Cluster of pink, winged seed pods and narrow green leaves on a shrub, shown in close-up with a blurred background.
Common Name: ʻAʻaliʻi
Scientific Name: Dodonaea viscosa
Description:

ʻAʻaliʻi (Dodonaea viscosa) is a native shrub that can be planted in a variety of environments. It can be planted directly into the ground to be used as hedges and erosion control or kept in a container as an accent to your landscape. ʻaʻaliʻi does well with full-partial sun and well-draining soils. It can tolerate drought and windy areas and can thrive in areas where most plants cannot grow.

ʻAʻ aliʻi wood has been used for similar purposes. It’s hard wood has been used to build canoes and posts to support hale (houses), as well as to make weapons and agricultural tools. It’s ability to survive in harsh environments has made it a common icon to represent resiliency.

Growing Conditions:

Sun requirements: Full or partial sun

Watering needs: drought tolerant when established. Allow soil surface to dry out between watering. Leaves will slightly curl when drought stressed and wilt when dangerously so.

Soil preferences: Well-drained

Elevation: 0-8000 ft

Cultural & Practical Uses:

Cultural significance: Hardwood has been used to build canoes and supports for houses, and to make certain weapons and agricultural tools. Its wood has also been used to make bait sticks for fishing. Seeds can be boiled to make red dye. Crushed leaves have been used to treat skin irritations and rashes.

Practical applications: Prunes well and can tolerate dry and windy conditions.

Growth Rate & Size:

Growth rate: Moderate growth depending on environmental conditions potentially long lived.

Mature size: 2 - 30 feet tall but very tolerant of pruning to fit the available space.

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