La`au Kanaha Kumamawalu....48th Plant
`Akia, False `Ohelo
Wikstroemia uva-ursi
The `Akia family (Thymelaeaceae), which is fairly small,
is represented by several introduced and native species to Hawaii.
Authors disagree on the poisonous character of the plants. It
is known to have been used to dope fish into a stupefied state
which made them easier catch. This species is native to Kauai,
`O`ahu, and Moloka`i, found near the beach in the drier areas.
The `Akia's gross appearance is much like the `Ohelo, yet upon
closer examination one sees significant differences, i.e. the`Akia
fruit has no "piko", or navel, like `Ohelo berry.
Kekahi La`au Aku NO
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