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ho'awa

Scientific Name: Pittosporum confertiflorum

Family: Pittosporaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree, Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Pittosporum hosmeri: An Overview

Pittosporum hosmeri is a small tree native to Hawaii. It is also known by the common names pittosporum, ha`awa, and ho`awa.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions that the fruits of Pittosporum hosmeri are cube-shaped capsules, which may be of interest.

Considerations for Children

  • The text mentions that the fruits of Pittosporum hosmeri are cube-shaped capsules, which may be of interest.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Pittosporum hosmeri
  • Common Names: pittosporum, ha`awa, ho`awa
  • Synonym: Pittosporum confertiflorum A. Gray
  • Kingdom: Plantae

Distribution and Habitat

  • Endemic to Hawaii.
  • Specifically found on the island of Moloka?i (Mo/ M 1999) and Hawaii island.
  • Uncommon in mesic and wet forests of leeward Hawaii island.

Morphological Characteristics

  • A small tree ranging in height from 10 to 25 feet. Shrub forms can reach greater than 10 feet tall, while tree forms can reach from 15 to 30 feet tall.
  • The fruits are cube-shaped capsules. Differs from Pittosporum hawaiiense in having smooth capsules.
  • Has male and female flowers on separate plants, so plants of both sexes are required for seed to form.

Ecological Role

  • The pods were a favorite food of the extirpated ?alala (Hawaiian crow).
  • The seeds are now often eaten by rats.
  • Fruits are a food source for birds, aiding in seed dispersal.

Quirky Facts

  • The Ho`awa pods were a favorite food of the now extirpated 'Alala.

Further Information

  • Searchable databases of propagation techniques for native Hawaiian plants are available.
  • Dave's Garden offers tips and ideas for gardens, along with seeds and plants.
  • More information can be found at the D.T. Fleming Arboretum at Puu Mahoe.
  • Encyclopaedia Britannica has an updated online encyclopedia with information.