How to Grow Pukiawe
iNaturalist
Pukiawe
Styphelia tameiameiae
shrubPukiawe is a native Hawaiian evergreen shrub with small, leathery leaves and delicate pink or white flowers followed by colorful berries. This drought-tolerant plant is endemic to Hawaii and thrives in arid volcanic landscapes. It plays an important ecological role in native Hawaiian ecosystems and is valued for its ornamental qualities and cultural significance.
When should you plant Pukiawe in your zone?
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Example Pukiawe timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Pukiawe
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 Pukiawe
Around Oct 14≈ 180 days after planting
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Pukiawe dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 10b-12, warm tropical and subtropical climates only
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Get my Pukiawe timeline →Growth Stages
Seedling
3-6 weeksTiny seedlings with cotyledons and emerging first true leaves; very delicate
Keep soil barely moist, provide bright indirect light, protect from strong winds, use well-draining seed compost
Juvenile
6-12 monthsSmall shrub developing branching structure with narrow, leathery foliage; slow growth period
Gradually acclimate to full sun, water sparingly, apply light fertilizer monthly during growing season, light pruning to encourage branching
Vegetative
Ongoing maintenance phaseEstablished shrub 1-3 feet tall with dense foliage and branching framework
Minimal water, full sun exposure, prune to maintain shape, very drought-tolerant, little fertilizer needed
Flowering
3-6 months, typically spring to summerSmall delicate pink, white, or bicolored flowers appear along branches; flowers are tubular and attractive
Do not over-water, maintain full sun, avoid excessive fertilization, no pruning during flowering to maximize blooms
Fruiting & Maturity
6+ monthsSmall round berries develop, ripening from green to red, pink, or white depending on variety; ornamental fruit display
Maintain mature plant with minimal intervention, prune only to remove dead wood, berries attract native birds
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Spray with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap; prune heavily infested branches; isolate affected plants
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Remove by hand with alcohol-dipped cotton swab; spray with neem oil; improve air circulation
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Increase humidity slightly, spray with water to dislodge, apply insecticidal soap if severe
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Allow soil to dry completely between waterings, improve drainage, repot in well-draining soil if needed
Uses
Traditional Hawaiian food
CulinaryThe berries of pukiawe are edible and were traditionally consumed by Native Hawaiians as a wild food source. The small round fruits can be eaten fresh and have a mildly sweet flavor. [source]
Traditional Hawaiian medicine
MedicinalPukiawe has been used in traditional Hawaiian healing practices (lā'au lapa'au) for various ailments. Different plant parts were utilized in herbal remedies prepared by kāhuna lā'au lapa'au (healing experts). [source]
Native bird habitat and food
WildlifePukiawe berries are an important food source for native Hawaiian birds including 'apapane and 'amakihi. The shrub provides shelter and nesting habitat for endemic bird species in high-elevation Hawaiian forests. [source]
Drought-tolerant landscaping
OrnamentalWith its attractive delicate flowers, colorful berries, and compact growth habit, pukiawe is excellent for xeriscaping and low-maintenance Hawaiian native gardens. It adds visual interest year-round with minimal water needs. [source]
Endangered ecosystem restoration
EcologicalPukiawe is a key species in Hawaiian alpine and subalpine ecosystems on volcanic mountains. Restoration programs use this native plant to recover degraded high-elevation habitats and prevent further extinction of endemic species. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Berries can be harvested when fully ripe (color will be vibrant). Clip branches with ripe berries for decorative use. In native Hawaiian tradition, berries were eaten fresh by early inhabitants. Harvest sustainably if collecting from wild plants.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Pukiawe is endemic to Hawaii, found naturally only on the Hawaiian Islands, primarily in high-elevation volcanic areas above 2,000 feet
- 🌱 The name 'pukiawe' derives from Hawaiian language and reflects the plant's cultural significance to Native Hawaiian people for thousands of years
- 🌱 Pukiawe berries were historically important for feeding native Hawaiian forest birds, and the plant remains critical for conserving endangered bird species in Hawaiian national parks
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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