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Tuesday - February 17, 2009
From: Pukalani, HI
Region: Hawaii
Topic: Privacy Screening, Shrubs
Title: Hedge plant for Maui.
Answered by: Joe Marcus
QUESTION:
Question: I live in Pukalani, Maui, Hawaii and would like to put a "living fence" around my yard for some privacy. Ideally, I want something that is going to grow fast and about 8+ feet tall for a hedge-like fence. I'd prefer something safe for my dogs, so I need to make sure that nothing with poisonous berries or leaves end up in the yard (i.e. no oleander). MahaloANSWER:
Growing conditions can vary widely in Hawaii depending on local weather, soil properties and other conditions. We are not experts on poisonous plants, though we know of no problems with the species listed in this answer. However, you can search many toxic plant databases online or consult with your vet to be sure.
Here is a list of Hawaiian native plant species that might work for you:
Hibiscus waimeae, Koki‘o ke‘oke‘o or Hawaiian white hibiscus
Pipturus albidus, Mamaki
Psydrax odorata, Alahe'e
Senna gaudichaudii, Kolomana
Cibotium glaucum, Hapu'u pulu or Hawaiian tree fern
Styphelia tameiameiae, 'A'ali'i mahu
Dodonaea viscosa, 'A'ali'i
Gardenia brighamii, Nanu
Nototrichium sandwicense, Kulu'i
Nototrichium humile, Humble Kulu'i
Pittosporum confertiflorum, Ha'awa
Santalum freycinetianum, 'Iliahi or Sandalwood
Sesbania tomentosa, 'Ohai
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