How to Grow Native Hawaiian Windbreak Plants
Wikimedia Commons
Native Hawaiian Windbreak Plants
Various species (Metrosideros polymorpha, Myoporum sandwicense, Dodonaea viscosa, Erythrina sandwicensis, and others)
shrubNative Hawaiian plants used for windbreaks include a diverse group of hardy, salt-tolerant species that naturally thrive in Hawaii's challenging coastal and leeward environments. These plants evolved to withstand trade winds and provide effective shelter while supporting the native ecosystem. Common windbreak species include 'ōhi'a lehua, false sandalwood, 'a'ali'i, wiliwili, and native grasses that together create multi-layered wind protection.
Looking for a specific variety?
When should you plant Native Hawaiian Windbreak Plants in your zone?
Get a personalized planting timeline — when to start seeds, transplant, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Free to start.
Example Native Hawaiian Windbreak Plants timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
-
Plant Native Hawaiian Windbreak Plants
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
-
Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
-
Harvest Native Hawaiian Windbreak Plants
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Native Hawaiian Windbreak Plants dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Primarily Hawaii zones 11-12; can be grown in warm microclimates on mainland zones 10-11 with protection
Sign up free to see if Native Hawaiian Windbreak Plants grows in your zone — and get a personalized planting timeline.
Get my Native Hawaiian Windbreak Plants timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment (0-3 months)
3 monthsYoung transplants or seedlings develop root systems and early leaf growth; plants appear small and vulnerable
Water 2-3 times weekly, provide partial shade for first 4-6 weeks, protect from strong winds with temporary barriers, mulch around base
Vegetative Growth (3-12 months)
9 monthsRapid stem and leaf development; plants establish main structure; height and branch formation increase noticeably
Reduce watering frequency as roots deepen, monitor for pests, prune to encourage branching and density if desired, apply slow-release fertilizer sparingly
Structure Formation (1-3 years)
2 yearsPlants reach 50-70% of mature height; dense branching develops; effective windbreak protection begins
Minimal supplemental watering except during drought, allow natural form for best wind resistance, thin weak branches, monitor salt spray impact if coastal
Maturation (3-7 years)
4 yearsPlants reach full height and maximum density; flowering begins on many species; complete windbreak establishment with ecosystem benefits
Maintenance pruning only to remove dead wood or maintain shape, no regular watering needed, allow flowering for native pollinators and birds, mulch annually
Maintenance (7+ years)
IndefiniteMature windbreak operating at full capacity; established ecosystem support; plants self-sustaining with minimal intervention
Remove dead or diseased branches, prevent overcrowding by selective thinning if needed, monitor for native pests, allow natural regeneration
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
-
Monitor native snail populations; avoid pesticides that harm non-target species
-
Spray with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil; encourage natural predators; remove heavily infested branches
-
Improve air circulation with pruning; allow full sun exposure; apply sulfur spray if severe
-
and
Hand-pick on young plants; allow native predators; spray neem oil for severe infestations
-
Remove infected leaves; improve drainage and air circulation; avoid wetting foliage
Uses
Wind and Weather Protection
HouseholdNative Hawaiian windbreak plants reduce wind speed by 50-75%, provide salt-spray filtering for coastal properties, and protect structures, crops, and landscapes from trade wind damage. Multi-species windbreaks create layers of protection that are more effective than single-species barriers. [source]
Native Ecosystem Support
WildlifeThese plants provide critical habitat for native Hawaiian birds (like 'apapane, 'i'iwi, and nēnē), insects, and invertebrates. Flowering species offer nectar, seeds provide food, and dense branches offer nesting and shelter sites, supporting native pollinator populations. [source]
Traditional Hawaiian Food and Lei
CulinaryWiliwili flowers are used in traditional lei; 'ōhi'a lehua berries and flowers have cultural significance. Some species have traditional uses in Hawaiian cuisine and medicine, though windbreak plants are primarily valued for structure. [source]
Traditional Hawaiian Medicine
Medicinal'Ōhi'a lehua, naupaka, and other windbreak species have documented uses in Hawaiian traditional medicine (lāu'au) for various ailments, though modern clinical evidence is limited. [source]
Erosion Control and Soil Stabilization
HouseholdDeep root systems of native windbreak plants stabilize slopes and prevent wind-driven erosion in coastal and leeward areas. Their dense canopy reduces water runoff and protects soil from being blown away in high-wind environments. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Windbreak plants are grown for structure and function rather than harvest. Collect seeds from mature plants (late summer to fall) for propagation of native species. Harvest flowers and leaves from species like wiliwili (used in lei) minimally to avoid stress to young windbreak plants. Allow berries and seeds to remain for native birds and wildlife. Prune dead or damaged branches year-round; major pruning best done in late winter/early spring before active growth.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Native Hawaiian windbreak plants evolved over millions of years without mammalian herbivores, resulting in unique growth forms and reduced chemical defenses that make them vulnerable to introduced species like feral goats and pigs.
- 🌱 'Ōhi'a lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha) is Hawaii's most common native tree and can survive in lava fields, creating the foundation for forest recovery; it's called the 'tree of the volcano' and is sacred in Hawaiian culture.
- 🌱 The wiliwili tree produces bright orange-red flowers that bloom in spring and are highly valued for traditional lei; its lightweight wood was traditionally used for outrigger canoes and surfboards.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
Join 30,000 gardeners planning their gardens with LizPlants.
Get your personalized Native Hawaiian Windbreak Plants planting timeline
Tell us your zip code and we'll calculate exactly when to start Native Hawaiian Windbreak Plants seeds, transplant seedlings, and harvest — based on your USDA zone and local frost dates. Includes calendar reminders and printable task lists. Free to start.
Get my Native Hawaiian Windbreak Plants timeline →