Chenopodium oahuense

photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr

Best practices for survivability and field observations

Reviews were mixed on how long-living the species is, with one noting it as “a short lived perennial, typically living for 5 – 10 years,” while others noting its viability from 2 – 5 years (and therefor possibly not worth the effort). Many noted it grows quickly, seeds plentifully, germinates readily on its own (example: Kealia Pond, Maui), but that out-planted ones need to be watered to become established. One noted a preference for the prostrate variety (‘āweoweo papa) rather than the upright one which “uprooted in strong winds and acted like a tumbleweed.” One similarly mentioned “it becomes top heavy with an underdeveloped root structure.” Another respondent said that it grows seasonally in sandy soil but that better soil might prolong its life. Its cultural use is noted as a seasoning for food. A couple of respondents described it as “fire resistant.”

Stressors and pests

Several noted that it is susceptible to pests like mites (in cultivation). One respondent said that it is “not a good weed suppressor but very drought tolerant.” Susceptible to deer and goat browsing.

Availability and propagation

Many noted it is readily available via seeds (particularly seed scattering). Less often, respondents mentioned propagating via cuttings.

Survey Results

For information about the survey, refer to our article: on Coastal Plants for Creating Green Breaks