'Ilima

Description:

‘Ilima is a common shrub or ground cover found along the coast and in the dry and mesic forests of all of the Hawaiian Islands. It is classified as an indigenous plant in the Malvaceae family. ‘Ilima is recognized as the official island flower of O’ahu and the small (2–2.5 cm) bright orange or yellow flowers are often used to make beautiful and highly prized lei (garlands). ‘Ilima leis are among the most treasured lei and are difficult to make, requiring a thousand blossoms. The flowers bloom all year long and last for only a day. ‘Ilima attracts native pollinators such as the native yellow-faced bee (Hyaleus spp). The leaves (5–7.5 cm) range in shape from oval to almost round with a pointed end, and have jagged edges. ‘Ilima was also used medicinally. The juice squeezed from the flowers was used as a mild laxative for children, and the root bark mixed with flowers was used to treat asthma.