ōhiʻa
The ōhiʻa is a native Hawaiian tree known for its vibrant red flowers and adaptability to various environments. It plays a crucial role in the Hawaiian ecosystem, providing habitat and food for many native species, including birds like the ʻiʻiwi and honeycreepers. The tree can grow in diverse elevations, from coastal areas to volcanic slopes.
In addition to its ecological importance, the ōhiʻa is culturally significant to the Hawaiian people. It is often associated with the goddess Pele, representing strength and resilience. Unfortunately, the ōhiʻa is threatened by a disease called Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death, which has impacted many forests across the islands.