What is clermontia?

Clermontia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Gesneriaceae. The genus comprises around 20-25 species of shrubs and small trees that are native to the Hawaiian Islands. The plants typically have bright green leaves and produce showy, bell-shaped flowers that come in a range of colors, including red, pink, white, and yellow.

Many species of Clermontia have undergone significant declines in recent decades due to habitat loss, invasive species, and the spread of plant diseases. As a result, several species are now classified as endangered or critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Despite their conservation status, Clermontia are popular ornamental plants, especially in Hawaii. They are not commonly grown outside of their native range, however, as they have strict soil and cultural requirements that can be difficult to replicate in other climates.