Growing ‘Akala: Hawaii’s Rare Native Raspberry
If you’re passionate about Hawaiian native plants, you’ve probably heard whispers about ‘akala – a charming little shrub that’s as rare as it is beautiful. This endemic Hawaiian raspberry (Rubus macraei) might just be the perfect addition to your native garden, but there are some important things you need to know before you start planning.
What Makes ‘Akala Special?
‘Akala is a perennial shrub that stays refreshingly compact, typically growing under 1.5 feet tall and never exceeding 3 feet at maturity. Think of it as nature’s way of creating the perfect low-maintenance ground cover with a bonus – it produces small, edible berries that look like tiny raspberries!
This delightful plant is completely native to Hawaii, where it has been growing long before any of us arrived on the scene. You’ll find it naturally occurring across the Hawaiian islands, making it a true local celebrity in the plant world.
The Beauty of ‘Akala
‘Akala brings a subtle elegance to any garden with its small white flowers that eventually develop into colorful red to purple berries. The low-growing habit makes it perfect for creating natural-looking ground cover that doesn’t require constant trimming or fussing.
Important Conservation Note
Here’s where we need to have a serious conversation: ‘akala has a Global Conservation Status of S2, meaning it’s imperiled. With only 6 to 20 known occurrences and somewhere between 1,000 to 3,000 individual plants remaining in the wild, this little guy needs our help, not our exploitation.
If you want to grow ‘akala, please only use responsibly sourced material from reputable native plant nurseries or propagation programs. Never collect from wild populations – every plant in nature is precious for the species’ survival.
Where ‘Akala Thrives in Your Garden
‘Akala works beautifully in several garden settings:
- Native Hawaiian plant gardens
- Restoration projects
- Naturalistic landscapes
- Erosion control on gentle slopes
- Wildlife-friendly gardens
Growing Conditions
This adaptable little shrub prefers partial shade to full sun and appreciates well-draining soils with consistent moisture. According to its wetland status, ‘akala is facultative upland, meaning it usually grows in non-wetland areas but can tolerate some moisture – basically, it’s pretty flexible about its living conditions!
Since it’s native to Hawaii’s tropical climate, ‘akala is suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-11, making it perfect for tropical and subtropical gardens.
Planting and Care Tips
- Plant in partial shade to full sun locations
- Ensure good drainage while maintaining consistent moisture
- Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Allow space for the plant to spread naturally via runners
- Minimal pruning required due to low growth habit
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
While ‘akala may be small, it punches above its weight when it comes to supporting local wildlife. The flowers attract native bees and other pollinators, while the berries provide food for birds and other creatures. By growing ‘akala, you’re creating a little oasis for Hawaiian wildlife right in your backyard.
The Bottom Line
‘Akala is a wonderful choice for gardeners who want to support Hawaiian native plants and create habitat for local wildlife. Its compact size, attractive berries, and low-maintenance nature make it a joy to grow. However, its rarity means we all have a responsibility to source it ethically and help protect this special plant for future generations.
If you can find responsibly sourced ‘akala, you’ll be rewarded with a unique, beautiful, and ecologically valuable addition to your garden. Plus, you’ll have bragging rights for growing one of Hawaii’s most special native plants!
