How to Grow Hawaiian Naupaka
iNaturalist
Hawaiian Naupaka
Scaevola taccada
shrubHawaiian naupaka is a salt-tolerant, evergreen shrub native to Hawaiian coastal areas and found throughout the Indo-Pacific region. It produces distinctive white or purple flowers with an unusual asymmetrical, fan-like shape and thrives in sandy, salt-spray environments. This hardy plant is valued for its ornamental appeal and cultural significance in Hawaii.
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Example Hawaiian Naupaka timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Hawaiian Naupaka
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 Hawaiian Naupaka
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 10-11; can survive zone 9b with protection
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Get my Hawaiian Naupaka timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling & Establishment
3-6 monthsYoung plants are small with tender green foliage. Growth is slow initially.
Keep soil lightly moist but not waterlogged. Provide afternoon shade in very hot climates. Protect from strong winds until established.
Vegetative Growth
6-12 monthsPlant develops a compact, spreading form with glossy green leaves (or silvery-green in some cultivars). Branching increases.
Water regularly during first year to establish deep roots. Prune to shape if desired. Minimal fertilizer needed.
Flowering
Continuous throughout growing seasonDistinctive fan-shaped, asymmetrical flowers appear in white, pink, or purple depending on variety. Flowers bloom year-round in warm climates, with peaks in spring and summer.
Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming. Provide full sun for best flower production. No special feeding required.
Fruiting
2-3 months after floweringSmall, fleshy white fruits (drupes) develop after pollination. Fruits are relatively inconspicuous.
Fruits attract birds. Allow some fruit to remain for wildlife; remove if you wish to redirect energy to flowering.
Mature Shrub
Ongoing, 5+ yearsFully established plant reaches 3-6 feet tall and wide with dense foliage and prolific flowering.
Minimal maintenance required. Prune only to remove dead wood or shape. Extremely salt and wind-tolerant.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity and air circulation
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Use yellow sticky traps; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap
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Remove by hand or prune affected branches; apply horticultural oil in dormant season
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Dab with rubbing alcohol on cotton swab; spray with neem oil for heavy infestations
Uses
Lei and Floral Arrangements
CraftThe distinctive fan-shaped flowers are prized for Hawaiian lei and floral arrangements. The flowers' unique asymmetrical shape makes them instantly recognizable and valued in traditional Hawaiian crafts. [source]
Hawaiian Cultural Significance
CulturalNaupaka holds deep cultural meaning in Hawaii, associated with Hawaiian legends and used traditionally in ceremonies and celebrations. It is a symbol of resilience and adaptation to harsh coastal environments. [source]
Pollinator and Bird Support
WildlifeThe flowers attract native Hawaiian birds and pollinators, while the fruits are consumed by birds. It provides valuable habitat and food sources for local wildlife. [source]
Coastal Landscape Ornamental
HouseholdIdeal for salt-tolerant, low-maintenance coastal gardens and seaside properties. Its drought tolerance and resistance to salt spray make it perfect for beachfront landscaping without irrigation. [source]
Traditional Hawaiian Remedy
MedicinalIn traditional Hawaiian medicine (lā'au lapa'au), naupaka has been used for various remedies, though scientific validation is limited. Leaves were historically applied topically and prepared as infusions. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Not harvested in the traditional sense. Prune branches for ornamental use as needed. In Hawaiian tradition, flowers and leaves are used fresh for lei-making and are best harvested in early morning. Cut flowers last several days in water.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Naupaka flowers are uniquely asymmetrical, blooming only on one half of the flower face—a distinctive characteristic that makes them instantly recognizable.
- 🌱 According to Hawaiian legend, naupaka represents a tragic love story; the plant was split in two by a kahuna (priest), with one variety growing on beaches (naupaka kahakai) and another in mountains (naupaka kuahiwi), forever separated.
- 🌱 The name 'naupaka' comes from Hawaiian and the plant is found across the Indo-Pacific, from Hawaii to India, making it one of the most widespread tropical coastal plants.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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