Hawaii 'Ohi'a Lehua

Ecological Importance

The ʻōhiʻa lehua tree forms the backbone of Hawaii’s native rainforests, providing critical habitat and food for countless species. Its dense canopy helps regulate water cycles, reducing erosion and maintaining healthy watersheds that supply fresh water to communities throughout the islands.

Unfortunately, the ʻōhiʻa lehua is under threat due to the spread of Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (ROD), a fungal disease caused by Ceratocystis species. This devastating disease has led to the loss of thousands of trees across the islands, making conservation efforts crucial to preserving Hawaii’s forests. Visitors and residents can help protect ʻōhiʻa by avoiding the movement of soil, cleaning hiking gear and shoes, and following guidelines set by local conservation organizations.

The Legend of ʻŌhiʻa and Lehua

Beyond its ecological significance, the ʻōhiʻa lehua holds a deep cultural connection in Hawaiian mythology. According to legend, ʻŌhiʻa was a handsome warrior, and Lehua was his beloved. The volcano goddess Pele desired ʻŌhiʻa for herself, but when he refused her advances, she turned him into a tree. Heartbroken, Lehua pleaded with the gods to reunite them, and in response, they transformed her into the bright red blossom that grows on the ʻōhiʻa tree. It is said that if you pick a lehua flower, it will rain, symbolizing Lehua’s tears of grief.