Kokiʻo
myoporum tenuifolium
Also known as: ["Gau Gau","Kokiʻo ʻulaʻula"]
Overview
A small evergreen shrub native to Hawaii, known for its small, glossy leaves and clusters of pinkish-white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus: | Myoporum |
| Botanical Name: | Myoporum tenuifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens, rockeries, or as a container plant in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, though it can tolerate some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun in arid regions; ensure adequate light indoors by placing near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in dark corners.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; avoid overwatering, especially in winter; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; topdress with mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Thrives in warm climates; ideal range is 60–85°F (15–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 20°F (-6°C) but prefers mild winters.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 3–4 months with balanced, slow-release fertilizer
Fertilize lightly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; stop feeding in fall and winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote airflow and compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown branches.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged branches; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; apply until water drains from the bottom of the pot or soil surface; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 1–2 weeks during spring and summer; reduce frequency to once a month or less in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Stunted growth, leaf drop, and potential dieback if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch in winter; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering if exposed to prolonged extreme heat without adequate water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; mist foliage during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if used monthly during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest parts of Myoporum tenuifolium may experience mild gastrointestinal issues. The berries and leaves are the primary toxic components, but the effects are usually not severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Myoporum tenuifolium by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The berries and leaves contain compounds that may cause discomfort but are not typically life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicMyoporum tenuifolium contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The berries and leaves are the most toxic parts, though the effects are generally not severe.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Myoporum tenuifolium suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly salt-tolerant and thrives in coastal conditions.
Q: How often should I water Myoporum tenuifolium?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Myoporum tenuifolium attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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