Akeake
Dodonaea viscosa
Also known as Hopbush, Hopseed Bush, Varnishleaf
Climate Match for your location
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Akeake is a tough, drought-tolerant evergreen shrub with small glossy leaves and clusters of tiny yellowish flowers followed by papery winged seed capsules. It is ideal for dry landscapes and coastal gardens where it thrives with minimal care.
Why grow it
Dodonaea viscosa outperforms many ornamental shrubs in arid and coastal settings where soil salinity and wind exposure limit options. Its tolerance for poor, sandy soils and minimal water once established makes it a lower-maintenance alternative to more demanding drought-tolerant species. The decorative winged seed capsules provide season-long visual interest after flowering, useful where extended foliage color is desired.
Watch out for
Akeake can take several seasons to develop a full form, requiring patience during establishment. In humid climates or with excessive irrigation, fungal issues may develop more readily than in its native dry habitat, so air circulation and well-draining soil become important considerations.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Sapindaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Hawaii and Pacific Islands
Native to: Arizona, Florida, Hawaii
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
Akeake is a tough, drought-tolerant evergreen shrub with small glossy leaves and clusters of tiny yellowish flowers followed by papery winged seed capsules. It is ideal for dry landscapes and coastal gardens where it thrives with minimal care.
Climate Match for your location
See how well Akeake grows in your area.
Enter your ZIP code and we'll show you how this plant fits your local climate.
Why grow it
Dodonaea viscosa outperforms many ornamental shrubs in arid and coastal settings where soil salinity and wind exposure limit options. Its tolerance for poor, sandy soils and minimal water once established makes it a lower-maintenance alternative to more demanding drought-tolerant species. The decorative winged seed capsules provide season-long visual interest after flowering, useful where extended foliage color is desired.
Watch out for
Akeake can take several seasons to develop a full form, requiring patience during establishment. In humid climates or with excessive irrigation, fungal issues may develop more readily than in its native dry habitat, so air circulation and well-draining soil become important considerations.
Overview
- Form
- Growth Rate
- Size
- Dormancy
- Family
- Sapindaceae
Native to the United States
Native Range
Hawaii and Pacific Islands
Native to: Arizona, Florida, Hawaii
Seasonality
Season of Interest
Shrub
Woody multi-stem plants at eye level.
Succession Role
Tolerances & Soil
Flood Tolerance
pH Range
Soil Texture
Establishment & Care
- Establishment
- Maintenance
- Propagation
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