Maʻo
Maʻo
Names
- ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi: Maʻo, huluhulu
- Common name: Hawaiian cotton
- Scientific: Gossypium tomentosum
Growing Needs
- Full Sun
- Low moisture needs
- Can grow 1.5-4.5 feet tall
Species Information
Maʻo is a shrub with silvery-green leaves and soft yellow-to-orange flowers, historically used for fiber and dye. Its flowers provide nectar for insects, while its foliage adds ornamental appeal.
It thrives in full sun with low water needs and grows naturally on dry ridges and coastal lava flows. Maʻo is ideal for restoration, erosion control, and landscaping, supporting native pollinators in pioneer habitats.
Distribution
Endemic to all main Hawaiian islands except Hawaiʻi Island
Habitat
Dry ridges, coastal lava flows, and sandy soils in lowland and mid-elevation dry areas
References & Additional Resources
- Gossypium tomentosum, University of Hawaiʻi
- Gossypium tomentosum, Plants of Hawaiʻi, Bishop Museum
