Family: Fabaceae
ʻĀwikiwiki is a lovely flowering vine that produces large, deep purple flowers which are used in lei-making. Because it is a nitrogen fixer, it does not need much fertilizer. The plant grows well on a chain-link fence, or it can be used as a crawling groundcover. However, the spines and burrs on ʻāwikiwiki can be toxic and contribute to fire hazards. In addition, some people are allergic to the pollen or sap, and other plants may have difficulty growing in areas with its leaf litter.
Due to its aggressive root system, don’t plant ʻāwikiwiki near structures, homes, or waterlines.
Plant Uses:
- Lei flower
- Nitrogen fixer
- Ornamental
Plant Dangers:
- Allelopathic
- Allergenic
- Fire hazard
- Thorns or spines
- Toxic to animals and humans