Dianella sandwicensis, known as Uki in native Hawaiian, is monocot member of the Asphodelaceae family which includes some well-known succulent genera such as Haworthia and Aloe. The actinomorphic flowers with anatomy in triplicate causes it to readily resemble flowers of the true lilies, leading to a common name of flax lilies for Dianella plants in general. The species is endemic to Hawaii and has a natural range spanning many of the islands where it can grow in many of their environments, whether dry or wet, or low to high altitude. It can flower at any time of year and produces vividly colored purple-blue fruit which were prized for incorporation into seed lei and used for dye. The leaves were further used, being braided into cord or used to thatch houses. In the modern day the plant is still used as a source of natural dye and for ornamental planting. Thanks to the Lyon Arboretum for making this plant available to me for my assignment for Hana Hou!
