Native Plants
![](../_images/smarty_plants.gif)
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
![](../_images/mr_smarty_plants_logo_web_200w.jpg)
rate this answer
![](../_images/star_10.gif)
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
More Shrubs Questions
Does Helasia diptera absorb toxic substances from Dover Plains NY
March 09, 2012 - Dear Mr. Plants,
Halesia carolina is described as absorbing toxic substances: herbicides, pesticides and pollutants from water, air and soil. Does Halesia diptera do the same?
Thank you.
view the full question and answer
Plants wilting too quickly in Toledo OH
May 27, 2012 - The garden I have had recent issues with plants wilting all too quickly. I would like to know what types of plants would be hearty for the climate in Toledo, Ohio. I have a partly sunny front yard and...
view the full question and answer
Is Texas mountain laurel honey toxic?
May 25, 2015 - I have been told that honey produced from the flowers of my Texas Mountain Laurel (Sophora secundiflora) would not be safe to consume. Is this correct? The only information I have been able to find is...
view the full question and answer
Pruning overgrown Texas sage
February 15, 2016 - Texas sage bushes have been left to grow like mini trees. Can we have trimmed back to get a 'full' bush? Bottom 2 feet of plant look so dead. Will it sprout again as a bush if trimmed back and do...
view the full question and answer
Evergreen shrubs or small trees for privacy in Cumming GA
May 11, 2010 - I have a eight foot fence in my back yard. My back yard is full of trees and is very shady in the late spring and summer months and in the winter when the leaves fall is very bare. I am looking for...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |