Alahe’e grows into a tree and is adorned with glossy leaves. It produces small but extremely fragrant white flowers. She is in the same family as coffee (Rubiaceae), but no you cannot make a drink with it. This plant is a lovely choice for a Christmas tree as it grows in a similar growth shape as evergreens.

The durable hardwood of the alahe’e was used by early Hawaiians for tool-making, such as digging tools, spears, fish hooks and nets. The leaves were used to produce a dark brown/black dye, and the fragrant flowers were used in lei making. It was said that when an entire alahe’e tree is in bloom, the fragrance can be smelled from a distance away.

Alahe’e is generally an easy plant to take care and doesn’t require too much attention. It enjoys full sun, and seems to be somewhat pest resistant. Definitely you want this plant in one of your sunniest spots, and this plant does not need to be watered every day.