Maiapilo is a shrub-like plant that is endemic to Hawaiʻi. It is a member of the caper family and is closely related to the culinary pepper. The plant is known for its showy white flowers that bloom with a nice lemony fragrance. The plant grows to be about 3-5 feet tall and has fleshy green leaves. Maiapilo are pollinated by moths and the plant produces small, orange fruits about 1 1/2 inch in diameter. The fruits are edible and have a sour taste. Maiapilo is a popular ornamental plant and is also used in traditional Hawaiian medicine.
Once established, it’s very drought and salt tolerant, but will not tolerate root trauma. Allow four weeks for germination and transplant after 2-4 sets of leaves have developed. Avoid over-watering after three months, and allow to dry between waterings.
This plant was traditionally used in Hawaiian medicine, lāʻau lapaʻau, to treat a variety of ailments, including stomachache, diarrhea, and constipation.
We do not recommend use of any plants for medicinal or medical treatment unless under guidance of an experienced cultural practitioner, doctor, or other medical professional.All seed packets are 4.75″ tall x 3.25″ wide and ≤ 4 grams (.008 lbs).
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