Kakonakona: A Hidden Gem of Hawaiian Native Grasses
If you’re passionate about native Hawaiian plants and looking to add authentic island character to your garden, let me introduce you to kakonakona (Panicum xerophilum). This lesser-known native grass might not be the flashiest plant in the nursery, but it carries the true spirit of Hawaii’s natural landscapes in its delicate, drought-adapted form.
What Makes Kakonakona Special?
Kakonakona is a charming native Hawaiian grass that belongs to the Panicum genus. As both an annual and perennial species (it can behave as either depending on conditions), this adaptable grass has been quietly thriving in Hawaii’s diverse environments for generations. You might also see it listed under its botanical synonym, Panicum heupueo, in older references.
What sets kakonakona apart is its connection to place—this grass is found exclusively in Hawaii, making it a true endemic treasure. For gardeners who want to create authentic Hawaiian landscapes, this species offers a genuine piece of the islands’ botanical heritage.
Where Does Kakonakona Call Home?
This grass is native to and grows exclusively in Hawaii, where it has adapted to the islands’ unique climate and growing conditions. Its presence is limited to the Hawaiian chain, making it a special representative of the state’s endemic flora.
A Word of Caution: Rarity Matters
Here’s something important every responsible gardener should know: kakonakona has a Global Conservation Status of S3, meaning it’s considered vulnerable. With typically only 21 to 100 occurrences and between 3,000 to 10,000 individuals remaining, this grass is quite rare in the wild.
If you decide to grow kakonakona, please ensure you source it responsibly from reputable native plant nurseries that propagate from cultivated stock rather than wild-collected plants. By choosing ethically sourced plants, you can help preserve wild populations while still enjoying this beautiful native grass in your garden.
Growing Kakonakona Successfully
The good news is that kakonakona can be a rewarding addition to the right garden setting, especially if you’re working in USDA hardiness zones 10-12 (tropical and subtropical regions). Here’s what you need to know:
Ideal Growing Conditions
- Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade
- Soil: Well-draining soils; this grass earned its species name xerophilum (dry-loving) for good reason
- Water: Drought tolerant once established, requiring minimal irrigation
- Climate: Thrives in tropical and subtropical conditions
Planting and Care Tips
- Plant in well-draining soil to prevent root rot
- Water regularly during establishment, then reduce frequency as the plant matures
- Avoid overwatering—this grass prefers on the dry side
- Minimal fertilization needed; native plants typically thrive in their natural soil conditions
Garden Design Ideas
Kakonakona works beautifully in several landscape applications:
- Native Hawaiian gardens: Perfect for creating authentic island landscapes
- Xerophytic (dry) gardens: Ideal for water-wise landscaping
- Erosion control: Helps stabilize soil on slopes and disturbed areas
- Restoration projects: Essential for restoring native Hawaiian ecosystems
- Naturalized areas: Creates soft, textural interest in informal garden spaces
Should You Plant Kakonakona?
If you’re gardening in Hawaii or similar tropical climates and want to support native biodiversity, kakonakona can be a wonderful choice—provided you source it responsibly. This grass offers several benefits:
- Supports native Hawaiian ecosystems
- Requires minimal water once established
- Provides authentic island character
- Helps preserve genetic diversity of rare native species (when grown from ethical sources)
However, this plant isn’t suitable for gardeners outside tropical zones, and its rarity means it should only be grown when obtained from reputable sources that don’t impact wild populations.
The Bottom Line
Kakonakona represents the quiet beauty of Hawaii’s native grasslands. While it may not be the showiest plant in your garden, it offers something more valuable: a connection to place and a chance to participate in preserving Hawaii’s unique botanical heritage. If you can source it responsibly and provide the right growing conditions, this drought-loving native grass can be a meaningful addition to your Hawaiian landscape.
Remember, growing native plants like kakonakona isn’t just about gardening—it’s about stewardship. By choosing to grow rare native species responsibly, you’re helping ensure that future generations can experience the authentic beauty of Hawaii’s natural landscapes.
