

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:

rich, well-drained volcanic soil

pH:

5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)

Drainage:

excellent drainage required

Moisture:

consistently moist

Notes:

native to Hawaiian islands, prefers volcanic soils

Propagation & Germination

Scarification:

Seed coat scarification required before sowing

Germination Time:

14–30 days

Notes:

Seeds benefit from scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) to break hard seed coat.