Psydrax odorata

photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr

Best practices for survivability and field observations

Many respondents said that the species is long lived and an overall hardy plant while slow growing. A couple noted that it “can handle pruning very well” and “can even be shaped into a hedge under the right circumstances.” One mentioned that once established, it appears to significantly reduce weed growth. A couple of respondents said that it grows well in places like South Kona at 2000′ elevation, Pahole and Ka‘ena (O‘ahu). It is used as a dye and its wood is used for cultural purposes.

Stressors and pests

Pests include borer insects like coffee twig borer, wilt disease (at all stages). One noted that if grown where it’s too damp it becomes an “incredible pest magnet.” It is susceptible to goats and deer which will eat seedlings and younger plants. One respondent said that the species “can handle some salt spray.” Another said it “can handle fire” and that “it will come back after being burned.”

Availability and propagation

Many noted that it is readily available from seeds. Although several noted the fruits can be prolific, the timing of retrieving the seeds and the impact by borers can be tricky. One noted that cuttings are possible, but difficult.

Survey Results

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