Pua kenikeni

In the Hawaiian language, kenikeni means "dime or ten cents." The fragrant Pua kenikeni is also known as the "ten cent" flower alluding to the price it sold for in the 1930's when first introduced to Hawai`i. It is native to the South Pacific.

The tree as a small shrub can grow up to 15 feet tall. It has a rather skinny trunk and green, elliptical blunt-tipped leaves which can grow between 4 to 8 inches long. The fragrant flowers grow in clusters and tend to be located at the end of branches. Flower clusters are generally dispersed throughout the trees. New buds are white. As the flower matures, it turns from white in color to a creamy yellow and finally to a deep orange. Orange balls are actually the fruit. Plucking them (and the flowers) will encourage more flower growth by directing the energy of the plant away from producing seed.

The tree flowers throughout the year. It prefers full sun with moderate watering.

Traditional Cultural and Medicinal Usages

• Flowers are used in lei making
• The wood is of fine grain and has been used in making handles for tools and handicrafts