Pohinahina spectacular
in bloom

Description: A sprawling shrub that grows 2 to 3 feet tall, with rounded leaves that are silvery green on top and whitish underneath. Small purple flowers form clusters that emerge at the plant's top and sit in a pocket of leaves. A large area in full bloom is definitely a striking sight to behold.

HUI KU MAOLI OLA

Distribution: This is an indigenous plant, meaning that it is native to Hawaii and other parts of the Pacific, including Japan. Here, it is found on sandy coasts of all the main islands except Kahoolawe, although it might have occurred there in the past.

Cultural uses: This plant's fragrant leaves can be layered between folded kapa to repel insects, but these days, I guess you can put them in your underwear drawers. The leaves and flowers can also be arranged in head leis (lei po'o).

Landscape uses and care: This is an excellent plant to use to stabilize soil. As it grows, the branches lean over and root at the nodes that touch the ground. They make excellent ground covers for slopes in need of erosion control.

Generally, pohinahina are quick growers that require very little water. They thrive in full sun. These plants respond well to pruning and can be shaped into a low hedge. They also look great in pots on a lanai. To cover large areas, space plants two feet apart; they'll fill in just fine.

Few pests are known to bother this plant, which I often refer to as being "bulletproof" because it is so hardy and easy to maintain. If you kill this plant then yes, your thumbs are brown.

Also: Outside of Oahu, this plant might be better known by one of its other names: kolokolo kahakai, hinahina kolo, manawanawa or mawanawana.