In the Garden
‘IHI
HUI KU MAOLI OLA
'Ihi is for sale at The Home Depot for $2.77 for a limited time.
Portulaca lutea IHI are prostrate (trailing) herbs with thick stems and tightly arranged, alternating leaves which are rounded and succulent (similar in appearance to the dwarf jade plant). A long stem holding a cluster of yellow flowers protrudes from the top of the leaves.Distribution: This plant naturally exists on coastal and strand habitats, growing in mediums such as lava, raised coral reefs, sand and soil. It is found on the majority of the Northwestern Hawaiian islands as well as Oahu, Molokai, Maui, Lanai and Hawaii.
Landscape use and care: This species of 'ihi, like most others, prefers full sun with only occasional watering. Daily watering is not recommended; instead, soak the ground every two to three days to give the soil time to dry. Sandy soil is preferred for good drainage. When given daily watering, the plant will "take off," becoming large and healthy looking.
Although, it looks nice at that point, the plant becomes "soft" and appetizing for pests. When in its natural state, few pests bother it, although mealy bugs are sometimes noticed at the leaf axis. These can be removed by hand or sprayed with pesticide. If the situation looks out of control, simply cut off infected areas and allow the plant to grow back, keeping an eye on it to prevent future infestations.
Plant 'ihi as a bedding plant or at the base of larger landscape stones. They also look great in soil pockets between rock clusters. When in bloom, their yellow flowers stand out against the darker rocks.
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