How to Grow Dubautia ciliolata
Dubautia ciliolata
Dubautia ciliolata
shrubDubautia ciliolata, commonly known as Hawaiian dubautia or silversword alliance member, is a rare endemic shrub found only in Hawaii. This small, cushion-forming plant features distinctive silvery, finely-hairy leaves and produces small yellow flowers. It is adapted to high-altitude, harsh alpine environments on Hawaiian volcanoes.
When should you plant Dubautia ciliolata in your zone?
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Example Dubautia ciliolata timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Dubautia ciliolata
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 Dubautia ciliolata
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10b-11 (Hawaii and warm microclimates only)
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Get my Dubautia ciliolata timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
4-8 weeksTiny rosette forms with fine, hairy leaves emerging from soil. Very slow initial growth.
Keep soil lightly moist but well-draining; provide bright, indirect light initially. Protect from direct sun stress during germination.
Juvenile rosette
6-12 monthsCushion-forming rosette develops with characteristic silvery, ciliated leaves clustered in tight mound.
Gradually increase light to full sun. Reduce watering frequency as plant establishes. Ensure excellent drainage.
Vegetative growth
1-2 yearsPlant develops dense cushion form; leaves thicken and multiply. No flowering yet. Growth remains slow.
Maintain excellent drainage and full sun exposure. Minimal fertilization needed; avoid excessive nitrogen. Monitor for pests in moist conditions.
Flowering
4-8 weeksSmall clusters of yellow flowers appear at center or margins of rosette. Flowering indicates maturity.
Maintain consistent care; do not disturb flowering plants. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues. Allow seeds to develop if desired.
Seed maturation
6-10 weeksFlowers fade; seed capsules develop and ripen, turning brown and dry.
Reduce water slightly. Collect mature seeds for propagation before plants senesce. This is a monocarpic or short-lived species.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; improve air circulation; isolate infested plants
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Improve drainage immediately; reduce watering frequency; use sterile soil mix; remove affected roots
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Increase humidity slightly; spray with water mist; use miticide if severe; ensure good air circulation
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Scrape off by hand; spray with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; monitor regularly
Uses
Hawaiian ecosystem restoration
WildlifeDubautia ciliolata is a critically endangered endemic species essential for Hawaiian alpine ecosystem conservation. Growing and propagating this plant supports biodiversity restoration and native Hawaiian plant preservation efforts. [source]
Botanical collection and alpine gardening
CraftRare alpine plant for specialized collectors and botanical gardens. Its distinctive silvery foliage and compact form make it valuable for xeriscaping and alpine plant displays. [source]
Low-maintenance ornamental
HouseholdOnce established, this drought-tolerant shrub requires minimal watering and fertilization, making it ideal for water-wise landscaping and rock gardens. [source]
Hawaiian traditional plant knowledge
MedicinalPart of Hawaiian botanical heritage and traditional ecological knowledge systems. Used in cultural and educational contexts related to Hawaiian ethnobotany. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
This is not a harvest plant in traditional sense. Collect mature seeds in late summer/fall when seed capsules turn brown and dry. Allow seeds to fully ripen before harvesting. Seeds are tiny and should be collected carefully. Propagation by seed is primary reproduction method.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Dubautia ciliolata is part of the silversword alliance, a remarkable Hawaiian adaptive radiation of plants descended from a single tarweed ancestor, demonstrating spectacular species diversification on isolated islands.
- 🌱 This species is critically endangered in its native Hawaiian alpine habitat, found only on high-elevation volcanic slopes where it is threatened by invasive plants, climate change, and feral ungulates.
- 🌱 The fine hairs (cilia) covering its leaves give this plant its species name and serve as an adaptation to intense alpine UV radiation and harsh mountain conditions in Hawaii.
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