Sanicula sandwicensis

Common Names

Hawai'i Blacksnakeroot, Hawaiian Black Snakeroot, Snakeroot

Summary

Hawai'i blacksnakeroot is a perennial herb native to the Hawaiian Islands in the Apiaceae family, with solitary stems that are profusely branched and a vertical fusiform root caudex. It grows to about 20–70 cm tall, has numerous basal leaves that are papery, orbicular, 3–12 cm wide and palmately 3–5-parted nearly to the petiole, and yellow flowers in umbels (2–5 per cluster) totaling about 20, with 3–7 perfect and about 15 staminate flowers; the fruit is ovoid, 3.5–4 mm long and 3 mm wide with stout hooked bulbous prickles.

Propagation is by seeds (2–4 week stratification and 2–4 week germination) or division. Cultivation favors moist, shaded forest understories, spring or early fall planting, spacing 12–18 inches, and well-draining, rich soil with pH 6.0–7.0 and consistent moisture. Maintenance includes balanced organic fertilizer every 4–6 weeks and pruning in late winter/early spring. Uses include traditional Hawaiian medicine, biodiversity and erosion control, and cultural significance. It is generally safe for humans and animals, though large quantities may cause mild irritation, and common pests include whiteflies, mealybugs, aphids, and spider mites, with organic control options.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

12-28 inches

Spread

1-2 feet

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally partial shade.

Soil Type

Well-draining, organic-rich soil, pH 6.0–7.0

Soil Drainage

Well-drained

Soil pH

6.0-7.0, slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

Yellow

Bloom Time

Fall

Foliage Color

Green

Growth Rate

Moderate

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter

Propagation Methods

Seeds and Division