SafePlants

Coprosma Species: Pilo, Hupilo, and More

The name "hupilo" and "pilo" commonly refers to several Coprosma species, particularly those native to Hawaii. This diverse group of plants belongs to the Rubiaceae family and exhibits a range of growth habits and ecological roles.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

• Scientific Name: Various Coprosma species, including Coprosma ernodeoides, Coprosma menziesii, Coprosma longifolia, Coprosma ochracea, Coprosma cymosa, Coprosma elliptica, Coprosma foliosa, and Coprosma montana.
• Common Names: Pilo, Hupilo, `aiakanene, kukaenene, leponene, nene, punene, koi (for C. kauensis), olena (for C. waimeae).
• Family: Rubiaceae (the coffee family)
• Group: Dicot

Distribution and Habitat

• Many Coprosma species referred to as "pilo" or "hupilo" are native to Hawaii (HI N).
• Specific species like Coprosma montana are found on the southwest-facing dry upper slopes of Haleakala.
• Coprosma ernodeoides is endemic to WM (Mt `Eke).

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Coprosma species can exhibit different growth habits, including shrub and vine forms.
• Coprosma montana is described as a shrub related to the coffee plant.
• The flowers are unisexual with long, brush-like stigmas.

Considerations for Pets

• Some references mention that young Coprosma trees may require staking due to windy conditions, suggesting that broken or fallen branches might be a potential hazard in gardens frequented by pets.

Ecological Role

• Hupilo or Pilo (likely referring to a Coprosma species) is noted as a good small understory tree for &#699&#333hi&#699a and koa trees.

Further Information

• Discover Life offers information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Coprosma menziesii.
• Flickr Hive Mind contains photos tagged with "hupilo," "pilo," and other relevant terms.
• USGS (United States Geological Survey) provides photos of Pilo plants, flowers, and fruits.