The Urban Landscape

Four levels of plants and organisms create a mature forest. The canopy is made of the tallest trees like koa and ‘ōhia. The middle story is filled by small trees and shrubs like the Kōlea lau nui. The understory is filled with low growing plants like ‘uhaloa and laukahi kuahiwi. The fourth level of a mature forest is the soil. A healthy topsoil is full of organic matter, and a diverse community of fungus and microorganisms that make minerals and nutrients available to plants. The goal of restoration is biodiversity. The ecosystem becomes stronger and more resilient with proper diversity at all levels of the forest.

The kōlea lau nui (Myrsine lessertiana) is an attractive endemic medium-sized tree that is common in the forests of almost all of the major Hawaiian Islands. The Hawaiian name Kōlea lau nui, means “large leaf plover.” One theory is that the tree was named for the leaf buds that resemble the beak of a plover bird. The most attractive feature of the tree is the bright magenta colored young leaves, which mature to become large dark green leaves. The strong wood was used for construction and canoes. The leaves, bark, and flowers were used medicinally for childhood diseases and thrush.

Another plant with medicinal properties is the ‘uhaloa (Waltheria indica). The ‘uhaloa is a weedy indigenous plant that has strong anti-inflammatory properties.

The endangered laukahi kuahiwi (Plantago pachyphylla) has potent medicinal properties too. Laukahi refers to the plantain plant. Kuahiwi means mountain. Laukahi kuahiwi is the wild endemic species of plantain. The endemic laukahi kuahiwi is only in the wild. The leaves of the Laukahi are a good tonic when eaten, and aid healing skin boils and wounds when applied topically.

Restoring the native ecosystem doesn’t have to be limited to the wilderness. The urban environment is a part of nature too. Many indigenous and endemic plants are relatively easy to grow. When we grow and care for native plants at home, were also affecting the overall natural balance. Gardening helps us connect to the ‘āina. A sustainable native garden teaches us to be patient and nurturing toward other living beings.

Sometimes the least glamorous native plants have the most benefit to people and the environment. When possible, choose to introduce native plants into your garden for looks, for usefulness, and as herbal medicine. Choose a careful mix of plants that create a sustainable maintenance-free ecosystem. Many local nurseries provide a variety of native plants. And please, never collect native plants from the wild.

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