AʻALIʻI

What’s up, I’m A’ali’i! I’m indigenous to Hawaii, found on all the main islands, and am one of the few native Hawaiian plants that can endure fires. I’m among the early colonizers of lava flows, am drought tolerant, and can withstand very strong winds. I’m always looking for a new adventure and I’m ready for whatever life throws my way!

But hey, just cause I’m tough doesn’t mean I can’t be pretty too ;). My characteristics vary from shrub to small tree, and I grow to anywhere between 1 and 38 ft tall. I have dense, green foliage adorned with tons of little star shaped flowers that can range in color from pale yellow-green to light pink to dark burgundy red. My fruit also varies in color, and I’m part of the soapberry family

Where I live:

I’m naturally occurring at a wide range of elevations from sea level to 8,000 ft. I live everywhere from dry coastal lowlands to wetter mesic forests, and I’m very abundant in dry forests.

My favorite places to hang out are sunny open areas, so you can usually find me on ridges.

Occupation:

• I’m often a part of restoration work since my deep roots give slopes and stream banks more structural integrity

• I’m also used in landscaping as a windbreak 

• Traditionally, my black heartwood is used by Hawaiians to craft canoes, houses, weapons, and agricultural tools

• Plus, the seed capsules in my flowers are used to make leis and red dye

• In Hawaiian culture, I’m even medicinal

I have a lot going, but I don't mind it. I like to keep busy and I’ll always be there to help out!