Uhiuhi
Caesalpinia kavaiensis
- Native to:
- Hawaii
iNaturalist: © sea-kangaroo (iNaturalist #140125390)






Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Fabaceae
- Genus:
- Caesalpinia
- Species:
- Caesalpinia kavaiensis
- USDA Symbol:
- CAKA5
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Shrub , Tree
- Height:
- 1500 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- High
- Bloom Months:
- mar,apr,may,jun,jul,aug,sep
- Bloom Colors:
- yellow
Wildlife Benefits
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- birds, butterflies
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- well-drained, rocky or sandy soil
- pH:
- 6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- native to dry, rocky slopes in Hawaii
Propagation & Germination
- Scarification:
- Seed coat scarification required before sowing
- Notes:
- Seeds require scarification (nicking or hot water treatment) to break physical dormancy; germination occurs within 2-4 weeks under warm conditions.