Native Greenery

Mamaki shrubs are only found in Hawaii, and some can grow up to 15 feet tall. The plant is a staple in the Hawaiian household, and its leaves are dried to make an herbal tea that has purported healing properties, including lowering blood pressure and regulating sugar levels. Mamaki is a wonderfully useful addition to any home garden.

More commonly known today as ti, ki plants are great to use as hedges and as decorative fillers. The plant’s leaves are used for many things, including wrapping food for cooking and making lei; ancient Hawaiians also used the plant for clothing and thatching. Ki thrives in full sun or partial shade in wind-protected areas. Phanphongsa recommends watering ki less frequently in colder months.

This shrub boasts bright yellow flowers that encapsulate and turn into dry seeds. Once the seeds are dry, they open to reveal small cotton balls within their hard shells. Its flowers were traditionally used as a green dye. According to Phanphongsa, mao is great for creating a low and dense perimeter in your backyard. It doesn’t require a lot of water and is easy to maintain, she says. Mao thrives in full sun.

This shrub can grow 2 to 3 feet tall with aromatic leaves, likened to the scent of sage when crushed. Its blue-violet flowers are dainty and bell-shaped and are encased in silvery-green shrubbery. Phanphongsa notes that pohinahina grows quickly and doesn’t require a lot of water. If you are looking for plants to serve as ground cover for slopes, especially in areas that need help with erosion control, pohinahina will work for you. This plant can handle both salt air and heat.

Kalo is the cornerstone of Hawaii’s food landscape, most famously used to make lau lau and poi. And with more than a hundred varieties, choosing your favorite might be tough. City Mill carries three varieties of kalo that can only be found in Hawaii. Phanphongsa notes that kalo is relatively easy to maintain — just make sure it is well-watered and well-weeded.