Family: Ericaceae

Pūkiawe is a native plant that grows into a shrub or small tree. It has small needle-like leaves with silvery-white undersides. Its round berries come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, red, deep purple, or bicolor. Pūkiawe flowers are small and range from white to pale pink.

Habitat & Uses 

Pūkiawe grows in a wide range of habitats, from about 50 ft to 10,000 ft in elevation. It is found in mesic forests, open low-elevation areas, wet montane forests, fog-swept alpine shrublands, bogs, and occasionally windward coastal sites. 

Pūkiawe has several uses. Pūkiawe leaves can be used to treat congestion. The berries and leaves are used in lei making. The wood was used for kapa anvils and had a role in multiple Hawaiian ceremonies.

Plant Uses:

• Container plant
• Cultural significance
• Hedge
• Medicinal
• Ornamental

Plant Dangers:

• No dangers