Q. What is the most spectacular flower you've ever seen?

A. That's a tough question, isn't it? There are so many to choose from.

If I had to define "spectacular" by color, one of my top choices would be the flowers of the jade vine (Strongylodon macrobotrys).

Individual, upward-facing, claw-like flowers grow in clusters that reach 3 to 4 feet in length, sometimes even longer. The "wow" factor comes from the unbelievable aqua/powder-blue color that is considered unique in the plant world. The color is so unreal that it seems as if the flowers have been spray-painted!

Native to the humid tropical forests of the Philippines, the ropey vines climb trees to a height of 50 feet or more. This legume, or member of the pea family, is threatened in the wild, due primarily to loss of its native habitat. Fortunately, it survives, and even thrives, in individual and botanical gardens throughout the world.

In Hawai'i, the jade vine was first introduced in the 1950s. Donated to Foster Botanical Garden, a single plant is reported to be the mother plant of others distributed throughout the Islands.

Jade plants can be propagated by air layers, cuttings from semi-hard wood, or mature, fresh seeds. Plants grow best in partial to full sun with plenty of water. As can be expected of climbing plants, the jade vine requires support for growth. A sturdy arbor, trellis, or chain-link fence would do the job.

There are 15 to 20 different kinds of Strongylodon that are native to areas ranging from Asia to Madagascar and Polynesia. The Philippines can lay claim to eight native species.

Not to be left behind, however, Hawai'i is home to one species that is found nowhere else: the nuku 'i'iwi (S. ruber). It can be found climbing over trees in wet to moderately wet areas of O'ahu, Kaua'i, Maui, Moloka'i and the Big Island at elevations of 500 to 2,400 feet. Flowers are shaped similar to those of the jade vine, but are smaller and a vibrant orangey-red color.

The flowering period for the jade vine is just beginning. If you haven't seen this plant in bloom, visit Wahiawa or Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden. You're in for a visual treat!