Family: Rosaceae

ʻŪlei is a sprawling shrub native to Hawaiʻi. A member of the rose family, the flowers resemble strawberries or open roses. The beautiful white flowers stand out among the dark green foliage. Their globe-shaped fruit is off-white and has a spongy texture. Inside are 3-4 wedge-shaped seeds.

It often grows prostrate, although it sometimes grows upright. You can trim and shape into topiary. ʻŪlei grows well in a wide range of conditions, and it’s drought tolerant once established. Few pests will attack ʻūlei, making it a low-maintenance plant to grow!

Traditional uses include utilizing the woody stems to make handles for scoop nets, spears, and musical instruments. The fruits and flowers look like botanical jewels when stung into lei.

Propagation is by seeds or vegetatively by cuttings.

Plant Uses:

• Container plant
• Cultural significance
• Erosion control
• Hedge
• Lei flower
• Ornamental

Plant Dangers:

• No dangers