Family: Asphodelaceae
ʻUkiʻuki is an endemic herbaceous understory plant. Leaves are long (12-40 inches) and dark to medium green. Flowers are delicately wonderful ranging from pale blue to white with orange filaments and yellow anthers. Their fruits are deep blue-purple to brownish-purple. ʻUkiʻuki is the only family (Asphodelaceae) representative endemic to Hawaiʻi and does have some physical variations across islands.
Habitat & Uses
ʻUkiʻuki grows in diverse environments, as it tolerates drought but also grows in higher rainfall areas. This lily is present on all of the main Hawaiian Islands from sea level to 5000 feet. They typically grow in open to shaded areas of mesic forests, dry shrublands, grasslands on lava, and within wet forests.
This plant was very useful for early Hawaiian households. Leaves can be braided into cordage, fruits can be extracted for purple-blue dye, leaves could be used in thatching, and leftover fruit used to make colorful lei. Today, the foliage and fruit are used to make lei, wreaths, and other floral arrangements. The berries can be eaten, but do not have a whole lot of flavor.
Landscaping & Cultivation
ʻUkiʻuki is a beautiful native plant. Typically they are planted in groups or as a border, spaces 12 inches apart. Along with glossy green foliage, they produce spikes of white flowers and striking blue fruit year-round. Keep an eye out for mealy bug and scale pests. Plants only need to be watered weekly until established and then frequency can be reduced. Mulching will help with moisture retention.
If using as groundcover, space about 1-2 feet apart. To keep foliage robust, apply slow release fertilizer with minor elements every six months. ʻUkiʻuki is one of the most durable native plants to own. It can grow in any light condition, water regime, and both outside or indoors.
Name Origins
The ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi ʻuki refers to several native sedges. The genus Dianella is from the Roman deity named Diana who is a goddess of chastity, hunting, and the moon. The species name sandwicensis refers to the Sandwich Islands, an old name given to Hawaiʻi by Captain James Cook.
Plant Uses:
- Container plant
- Cultural significance
- Erosion control
- Indoor plant
- Lei flower
- Ornamental
- Specimen
Plant Dangers:
- No dangers
