How to Grow ʻAkulikuli
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ʻAkulikuli
Sesuvium portulacastrum
herbʻAkulikuli is a succulent groundcover native to Hawaii and other tropical coastal regions, featuring small fleshy leaves and delicate pink or magenta flowers. This salt-tolerant plant was traditionally used as a nutritious food source and medicinal herb by Native Hawaiians. It thrives in harsh coastal environments where many other plants struggle, making it an excellent choice for difficult garden spots.
When should you plant ʻAkulikuli in your zone?
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Example ʻAkulikuli timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant ʻAkulikuli
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 ʻAkulikuli
Around May 17≈ 30 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact ʻAkulikuli dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10-13; can be grown as an annual or container plant in cooler zones
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Get my ʻAkulikuli timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
2-3 weeksTiny seedlings with initial fleshy leaves emerge within 7-14 days under warm, moist conditions
Keep soil lightly moist but not waterlogged; provide warmth (70-80°F); thin seedlings to prevent crowding
Vegetative Growth
3-4 weeksPlant develops low-growing mat of succulent, spatula-shaped leaves; stems spread horizontally and root at nodes
Establish regular light watering schedule; reduce watering as plant matures and becomes more drought-tolerant; pinch back tips to encourage bushiness
Flowering
4-8 weeks (begins around 6-8 weeks, extends through growing season)Small pink, magenta, or occasionally white flowers appear along stems; flowers are delicate and numerous
Continue regular care; flowering indicates plant vigor and healthy growth; allow some flowers to remain for seed production if desired
Leaf Harvest & Maintenance
Continuous during warm seasonPlant continues producing new leaves and stems; can be harvested regularly without harming overall plant vigor
Pinch off leaves and tender stems regularly for culinary use; harvesting encourages bushier growth; reduce water in dry season
Dormancy (Cool Climates)
3-4 months in winterIn zones below 10, plant dies back or severely slows growth during winter months
In frost-prone areas, bring container plants indoors or harvest before first frost; mulch heavily in marginal zones; can be regrown from cuttings
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; remove affected leaves; improve air circulation
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Increase humidity through misting; use neem oil spray; ensure adequate air circulation
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Prune affected stems; spray with horticultural oil; monitor regularly for early detection
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and
(in moist conditions)
Remove by hand; reduce irrigation; use copper barriers or organic slug bait if necessary
Uses
Traditional Hawaiian vegetable
CulinaryʻAkulikuli leaves and stems are edible and were traditionally cooked as a nutritious green vegetable in Hawaiian cuisine. The tender young leaves have a slightly salty, succulent flavor and can be eaten raw in salads or cooked in stir-fries, soups, and traditional Hawaiian dishes. [source]
Potential anti-inflammatory properties
MedicinalTraditional Hawaiian medicine used ʻAkulikuli to support overall wellness and address inflammation. Modern research suggests the plant contains compounds with potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, though more study is needed. [source]
Salt-tolerant coastal landscaping
HouseholdExcellent groundcover for coastal gardens, salt-spray areas, and difficult growing conditions where standard plants fail. Its tolerance to salt, drought, heat, and poor soil makes it ideal for seaside properties and low-maintenance sustainable landscaping. [source]
Erosion control and restoration
HouseholdUsed in native habitat restoration projects and erosion control along Hawaiian coastlines due to its spreading growth habit and ability to establish in degraded coastal soils. The plant stabilizes soil while requiring minimal maintenance or inputs. [source]
Pollinator support
WildlifeThe flowers attract native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, making it valuable for supporting pollinator populations in coastal gardens. Seeds also provide food for birds. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Harvest leaves and tender stem tips regularly once plant is established (4-6 weeks after planting). Pinch off 2-4 inches from stem tips; this encourages bushier growth and continuous production. Younger leaves are more tender and mild-flavored. Can be harvested throughout warm months; in cooler climates, harvest before first frost. Harvest in morning after dew dries for best flavor and texture.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 ʻAkulikuli is one of the few vegetables that was extensively cultivated by ancient Hawaiians and remains an important part of Hawaiian cultural food heritage and traditional knowledge systems.
- 🌱 The plant is sometimes called 'sea purslane' and is related to common purslane (Portulaca oleracea); both are succulent plants that store water in their leaves, making them naturally drought-tolerant.
- 🌱 ʻAkulikuli has been used in Pacific Island and tropical coastal regions worldwide for thousands of years, indicating its remarkable ability to adapt and thrive in harsh maritime environments where few other food plants can survive.
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