In the Garden
POHUEHUE
(Beach morning glory)
HUI KU MAOLI OLA
Ipomea pes-caprae subspecies brasiliensis The roots and leaves of the Pohuehue were pounded into a poultice for wounds and broken bones. Small amounts of roots and leaves were used as medicine and famine food. Too much, however, can be dangerous.
Pohuehue was also slapped on the surface of the ocean to encourage large surf when the waves were small.
Description: A prostrate vine that grows up to 30 feet long, with thick leaves and large purple/pink flowers with dark purple centers. In rare circumstances, flower petals may be white with purple centers.
Distribution: This indigenous plant is found throughout the tropics. Locally, it is naturally found on sandy beaches on all the main islands and a majority of the Northwestern Hawaiian islands.
Landscape uses and care: Pohuehue is an excellent ground cover for dry, sunny areas and requires little watering once established. Its large purple flowers add great color to any garden. This plant is a quick grower given daily watering but will fill in thicker with less watering and full sun. It is so attractive and easy to maintain, it's surprising that these plants aren't seen in more landscapes.
Rick Barboza co-owns Hui Ku Maoli Ola, a Native Hawaiian plant nursery, with Matt Schirman. "In the Garden" is a Friday feature.
Gardening Calendar
In the Garden runs Fridays in Today.
