kokia

Kokia is a genus of flowering plants in the mallow family (Malvaceae). The genus is native to the Pacific, with a concentration of species in Hawaii. Species in the genus are evergreen shrubs or small trees, adapted to dry to mesic environments. They typically produce showy, hibiscus-like flowers, followed by capsule fruits containing seeds.

Distribution and habitat: Kokia species occur on several Hawaiian islands and, more rarely, on other Pacific islands. Historically they occupied dry forest and scrub habitats; habitat loss, invasive species, and land development have reduced their ranges.

Conservation: Several Kokia species are threatened or feared extinct in the wild. Ex situ conservation programs maintain living plants in botanical gardens and seed banks, while reintroduction and habitat restoration projects are pursued where feasible. Research on pollination biology and disease resistance supports recovery efforts.

Notable species: The genus includes Kokia cookei (Cooke's kokio), Kokia kauaiensis (Kauai kokio), and Kokia hawaiiensis (Hawaiian kokio). These Hawaiian species have experienced severe declines and are central to conservation programs, with ongoing efforts to stabilize and, where possible, reestablish wild populations.