Native Hawaiian Variety
The so-called spurflower, or ‘ala‘ala wai nui (wahine), is a similar species that originated in Australia and became one of the early Polynesian plant introductions. It is considered an indigenous Hawaiian plant. Although the scent and flavor are not as strong as its cousin, this member of the Plectranthus genus (P. parviflorus) has been used in lei making. It is often found in dry, rocky places on all major Hawaiian Islands, from sea level to 4,250 feet in elevation.
The website www.bioinfo.org reports that traditional peoples used this plant to treat syphilitic sores. And like its mint relatives, a tea made from this plant can help to soothe an upset stomach and other digestive ailments.
MAHALO Barbara!
