`Ohi`a

`Ohi`a, Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud., is an endemic species of the family Myrtaceae. It has adapted to many ecological situations, developed into early successional stages to dominant species of the shrublands and mesic to wet forests, from near the sea level to 2,200 meters on all islands, except Niihau and Kahoolawe. Leaves of `ohi`a can vary greatly, from round, narrow, blunt, or pointed. The young `ohi`a leaves ("liko") are slightly reddish, the older ones dull or shiny green or hairy and leather-like in bog species. The flowers are composed of numerous bright red stamens forming tufts at branch ends. Occasionally, pink, yellow or white variations occur. The flowers are full of honey, which is a food of the i`iwi, a small bird with scarlet plumage that matches the lehua flower. Its bark is usually rough and fissured, separating into thick flakes or long thin strips.

The wood of the `ohi`a is dark, hard and durable. It was used for the gunwale in the manufacturing of outrigger canoes. Also because of its beautiful and reddish color, the `ohi`a wood is much used for fine cabinet work, carvings and floors. Ukulele keys are made from it because they do not slip as easily in their sockets as do those made of other woods. Medicinally, the leaves are used for tonic and for the cure of thrush. The flowers were used by the early Hawaiians for weaving garlands of lei. Held sacred to Pele, goddess of the volcano, the flowers could not be picked without first making a proper offering or else Pele would cause rain to fall.

`Ohi`a, Metrosideros polymorpha Gaud., an endemic species of the family Myrtaceae has adapted to many ecological situations, developed into many vegetative forms, ranging from low shrubs to erect trees standing as tall as 35 meters. It occurs from sea level to an elevation of 3000 meters. Its specific name "polymorpha" is very appropriate as it is the most variable tree within the Hawaiian Islands. It is one of the species that has successfully evolved into many forms and there are eight recognized varieties of `ohi`a. `Ohi`a is the island flower of Hawaii. It grows in all main islands except Niihau and Kahoolawe.