Landscaping in Hawaii: The Best Plants

Native species make ideal plants for landscaping in Hawaii.

The best plants for landscaping in Hawaii include native species that offer ease of propagation, longevity in the landscape and aesthetic value, according to the University of Hawaii. Obtaining plants from commercially cultivated sources helps keep the plants from becoming depleted in the wild.

Groundcovers

A variety of groundcovers work well in landscaping, according to the University of Hawaii, including 'Akia, with its oval, waxy green leaves and small yellow flowers. 'Ilima papa, another low groundcover, features bright yellow flowers resembling miniature hibiscus.

Herbs

'Ihi, a succulent herb, features yellow flowers that grow on stems up to 12 inches in height. Another herb plant, 'ala'ala wai nui, produces small leaves with red markings and tiny flowers found on thin spikes. Related to black pepper, the plant grows in the wild on the moist trunks of trees or on rocks and boulders, according to the University of Hawaii.

Shrubs

Several shrubs make great choices for landscaping, according to the University of Hawaii, including pohinahina. Pohinahina grows as a small shrub, although it also sees use as a groundcover. The plant grows up to 2 feet high with silvery leaves with a hint of lavender near the edges. Another shrub, Rock's Kaua'i hibiscus, produces large yellow blossoms on a plant that reaches up to 4 feet tall. Hawaiian white hibiscus features delicate, fragrant white flowers on plants that reach up to 20 feet in height.

References

• University of Hawaii at Manoa Extension Service: Native Hawaiian Plants for Landscaping, Conservation, and Reforestation; Heidi L. Bornhorst and Fred D. Rauch; 2003

Resources

• University of Hawaii at Manoa Extension Service: Best Native Plants for Landscapes; Melvin Wong