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Clavularia racemosa
A Clavularia soft coral with petal-like polyps, described by Utinomi in 1950. In Japan it occurs from Okinawa southward and is sold alongside the tubular clove polyp as a domestic-type clove polyp.
Clavularia racemosa is an octocoral of the family Clavulariidae described by Utinomi in 1950; its standard Japanese name on WoRMS is Hanazuta. It is a soft coral without a hard skeleton, noted for petal-like polyps, and in Japan it occurs from Okinawa southward (Toba Aquarium). Colonies in this family consist of separate retractable polyps rising from a creeping stolon or basal membrane, with tissues stiffened by sclerites (Wikipedia). Little has been published on its ecology or husbandry, so care has to be based on photosynthetic relatives such as the tubular clove polyp (C. inflata). Clavularia are often sold without a species name and are hard to tell apart by appearance, so check the scientific name and origin when buying. Toba Aquarium exhibits this species under the name Murasaki-hanazuta. In Japan specialist shops sometimes stock it as Hanazuta.
The ideal temperature for the Racemose Clove Polyp is 24〜27℃.
Origin
Japan (Okinawa and southward)
Lifespan
Little data available
Size
Little data available
Temperature
24〜27℃
Probably photosynthetic, but data are scarce
Sources: Toba Aquarium species guide (Clavularia racemosa) / WoRMS (Clavularia racemosa) / Wikipedia (Clavulariidae) / AlgaeBarn: Water Parameters 101
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
Domestic law: Soft corals of this group are not included in the 'reef-building corals' whose collection Okinawa prohibits (stony corals, blue coral, sea fans and others). Collecting in the sea may still fall under fishing rights or prefectural fisheries rules, and taking designated species in marine park zones requires a permit (Natural Parks Act, Art. 22).
Not listed in the CITES Appendices (checked on Species+). Not designated as an Invasive Alien Species under Japanese law.
Sources: Species+ (CITES search) / Ministry of the Environment: List of Designated Invasive Alien Species / Okinawa Prefecture: Collection of reef-building corals is prohibited / e-Gov: Natural Parks Act (Art. 22, marine park zones)
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Little is published on its light needs. Follow its photosynthetic relative C. inflata and adjust by how well the polyps open.
Like other clove polyps it spreads over rock by stolons, so attach it to a rock away from other corals.
A species of Okinawa and further south. Aim for 24-27°C and salinity 33-35 ppt (SG 1.023-1.025).
There is little information on feeding; at most try small amounts of fine particulate food while the polyps are open.
Clavularia are hard to identify by appearance and are sold under various names, so check the scientific name and origin when buying.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Racemose Clove Polyp is 24〜27℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
Racemose Clove Polyp feeds on: Probably photosynthetic, but data are scarce. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Racemose Clove Polyp varies significantly depending on variety, size, and individual quality. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 23, 2026