Hauhele ‘Ula

The hauhele ‘ula (Kokia drynarioides) is a small tree growing to a height of 20 feet (7 m). The flowers are some of the largest and most spectacular of the native Hawaiian plants. They grow up to 9 inches (22 cm) across. The flowers offer large quantities of sweet nectar to its pollinators.

The hauhele ‘ula is critically endangered in the wild. Only a handful of plants remain. It is a great loss to the native birds that feed on the nectar.

Fortunately, the hauhele ‘ula does well in cultivation. It is easy to care for, and the flowers are especially desirable in urban landscapes. It grows well in full sun, and is drought tolerant. Additionally, cultivated plants can be used to build a population to return to the wild.

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