Plants are the basis of healthy ecosystems from ridge to reef across Hawaii. The islands have truly unique and diverse ecosystems that provide our communities with a myriad of critical resources.
NTBG’s Hawaii Education Series provides students and families with fun and inspirational videos and activities exploring the plants, cultural resources, and people that make Hawaii special. Explore the videos below and check out more resources on our education page.
Ferns are among the oldest living plants on the planet and play many important roles in their ecosystems, especially in Hawaii. Check out this video to get a quick overview of ferns in their natural environment, fern anatomy, fern lab propagation, and a fun experiment to do at home or in the classroom!
The landscape of Hawaii is filled with what we refer to as ‘canoe plants.’ These plants might even be growing in your school playground! So, what is a canoe plant? Canoe plants were brought to the Hawaiian Islands by our ancestors, the Polynesian voyagers. Check out this video to get a quick overview of canoe plants and a how-to on making a Ti (Ki) leaf lei.
Learn about traditional Hawaiian land management systems (Ahupua’a) through a virtual visit to NTBG’s Limahuli Garden and Preserve. Humans have inhabited and cared for Limahuli valley for over a thousand years. It is home to many of our native plants and animals like our native ʻaʻo, moths, ‘o’opu, laua’e ferns, papala trees, and so much more.
All native plants in peoples’ home landscape help preserve biodiversity. This is important for the future conservation of native species. Want to be a good neighbor to Hawaii’s native flora? Learn more about gardening with native plants at ntbg.org/gardening and do your part to save plants today.