lehua

Lehua refers to the blossom of the ʻōhiʻa tree, Metrosideros polymorpha, a flowering evergreen native to the Hawaiian Islands. The term can denote either the flower or the tree itself in Hawaiian usage. Lehua blossoms are typically bright red to deep crimson and appear in dense, brush-like inflorescences. Each flower has five petals and numerous prominent stamens, giving the bloom a fluffy appearance. The leaves are glossy and dark green, and the tree can vary in size from compact individuals to tall forest giants, depending on site conditions.

Ecology and distribution: Ohia lehua is a dominant component of Hawaii’s native forests, especially on older lava flows and in wet to mesic habitats. It often establishes after disturbance and frequently serves as a nurse tree for other native species. The blossoms are an important nectar source for native pollinators, including native honeycreepers, as well as for a wide range of insects.

Cultural significance: Lehua is deeply woven into Hawaiian culture and symbolism. The flower is commonly used in leis and is associated with love and resilience in legends and chants. Ohia trees and lehua blossoms appear in traditional practices, stories, and contemporary Hawaiian art and symbolism.

Conservation and threats: In recent decades, Rapid Ohia Death (ROD) has emerged as a major threat to ohia forests. ROD is caused by fungal pathogens in the Ceratocystis genus, notably Ceratocystis huliohia and Ceratocystis lukuohia, which can kill trees rapidly and fragment forest stands. Efforts focus on monitoring, prevention, and restoration to protect ohia habitats and the species that depend on them.