Grand Devil’s-Claws: A Tropical Shrub for Pacific Gardens
With a name like grand devil’s-claws, you might expect this plant to be more menacing than it actually is. Pisonia grandis is actually a rather well-behaved tropical shrub that’s found its way into gardens across the Pacific, though it’s not without its complexities when it comes to native gardening.
What is Grand Devil’s-Claws?
Grand devil’s-claws (Pisonia grandis) is a perennial shrub that typically grows as a multi-stemmed woody plant reaching 13 to 16 feet in height. Despite its intimidating common name, this plant is known for its large, glossy green leaves that give it a distinctly tropical appearance. The shrub produces small, inconspicuous flowers that, while not particularly showy, can add subtle interest to the landscape.
Where Does It Grow Naturally?
Here’s where things get interesting from a native gardening perspective. While Pisonia grandis is native to various islands throughout the Pacific Basin, it’s actually considered non-native in Hawaii, where it has naturalized and reproduces on its own. You can currently find it growing in Hawaii, Guam, Palau, and other U.S. Pacific territories.
Should You Plant Grand Devil’s-Claws?
This is where native gardening enthusiasts need to think carefully. Since Pisonia grandis isn’t native to Hawaii but has established itself there naturally, it falls into that gray area of naturalized non-native plants. While it’s not currently listed as invasive or problematic, conscientious gardeners might want to consider native alternatives that provide similar benefits to local ecosystems.
That said, if you’re gardening in areas where it is native, or if you’re specifically drawn to this plant for your landscape, it can serve as an effective screening plant or backdrop shrub in tropical settings.
Growing Conditions and Care
If you decide to grow grand devil’s-claws, you’ll find it’s relatively low-maintenance once established:
- Climate: Thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-12 (tropical and subtropical regions only)
- Soil: Prefers well-draining soil but is fairly adaptable
- Water: Drought tolerant once mature, though it appreciates regular watering during establishment
- Salt tolerance: Handles coastal conditions and salt spray well
- Maintenance: Occasional pruning to maintain shape and size
Landscape Uses
Grand devil’s-claws works well in several landscape applications:
- Privacy screening between properties
- Backdrop planting for smaller, more colorful plants
- Coastal gardens where salt tolerance is important
- Tropical-themed landscapes
Wildlife and Environmental Considerations
The small flowers of Pisonia grandis may provide some nectar for local pollinators, though they’re not considered a major pollinator plant. In Hawaii, where it’s naturalized, it has a facultative upland wetland status, meaning it usually grows in non-wetland areas but can occasionally be found in wetland environments.
Native Alternatives to Consider
For gardeners committed to native planting, especially in Hawaii, consider researching native shrubs that provide similar screening and backdrop functions. Native plants typically offer better support for local wildlife and are perfectly adapted to local growing conditions.
The Bottom Line
Grand devil’s-claws can be a useful landscape plant in tropical settings, particularly for those seeking a low-maintenance shrub with good salt tolerance. However, its non-native status in some areas means thoughtful gardeners should weigh the benefits against the potential ecological impact. When in doubt, consulting with local native plant societies or extension services can help you make the best choice for your specific location and gardening goals.
Remember, successful gardening isn’t just about what grows well—it’s about creating landscapes that work harmoniously with the local environment and support the broader ecosystem we all share.
