SafePlants

Scaevola mollis (Purple Naupaka)

Scaevola mollis, commonly known as Purple Naupaka, is a perennial shrub with significant cultural and ecological presence, particularly in Hawaii. The name "Naupaka" refers to several species in the genus Scaevola found in the Hawaiian Islands.

Considerations for Pets

• The plant produces berries, specifically purple-black berries in the case of Mountain Naupaka (Scaevola gaudichaudiana).

Considerations for Children

• The plant produces berries, specifically purple-black berries in the case of Mountain Naupaka (Scaevola gaudichaudiana), which may attract attention.
• The fruit or root bark of beach naupaka has traditional uses for healing cuts, skin diseases and wounds.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Scaevola mollis
• Common Names: Purple Naupaka, Naupaka Kahakai (for Scaevola sericea and Scaevola taccada), Mountain Naupaka (for Scaevola gaudichaudiana)
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Species
• Synonyms:
  • Lobelia mollis
  • Scaevola mollis f. albiflora
  • Scaevola mollis f. trilobata
  • Scaevola mollis var. albiflora
  • Scaevola procera f. macrocalyx
  • Scaevola procera var. pseudomollis

Distribution and Habitat

• Primarily found in Hawaii, with different types of Naupaka occupying different ecological niches (e.g., beach vs. mountain).
• Beach Naupaka (Scaevola sericea and Scaevola taccada) thrives near the beach (naupaka kahakai), while Mountain Naupaka (Scaevola gaudichaudiana) is found in mountainous regions.

Ecological Role

• Scaevola taccada (also called Naupaka) is noted as having an invasive habit in some locations, such as Inland, Kure Atoll.

Morphological Characteristics

• Flowers are typically white or cream-colored, often with purple streaks.
• Mountain Naupaka (Scaevola mollis) has leaves with undersides coated by dense hairs and purple flowers.
• The plant produces fleshy berries.
• Naupaka kahakai (Scaevola taccada) has thick pulpy leaves with a light green color.

Traditional Uses

• The fruit or root bark of beach naupaka (Scaevola sericea or Scaevola taccada) has been traditionally used to heal cuts, skin diseases, and wounds.
• Bark of roots of Naupaka kauhiwi is used on cuts and skin diseases.
• Dark purple berries of Naupaka kuahiwi (mountain naupaka) are used in dye making.

Quirky Facts

• The flowers are often described as "half-flowers," a characteristic linked to a Hawaiian legend about separated lovers.