Family: Malvaceae
Kokiʻoʻula is an endemic shrub. Intensely colored flowers grow from the branch tips, a beautiful display set against green leaves. It profusely blooms most of the year. Depending on the subspecies, flowers can be yellow, red, or orange.
As a utility-friendly plant, It won’t reach much more than 15 feet. More often, it grows in the 5 to 8 foot range. As with all hibiscus, these can be trimmed to the desired height and shape, although it is an elegant tree in its natural state.
It performs best with full sun. A perfect xeriscape plant, It is suitable for both wet and dry situations, even drought-prone areas. In general, it is a fast-growing, low-maintenance plant. However, as with all hibiscus, Chinese rose beetle and other sucking insects are a problem.
Pre-contact, Hawaiians planted this kokiʻo ʻula near the homes to beautify their yards. It was also used medicinally, for lei, and charcoal.
Plant Uses:
- Bonsai
- Container plant
- Cultural significance
- Cut flower
- Edible
- Hedge
- Lei flower
- Medicinal
- Ornamental
- Privacy / screening
- Specimen
- Bonzai
Plant Dangers:
- No dangers
