By Jassaint Denis
As part of our Fall 2023 Internship Program, each intern was paired with a plant that holds particular significance at NTBG. Their task was to delve into and gain insights about their plant through the lens of NTBG’s various gardens, departments, and voices. Each intern crafted a story that captures their journey with their plant.
Originally from Anse-d’Hainault, Haiti, Jassaint Denis is a fall 2023 NTBG intern currently living in the U.S. and studying sustainability and environmental science.
Jassaint created this photo story which explores the profound and symbiotic relationship between people and the ʻōhiʻa lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha).
Identity
The ʻōhiʻa lehua, scientifically known as Metrosideros polymorpha, is not just a plant; it’s a symbol of resilience, cultural heritage, and ecological harmony in the Hawaiian Islands. With its vibrant blossoms and sturdy presence, the ʻōhiʻa lehua has long been celebrated as a keystone species in Hawaiian ecosystems and an integral part of the native Hawaiian culture.
ʻŌhiʻa lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha var. glaberrima) Photo credit: Ken Wood
First impression
I have always prided myself on not judging a book by its cover, yet I found myself doing just that when I first encountered an ʻōhiʻa. During a visit with David to see an ʻōhiʻa for my project, the plant I observed did not initially strike me as particularly attractive. Devoid of flowers and not yet fully mature, it did not make a strong impression. However, I couldn’t shake the feeling that if NTBG was caring for this plant, there had to be something special about it.
Botanical significance
The lehua flowers are vibrant and can range in color from red to yellow, depending on the species.
ʻŌhiʻa trees are ecologically important, as they are often the first plants to colonize new lava flows in Hawaiʻi.
Photo credit: Seana Walsh
Cultural importance
In Hawaiian culture, the lehua is associated with the Pele, the goddess of fire, lightning, and volcanoes.
The lehua is considered sacred, and there are various legends, stories, songs, and chants related to its significance in Hawaiian mythology.
Photo credit: Hālau Hula Ka Lehua Tuahine
Ecological role
ʻŌhiʻa trees are critical to the Hawaiian ecosystem, providing habitat for various species, contributing to soil stabilization, and protecting Hawaiʻi’s watersheds.
Photo credit: Seana Walsh
Conservation challenges
The ʻōhiʻa tree has faced threats, including the Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death, a disease caused by a fungus, which has prompted conservation efforts to protect this important species.
Photo credit: UH College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources
NTBG public outreach efforts
NTBG is dedicated to the conservation and research of tropical plants, and is involved in initiatives to conserve ʻōhiʻa trees.
ʻŌhiʻa Love Fest Hoʻolauleʻa & Plant Sale 2023
Celebrate Hawaiian biodiversity and our beloved ʻōhiʻa with a native plant sale, local vendors, ʻōhiʻa-themed presentations, and more!
ʻĀina Day
Celebrate the ways we can mālama Hawaiʻi through plants. Take home a free ʻōhiʻa tree and learn how to care for Hawaiian native plants through educational activities, cultural demonstrations, and more.
