Forest Colicwood: A Rare Native Hawaiian Shrub Worth Preserving
If you’re passionate about native Hawaiian plants and want to make a real difference in conservation, forest colicwood might just be the perfect addition to your garden. This unassuming shrub may not win any beauty contests, but it’s got something far more valuable: it’s a genuine piece of Hawaii’s natural heritage that desperately needs our help.
What is Forest Colicwood?
Forest colicwood (Myrsine alyxifolia) is a native Hawaiian shrub that’s been quietly growing in the islands’ forests long before any of us arrived. As a perennial woody plant, it typically reaches heights of 4-5 meters (13-16 feet) under ideal conditions, though it often stays much smaller in cultivation. Like most shrubs, it develops multiple stems from the ground, creating a nice bushy appearance that works well in naturalistic plantings.
Where Does It Grow?
This little gem is found exclusively in Hawaii, making it a true endemic species. You won’t find forest colicwood growing wild anywhere else on Earth – it’s as Hawaiian as it gets! In nature, it thrives in the mesic to wet forests of the Hawaiian islands, where it plays an important role in the native ecosystem.
A Plant That Needs Our Help
Here’s where things get serious: forest colicwood has a Global Conservation Status of S3, which means it’s considered vulnerable. With only an estimated 3,000 to 10,000 individuals remaining and just 21 to 100 known populations, this species is walking a tightrope toward extinction. That’s where responsible gardeners like you come in!
Important: If you decide to grow forest colicwood, please only source your plants from reputable native plant nurseries that propagate from ethically collected seeds or cuttings. Never dig plants from the wild – every wild specimen is precious for the species’ survival.
Why Plant Forest Colicwood?
You might be wondering why you should choose this particular shrub when there are flashier options available. Here’s the thing: sometimes the most meaningful plants aren’t the showiest ones. Forest colicwood offers several compelling reasons to earn a spot in your garden:
- Support native Hawaiian biodiversity and conservation efforts
- Create habitat for native Hawaiian insects and birds
- Add authentic native character to shade gardens
- Enjoy low-maintenance growing once established
- Participate in preserving Hawaii’s unique botanical heritage
What Does It Look Like?
Forest colicwood won’t knock your socks off with flashy blooms, but it has a quiet, understated beauty. The plant features small, leathery leaves that create nice texture in the garden. Its flowers are small and inconspicuous – this isn’t a plant you grow for spectacular floral displays. Instead, think of it as a reliable, attractive foliage plant that provides structure and native authenticity to your landscape.
Perfect Garden Situations
Forest colicwood shines in specific garden situations. It’s absolutely perfect for:
- Native Hawaiian plant gardens and landscapes
- Shaded areas where other shrubs struggle
- Forest understory plantings and naturalistic designs
- Conservation-focused landscapes
- Areas where you want low-maintenance native plants
Growing Conditions and Care
The good news is that forest colicwood isn’t particularly fussy once you understand its needs. This shrub thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-11, so it’s really only suited for tropical and subtropical climates like Hawaii and southern Florida.
Here’s what your forest colicwood needs to be happy:
- Light: Partial to full shade – avoid hot, direct sunlight
- Soil: Moist, well-draining soil that doesn’t dry out completely
- Water: Consistent moisture without waterlogging
- Humidity: Prefers humid conditions similar to its native forest habitat
- Protection: Shield from strong winds that can damage the foliage
Planting and Care Tips
Getting your forest colicwood off to a good start isn’t complicated, but attention to detail matters:
- Plant in a location that mimics its native forest understory habitat
- Ensure consistent moisture, especially during the establishment period
- Mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
- Minimal pruning is needed – just remove dead or damaged branches
- Be patient – like many native plants, it may take time to establish
Supporting Native Ecosystems
While we don’t have complete data on all the wildlife benefits of forest colicwood, native Hawaiian plants like this one typically support native insects, which in turn support native birds and other wildlife. By growing this plant, you’re contributing to a web of native relationships that have evolved over thousands of years.
The Bottom Line
Forest colicwood may not be the most glamorous plant in your garden center, but it offers something increasingly rare: the chance to actively participate in conservation while creating beautiful, meaningful landscapes. If you have the right growing conditions and can source plants responsibly, this vulnerable native deserves consideration for your garden.
Remember, every garden that includes native plants like forest colicwood becomes a small sanctuary for Hawaii’s unique natural heritage. In a world where so many native species are disappearing, that’s a pretty powerful thing to grow in your backyard.
