How to Grow Native Hawaiian Ground Covers
Wikimedia Commons
Native Hawaiian Ground Covers
Various species (e.g., Lipochaeta, Ipomoea, Jacquemontia, Dubautia)
groundcoverNative Hawaiian ground covers encompass a diverse group of low-growing plants adapted to Hawaii's volcanic soils and tropical climate. These plants include creeping vines, prostrate shrubs, and herbaceous species that naturally stabilize slopes, prevent erosion, and support native ecosystems. They are drought-tolerant once established and require minimal maintenance in appropriate growing conditions.
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Example Native Hawaiian Ground Covers timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Native Hawaiian Ground Covers
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 Native Hawaiian Ground Covers
Around Jul 16≈ 90 days after planting
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Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10b-12, with some cold-hardy varieties to zone 9b. Best suited to tropical and subtropical climates.
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Get my Native Hawaiian Ground Covers timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
6-12 weeksYoung plants developing root systems and initial growth. Foliage appears sparse.
Water regularly to keep soil consistently moist (not soggy). Provide afternoon shade in hot climates. Mulch around base to retain moisture.
Vegetative Growth
8-16 weeksStems elongate and spread horizontally. Foliage fills in across planting area.
Reduce watering frequency as plants mature. Remove any weeds competing for space. Thin or prune if growth becomes too dense.
Flowering
2-6 months, often seasonalSmall to medium flowers appear on stems. Colors vary by species (yellows, purples, pinks, whites).
Continue moderate watering. Deadheading encourages more blooms. Do not fertilize heavily, as this reduces flowering.
Full Coverage
Ongoing, maintenance phaseDense mat of foliage completely covers soil. Plant has achieved mature spread.
Water only during dry spells. Minimal fertilization needed. Prune or shear back annually to maintain shape and vigor.
Maintenance
Year-roundEstablished ground cover requiring only periodic care.
Remove dead or diseased stems. Control invasive weeds at edges. Light trimming in spring promotes bushiness.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs.
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Increase humidity through misting. Use neem oil or sulfur spray. Remove heavily infested leaves.
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Wipe affected areas with alcohol-soaked cotton swabs. Apply horticultural oil or neem oil.
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Prune out heavily infested stems. Apply dormant oil in winter. Spray with neem oil during growing season.
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and
Remove manually, especially at dusk. Use copper barriers or diatomaceous earth around plantings.
Uses
Native Ecosystem Support
EcologicalNative Hawaiian ground covers provide habitat and food sources for endangered native birds, insects, and pollinators. They help restore and stabilize degraded Hawaiian landscapes. [source]
Erosion Control & Landscaping
HouseholdThese plants are excellent for stabilizing volcanic slopes and preventing soil erosion. They provide attractive, low-maintenance landscaping suitable for Hawaii's climate. [source]
Traditional Hawaiian Medicine
MedicinalSome native ground covers were used traditionally by Native Hawaiians for healing preparations, though modern use is limited. Scientific research continues on their medicinal properties. [source]
Horticultural & Cultural Value
CraftNative ground covers are prized by native plant enthusiasts and cultural practitioners. Growing them supports Hawaiian cultural practices and native plant restoration efforts. [source]
Pollinator Habitat
WildlifeFlowering native ground covers attract native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators essential to Hawaii's ecosystems. They provide critical forage for rare endemic insects. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Native Hawaiian ground covers are not typically harvested for food. Collect seeds from mature plants in late summer/fall for propagation. Prune back 25-50% annually in spring to rejuvenate growth and maintain vigor. Cut stems can be rooted in moist soil to propagate new plants.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Hawaii's native plant species evolved in isolation for millions of years, resulting in incredibly adapted plants with no natural competitors. Many native ground covers are found nowhere else on Earth.
- 🌱 Native Hawaiian ground covers often have deep root systems that can access moisture far below the surface, allowing them to survive in arid volcanic landscapes where introduced plants struggle.
- 🌱 Some native Hawaiian ground covers can live for decades or even centuries, with certain species being documented in the same locations for over 100 years.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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