In the Garden
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The flowers of 'ohai are strung into beautiful leis, usually Maunaloa style. If you hold the 'ohai flower by its stem and hit the top of it with your other hand, a few drops of sweet nectar will come out that you can lick.
The plant known as 'ohai alii, also used for lei, is not native. It was given that name because its leaves resemble those of the native 'ohai and its flowers are red and yellow, the colors of alii.
The 'ohai is available at most garden shops, including Home Depot.
Description: This is a beautiful, low-sprawling shrub that grows up to 2 to 3 feet high and is highly aromatic, with a scent similar to a nectarine. When in the full sun, the leaves appear silvery and the flowers an amazing pink.
Distribution: Many varieties of this plant are found on most of the islands, but this variety occurs only on Kaena Point on Oahu.
Landscape uses and care: This plant does best in full sun with minimal watering and well-drained soil.
When planted around rocks or against dark backgrounds, the leaves of this plant stand out.
Another reason to plant 'ohai in full sun is to maximize its fragrance potential. This plant will emit its scent, which comes from the leaves, only when the sun shines directly on it.
