Popolo

Description:

Shrub up to 2m high. Herbaceous branching and semi woody main stem. Leaves simple lanceolate growing in threes from auxiliary and apical buds. Growth pattern promotes branching. Flowers simple perfect. Well defined calyx and corolla, up to 1cm dia. Flowers arranged in auxiliary cymes up to seven on one panicle. Fruit is a juicy drupe, purple when ripe. Edible. Popolo is considered a weed by some as it will sprout up on its own and grow vigorously even in the shade. This plant is also a medicine to many who are familiar with Laau lapaau. The berries are edible and tasty and are used to treat asthma and other respiratory ailments. There are also uses for every other part of this plant. Ask your Tutu! And please add any other info to the comments. Malama pono, a hui hou!

Habitat:

Urban disturbed to dry to wet forest. Near places of refuge and worship.