In the Garden
Ko‘oloa‘ula
HUI KU MAOLI OLA
Ko'oloa'ula is available at Oahu Home Depot stores for up to $12 each.
Latin name: Abutilon menziesii It is LIKELY that the main reason this plant is on the federal endangered species list is because of a lack of suitable habitat. Only about 5 percent of native lowland dry forest remains throughout the state, and its the only habitat in which this, and countless other species are able to thrive.Description: The dense shrubs grow 4 to 8 feet tall with light green foliage. Leaves and branches are somewhat velvety to the touch. The plant's most appealing feature is its flowers which range from dark maroon to bright yellow, and can be strung into stunning lei.
The one pictured here is practically white with pink edging on the petals. The flowers, which are about 1- to 1-1/2 inches wide, emerge from the leaf axis and hang upside down. Flowers, sometimes hundreds of them simultaneously, bloom throughout the year. If enough flowers are gathered, a subtle, but sweet fragrance is noticeable.
Distribution: Ko'oloa'ula is found sparingly in dry forests of Lanai, East Maui, and the Big Island. A previously undocumented population was discovered in 1981 in an abandoned sugarcane field in Ewa, on Oahu.
Landscape uses and care: This is a definite must-have for any plant collector or weekend warrior gardener. Ko'oloa'ula thrives in full sun and dry areas. Watering is OK, but it is best to soak the ground and avoid watering again until the soil dries completely.
If your garden is prone to rose beetles, place this plant in an area that is lighted at night. This should prevent any damage this pest might cause.
Rick Barboza co-owns Hui Ku Maoli Ola, a Native Hawaiian plant nursery, with Matt Schirman. Contact him at 259-6580 or e-mail rickbarboza@hawaii.rr.com. "In the Garden" is a Friday feature. Gardening Calendar
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