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How to Grow Scabrous Dubautia

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Scabrous Dubautia

Dubautia scabra

shrub

Dubautia scabra is a rare endemic shrub native to the Hawaiian Islands, particularly found on the volcanic slopes of Maui and Hawaii. This small woody plant features rough, scabrous (rough-textured) leaves and produces small yellow flowers typical of the Asteraceae family. It is adapted to harsh, dry volcanic environments and is considered vulnerable in its native habitat.

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Example Scabrous Dubautia timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

  1. Plant Scabrous Dubautia

    Around Apr 17

    Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.

  2. Tend & protect

    Late spring–summer

    Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.

  3. Harvest Scabrous Dubautia

    Late summer into fall

    Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Scabrous Dubautia dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

☀️
Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily minimum; prefers bright, intense light
💧
Water: Low water needs once established; drought-tolerant. Water moderately during growing season, reduce in winter. Avoid waterlogging.
📏
Spacing: 24 inches
📅
Days to maturity: Not typically grown from seed; mature shrub form develops over 2-3 years
🌱
Planting depth: Same depth as nursery pot; shallow planting preferred

Soil

Type: Well-draining volcanic or sandy soil, tolerant of poor, rocky substrates
pH: 6.0-7.5
Amendments:
Perlite or pumice for drainage Aged compost (minimal) Lava rock mulch

Growing Zones

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Thrives in USDA zones 10-11; requires frost-free, warm climates

10a 10b 11a 11b

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Growth Stages

1

Establishment

4-6 weeks

Young plant settling into soil with minimal new growth visible; root system developing

Water moderately for first 4-6 weeks; provide afternoon shade in very hot climates; avoid fertilizing

2

Vegetative Growth

6-12 months

Plant develops branching structure with scabrous foliage; compact, woody growth pattern

Allow soil to dry between waterings; light pruning to shape; minimal fertilizer if needed

3

Flowering

4-8 weeks

Small clusters of yellow flowers appear at branch tips, typically in spring to early summer

Maintain dry conditions; do not overwater during bloom; deadheading optional

4

Seed Development

8-12 weeks

Small seeds develop in tiny fruits following pollination; plant becomes more compact

Reduce watering; allow natural drying; seeds mature slowly in dry conditions

5

Maturity

Ongoing

Established woody shrub with characteristic rough-textured foliage and irregular branching

Minimal maintenance; water during severe drought only; prune for shape if desired

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Santalum paniculatum (Hawaiian sandalwood) Myrsine lessertiana (Hawaiian myrsine) Coprosma species (Hawaiian coprosma) Leptecophylla tameiameiae (Hawaiian cranberry) Drought-tolerant native Hawaiian plants

Avoid planting near:

Water-demanding plants Shade-producing dense shrubs Plants requiring frequent irrigation

Common Pests

  • Occasional misting; neem oil spray if severe; usually minimal in dry climates

  • Horticultural oil spray; hand removal; ensure good air circulation

  • Maintain plant vigor; remove infested branches; no chemical control typically needed

Uses

🦋

Native Hawaiian Habitat Support

Wildlife

Dubautia scabra is part of the native Hawaiian dryland forest ecosystem and provides food and shelter for endemic Hawaiian birds and insects. Its presence supports biodiversity in its limited native range. [source]

🏠

Ornamental Specimen for Dry Gardens

Household

Its compact growth, interesting textured foliage, and cheerful yellow spring flowers make it a striking addition to rock gardens, xeriscapes, and tropical dry garden displays. [source]

🎨

Conservation and Ethnobotany Interest

Craft

Dubautia scabra holds significance for Hawaiian cultural heritage and plant conservation efforts, making it valuable to botanical gardens and native plant enthusiasts focused on Hawaiian biodiversity. [source]

Harvest Tips

Not typically harvested. Seeds may be collected in late summer/fall for propagation; allow seed heads to fully dry on plant before collecting.

Fun Facts

  • 🌱 Dubautia scabra is endemic to Hawaii and represents part of the remarkable silversword alliance (Argyroxiphium-Dubautia-Wilkesia complex), a group of Hawaiian plants that evolved from a single mainland tarweed ancestor.
  • 🌱 The genus Dubautia contains over 20 species found only in Hawaii, making it one of the most diverse endemic plant genera in the islands.
  • 🌱 The species name 'scabra' refers to the rough, scabrous texture of its leaves, an adaptation that reduces water loss in the harsh, dry volcanic slopes where it naturally grows.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Deadhead Full Sun Pollination
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