How to Grow Pu'u wa'awa'a catchfly
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Pu'u wa'awa'a catchfly
Silene remyi
flowerSilene remyi is a rare, endemic Hawaiian wildflower belonging to the carnation family, characterized by delicate pink or white flowers and narrow linear leaves. This critically endangered species is native to the volcanic slopes of Hawaii's Big Island, where it grows in harsh, arid conditions. It is highly specialized for its native habitat and extremely challenging to cultivate outside its natural environment.
When should you plant Pu'u wa'awa'a catchfly in your zone?
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Example Pu'u wa'awa'a catchfly timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Pu'u wa'awa'a catchfly
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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First Pu'u wa'awa'a catchfly blooms
Around Aug 15≈ 120 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10b-11, requiring warm, frost-free conditions year-round
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Get my Pu'u wa'awa'a catchfly timeline →Growth Stages
Germination
3-4 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with simple cotyledons and fine linear leaves beginning to form
Keep soil barely moist (not wet), provide bright light, maintain warm temperatures (70-80°F). Germination is slow and irregular.
Seedling Development
4-8 weeksYoung plants develop characteristic narrow, needle-like leaves and establish a small root system
Maintain excellent drainage, gradually reduce watering frequency, avoid fertilizer, ensure maximum light exposure
Vegetative Growth
2-4 monthsPlant forms a compact rosette or low mound of linear foliage, slowly establishing a deep root system
Continue minimal watering, provide full intense sun, avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers which promote soft growth susceptible to rot
Flowering
4-8 weeksDelicate pink or white flowers appear in small clusters on thin stems rising above the foliage, typically with five petals
Maintain strict drought conditions, provide full sun, avoid overhead watering which can promote fungal issues on flowers
Seed Production
3-4 weeksFlowers develop into seed capsules containing numerous tiny black seeds
Allow seeds to mature fully before harvesting, keep plant dry, collect seeds once capsules begin to split
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with water to dislodge; use insecticidal soap if severe. Ensure good air circulation and avoid over-humid conditions.
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Prevent through excellent drainage and drought-appropriate watering. Remove affected plants immediately. Use well-draining soil mix.
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Remove with rubbing alcohol on cotton swab. Improve air circulation and avoid over-watering.
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Improve air circulation, avoid wetting foliage, remove affected leaves. Use sulfur dust if necessary.
Uses
Hawaiian native habitat restoration
WildlifeSilene remyi is a critically endangered endemic species essential for restoring the unique Hawaiian dryland ecosystem. Cultivation and propagation efforts support conservation programs aimed at protecting this species from extinction. [source]
Ornamental alpine/dryland gardening
CraftThe delicate pink flowers and fine foliage make this plant valuable for specialized rock gardens, alpine troughs, and drought-tolerant ornamental displays. It appeals to collectors of rare Hawaiian natives and extreme plant enthusiasts. [source]
Low-maintenance container specimen
HouseholdSilene remyi thrives in well-draining containers placed in full sun, making it suitable for water-conscious gardeners and those in arid climates. Its minimal care requirements make it ideal for unattended locations. [source]
Traditional Hawaiian ethnobotany
MedicinalLike many Silene species, S. remyi may have been used in traditional Hawaiian plant medicine, though specific traditional uses are not well-documented in modern sources. Research into Hawaiian ethnobotany continues to explore potential medicinal applications. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Allow flowers to fully develop and set seed if seed collection is the goal. Harvest seed capsules once they begin to brown and split naturally, typically 3-4 weeks after flowering. Collect seeds in late afternoon when capsules are driest. Store seeds in a cool, dry location.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Silene remyi is one of Hawaii's most critically endangered plants, with fewer than 100 individuals known to exist in the wild, making it one of the rarest flowering plants in the United States.
- 🌱 This species is found only on the volcanic slopes of Pu'u Wa'awa'a on the Big Island of Hawaii, where it grows in harsh, nutrient-poor lava rock with virtually no soil—an extreme microhabitat it has adapted to over millions of years.
- 🌱 The genus Silene contains over 700 species worldwide and is notable for the unusual shapes and structures of many flowers in the group; Hawaiian endemic Silene species are of particular scientific interest for studying plant adaptation and evolution in island ecosystems.
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