Scientific Name: Hedyotis terminalis
Endemic: All of HI except Ni’ihau and Kaho’olawe
Description: Shrubs, small trees or even lianas (woody vine like plants) that reach heights of up to fifteen feet tall. They have extremely glossy green leaves that come out in pairs which alternate up the branch. The new leaves or liko are easily distinguishable because they almost look like a pair of puckered up lips ready to give you a big, fat, manono kiss. The flowers, which are usually green but can also be purple, have narrow petals and look very star shaped and can come out in clusters of up to 30 or more individuals. The fruits are numerous and can be either dark blue, purple or even black.
Distribution: Manono are generally found in mesic to wet forests and bogs from 800 ft. to over 6000 ft. in elevation on all of the main islands except Ni’ihau and Kaho’olawe.
Cultural Uses: The flower and fruit clusters as well as the liko are highly valued and were commonly used in lei.
Landscape Uses and Care: Manono needs constant watering in partial shade otherwise it is very hard to keep. In those conditions it will have its very unique growth habit and be a great addition to any landscape. Look out for spidermites that can deform the leaves
Manono
