'Ohi'a lehua

Description:

‘Ohi’a lehua is an endemic Hawaiian plant. It is polymorphic in form and size, ranging from small shrubs to trees 20+ meters tall. Flowers range in color -red, pink, salmon, yellow, or orange. Blossoms have a hair-like appearance and last for several days.

Habitat:

It is found in a variety of habitats – from lowland to montane wet and mesic forests, dry forests, subalpine shrublands, and on new lava flows. It is the most dominant tree in Hawaii. This particular specimen was a small shrub located roadside on the Kamehameha Schools Kapalama campus.

Notes:

‘Ohi’a lehua is highly valued and provides a critical habitat for native and endemic birds that feed on its rich nectar.