Euphorbia celastroides
EUPHORBIA CELASTROIDES (ʻAkoko)
Euphorbiaceae | Native Hawaiian
Euphorbiaceae
The Euphorbiaceae, the spurge family, is a large family of flowering plants. In common English, they are sometimes called euphorbias.
Native To:
Hawaii, Endemic
Plant Status:
Endangered/secure
Plant Habit:
Shrub-like, 2-6 ft tall
Plant Habitat:
Dry areas, with partial/full sun & drained soil
Cultural Uses
The name ʻAkoko comes from the Hawaiian word “koko,” meaning blood since the leaves turn red before they fall off. Also, the plant “bleeds” a milky sap when cut. Native Hawaiians used the red leaves to make tea for women after menstruation or childbirth to help them recover. It has been confirmed the red leaves have a higher concentration of iron than other
leaves.
Interesting Fact
When the leaves are about to fall off, they turn yellow and then red.