Makole: A Hidden Gem for Hawaiian Native Plant Gardens
If you’re looking to add authentic Hawaiian character to your garden while supporting local ecosystems, makole (Coprosma granadensis) might just be the unsung hero you’ve been searching for. This charming native ground cover brings both ecological value and subtle beauty to island landscapes, though it’s probably not going to win any flashy flower contests.
What Makes Makole Special?
Makole is a perennial forb that’s endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, meaning you won’t find this little beauty growing wild anywhere else on Earth. As a low-growing, mat-forming plant, it creates a living carpet that’s perfect for covering ground in natural-style gardens. Don’t expect showy blooms – makole produces small, inconspicuous white to greenish flowers that are more about function than flash.
The real visual interest comes from its small orange to red berries, which add delightful pops of color against the green foliage. Think of it as nature’s way of adding subtle jewelry to your landscape.
Where Does Makole Call Home?
This native Hawaiian treasure grows naturally across multiple islands in the Hawaiian chain. You’ll find it thriving in various habitats throughout Hawaii, from coastal areas to inland locations.
Why Plant Makole in Your Garden?
Here’s where makole really shines – it’s a fantastic choice for gardeners who want to:
- Support native Hawaiian ecosystems and biodiversity
- Create authentic island landscapes using indigenous plants
- Establish effective ground cover that prevents erosion
- Add subtle, natural beauty without high maintenance requirements
- Contribute to conservation efforts for endemic Hawaiian species
Because of its wetland status as a Facultative Wetland plant, makole is particularly valuable for areas that experience varying moisture levels. It usually thrives in wetlands but can adapt to drier conditions when needed.
Perfect Garden Situations for Makole
Makole works beautifully in several landscape scenarios:
- Native Hawaiian gardens: Essential for authentic island plantings
- Coastal landscapes: Handles salt spray and challenging conditions
- Naturalistic designs: Perfect for creating that wild Hawaii look
- Erosion control areas: Its mat-forming habit stabilizes soil
- Rain gardens: Tolerates both wet and moderately dry conditions
Growing Makole Successfully
The good news is that makole isn’t particularly fussy once you understand its preferences. Here’s what this native Hawaiian needs to thrive:
Climate Requirements: Makole is suited for USDA hardiness zones 10-12, making it perfect for tropical and subtropical climates like Hawaii’s.
Soil and Moisture: This adaptable plant prefers consistently moist soil but can handle periods of moderate dryness. Given its facultative wetland status, it’s happiest with regular water but won’t sulk if conditions occasionally dry out.
Light Conditions: Makole is quite flexible, growing well in partial shade to full sun. This adaptability makes it easy to incorporate into various garden situations.
Planting and Care Tips
Getting makole established is relatively straightforward:
- Plant in well-draining soil that retains some moisture
- Provide regular watering during establishment
- Apply mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Once established, maintenance is minimal – just occasional watering during dry spells
- Allow space for the plant to spread and form its natural mat
The Bottom Line on Makole
While makole might not be the showiest plant in your garden, it offers something far more valuable – authentic Hawaiian heritage and reliable performance. If you’re passionate about native plants, supporting local ecosystems, or creating landscapes that truly belong in Hawaii, makole deserves a spot in your garden.
This humble ground cover proves that sometimes the best garden plants are the ones that work quietly behind the scenes, providing steady beauty and ecological benefits without demanding constant attention. In a world of high-maintenance ornamentals, makole offers the refreshing simplicity of a plant that just gets on with the business of being beautifully Hawaiian.
