Naupaka papa (Scaevola coriacea, dwarf naupaka) is a flat-lying, non-woody shrub from the Goodeniaceae, or fanflower family. It has succulent green leaves, dark purple fruit, and cream-colored flowers where the tips of the petals cluster together on one side, appearing as though the other half of the petal tips are missing. It typically occurs in hot, dry coastal sites on low, consolidated sand dunes. Naupaka papa is one of my favorite native plants, and it is also endemic to Hawaiʻi, meaning it is found nowhere else in the world.
Naupaka Papa and Native Hawaiian Plant Month: A Celebration of Rare and Endemic Plants in Hawaiʻi
Naupaka Papa and Native Hawaiian Plant Month: A Celebration of Rare and Endemic Plants in Hawaiʻi