Pua Kala

Pua kala (Argemone glauca) is closely related to the Mexican poppy. It grows in the dry parts of all main islands from sea level to over 6,000 feet (2,000 m). It does well in sunny dry environments, and is fire tolerant.

Pua kala means “thorny flower” in Hawaiian. They are one of the few plants to retain sharp thorns on the leaves, stems and seed capsules. They also have a poisonous sap. These defenses are all distasteful to grazing animals, which enables it to grow where other native plants can’t. Some people might even consider this plant a weed.

The sap of the pua kala is related to the opium poppy, but not as powerful. It was used by Hawaiians to soothe pain from toothaches and ulcers. The sap is very bitter and can upset the stomach if eaten.

The pua kala is one of the few native plants that can be found in cow pastures, because cattle will not eat it. It can be useful as a barrier to grazing animals. Native plants can have a chance to grow to maturity behind the protection of the pua kala.

The flowers are large and attractive. These plants can do well as low maintenance landscaping in hot dry places.