If you live on the coast, many native Hawaiian plants will thrive in that unique landscape. Here are a few you can take home to spruce up your outdoor environment.

3 Native Hawaiian Plants Perfect for Coastal Landscaping

1. Akia Kuahiwi

Considered a shrub and a tree, akia kuahiwi can reach up to 12 feet with yellow or bright green flowers. Once pollinated, it sprouts a red, yellow, or orange fruit. A favored foliage for decorating landscapes in Hawaii, it can be grown in a container, as hedges, or as ground cover. If taken from the Hawaiian environment, it’ll fare best as a specimen plant and can stand direct sunlight if watered regularly. 

2. Akoko

Akoko comes from the Hawaiian word koko, or blood. The plant is so named because of its red seeds. There are eight varieties spread through the islands: some are groundcover plants, which can reach as high as six feet, while the larger, lower elevation plants are more tree-like and can reach 30 feet tall. The groundcover has blue-green leaves and small flowers, which are barely noticeable unless viewed in large quantities. The plant is drought, wind, and salt-resistant, does well in direct or partial sun, and doesn’t require much watering. However, the soil should be well-drained.

3. Amau

The amau is a fern with curling fronds. When splayed, they’re bright red, but turn green as they age. Most species are found on the main islands, but two species are located only on Kauai. Although the plant can handle the direct sun, partly shaded or morning sun locations are best. It has a high tolerance to wind and must be watered frequently after the first planting. Once it’s taken root, soak it twice a week.

Find these coastal varieties and so many more at Hui Kū Maoli Ola Native Hawaiian Plant Specialists in Kaneohe, HI. With over 100 species of native plants and a wide assortment of Polynesian-introduced varieties, they’ll have just what you need for your next landscaping project. Learn more about their expansive collection of plants online, and call (808) 235-6165 to talk to a specialist about their landscaping services.