‘Uki‘uki

 The ‘uki‘uki (Dianella sandwicensis) is an endemic lily with distinctive blue berries. There are two additional forms of the ‘uki’uki: D. lavarum, and D. multipedicellata. They can be found on all of the Hawaiian Islands except for Ni‘ihau and Kaho‘olawe. They grow in most environments, from dry shrub land to the mountain wet and mesic forests, in full sun or shaded understory.

Hawaiians had many uses for the ‘uki‘uki. The leaves were used to make cordage and thatching for houses. The seeds make beautiful lei, and the blue berries were used as dye for kapa, bark cloth.

The beautiful blue berries may be tempting to eat, but they are not tasty and best left for the birds. The fruit is not poisonous, but they will stain your mouth blue.

The ‘uki‘uki is a fairly common plant in both landscapes and in the wild. It is proof that native plants can be strong and resilient, if given a chance.