How to Grow Akeake
Akeake
Dodonaea viscosa
shrubAkeake is a versatile, evergreen shrub native to Hawaii and other Pacific regions, known for its attractive pinnate foliage and distinctive winged seed pods. It grows as a dense, compact shrub that tolerates poor soil conditions and coastal environments exceptionally well. The plant has been used traditionally in Hawaiian culture for woodcraft and is increasingly popular in ornamental landscaping.
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Example Akeake timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Akeake
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Akeake
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 9b-11, tolerates temperatures down to 20°F (-7°C) once established
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Get my Akeake timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
3-4 weeksTiny seedlings emerge with simple opposite leaves. Growth is slow initially. Plant appears delicate but is hardy.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright light. Protect from wind. Thin seedlings to strongest specimens.
Establishment & Root Development
4-6 monthsYoung plant develops a stronger root system and grows taller. Foliage becomes more dense and compound leaves develop fully.
Water regularly to establish deep roots. Provide light fertilization monthly if soil is poor. Mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsShrub develops full branching structure with glossy, sticky pinnate foliage (leaves are sticky when crushed, hence 'viscosa'). Plant becomes increasingly dense.
Water moderately during dry periods. Prune to shape as desired. No fertilizer needed once established. Plant is self-sufficient in natural conditions.
Flowering & Fruiting
4-6 monthsSmall, inconspicuous flowers appear (reddish or yellowish). Distinctive papery winged seed pods develop, which are decorative and persist on the plant.
Allow pods to mature and dry on plant. Collect seeds if desired for propagation. Prune selectively to maintain shape without removing many pods.
Mature Shrub
OngoingPlant reaches full ornamental size (typically 6-15 feet depending on variety and conditions). Remains evergreen and continuously produces foliage and seed pods.
Minimal maintenance required. Prune only for shape and size control. Very drought-tolerant once established. No regular fertilizer needed.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap in early morning. Repeat every 7-10 days if needed. Monitor regularly.
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Strong water spray to dislodge. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
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Increase humidity with water spray. Apply miticide if severe. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen.
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Ensure good air circulation. Apply sulfur-based fungicide or neem oil. Remove heavily infected leaves.
Uses
Ornamental Landscaping & Windbreaks
HouseholdAkeake is highly valued in landscaping for its attractive, fine-textured foliage and distinctive seed pods used in decorative arrangements. Its dense growth, salt tolerance, and drought resilience make it ideal for coastal gardens, xeriscapes, and as a natural windbreak in exposed locations. [source]
Traditional Hawaiian Woodcraft & Lei Making
CraftHistorically, akeake wood was used by Native Hawaiians for tool handles and other implements due to its hard, dense nature. Today, the distinctive winged seed pods are collected for lei making, dried arrangements, and other craft projects. [source]
Traditional Hawaiian Medicine & Herbal Remedies
MedicinalIn traditional Hawaiian medicine, akeake leaves and other plant parts have been used for various remedies. The plant contains bioactive compounds that have been studied for potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. [source]
Native Habitat & Pollinator Support
WildlifeAkeake serves as important native habitat in Hawaiian and other Pacific ecosystems, providing food and shelter for native birds and insects. Planting akeake supports conservation of native species and creates wildlife-friendly gardens. [source]
Low-Maintenance Coastal & Desert Gardening
HouseholdWith exceptional drought and salt tolerance, akeake requires minimal water, fertilizer, and maintenance once established, making it ideal for water-wise and sustainable landscaping in challenging environments. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Akeake is not harvested for food. For ornamental/craft purposes: collect mature, dried seed pods in late summer through fall when papery pods have turned brown and papery. Cut branches with pods for floral arrangements. For woodcraft, mature wood can be harvested sustainably from well-established plants.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 The name 'viscosa' refers to the sticky resin coating on the leaves and stems, which is especially noticeable when the foliage is crushed; this sticky quality helps the plant conserve water in its native dry environments.
- 🌱 Akeake is found naturally across Hawaii, the Pacific Islands, Australia, and other regions, making it one of the most widespread native plants in the Pacific; different regional populations have adapted to local conditions.
- 🌱 The distinctive papery, winged seed pods are uniquely shaped and can persist on the plant for months, making akeake visually interesting year-round; these pods are often called 'hopbush' seeds in non-Hawaiian contexts.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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