Hawaii Long ago, the buoyant seeds of Scaevola taccada (naupaka kahakai) buoyant seeds floated across the sea: cruising on currents, riding on waves, and finally landing upon distant shores to grow. Modern day studies have shown that naupaka kahakai seeds are most viable after spending an average … [Read more...] about Naupaka kahakai, The right plant for the right place
Invasive Holly in Hakalau, Hawaii
Many consider holly to be a Christmastime favorite. However, the tree associated with the holiday season’s cheer is nothing but bad tidings for native ecosystems. In Hawai'i, holly is invasive. The Hakalau Forest National Wildlife Refuge, one of the most pristine and healthy native ecosystems in the … [Read more...] about Invasive Holly in Hakalau, Hawaii
10 Christmas tree substitutes for Hawai’i
Holiday traditions vary by family, culture, and geographic location. One thing remains constant: traditions are learned and passed on through generations. Some traditions stay the same, some are forgotten, and some are tweaked to suit changing needs or values. As an island state, we approach many … [Read more...] about 10 Christmas tree substitutes for Hawai’i
A new weed in potted plants
A menace for Hawai'i: A newly established weed promises to add even more burden to gardeners and plant lovers. Hairy crabweed (Fatoua villosa) was recently found invading a Hilo garden. Just a few weeks after planting a locally purchased Samoan gardenia, an unsuspecting gardener found hairy … [Read more...] about A new weed in potted plants
Is Medinilla invasive in Hawaii?
Betrayed by beauty - Invasive Medinilla: Medinilla magnifica and Medinilla cumminigii are invasive species in Hawaii. Yet, some garden stores continue to promote and sell them as prized horticultural specimens. Profusely blooming and fruiting, the plant blooms with showy pink or purple flowers that … [Read more...] about Is Medinilla invasive in Hawaii?
Nitrogen-fixing plants for Hawaii
Nitrogen (N) is essential for plant growth, as everyone knows. Nitrogen-fixing plants, with help from bacteria in their root nodules, capture convert, store, and release it. Native Ecosystem It seems counter-intuitive that native plants don’t always do well in nitrogen-rich areas. Still, it was … [Read more...] about Nitrogen-fixing plants for Hawaii
