‘Ōhi’a lehua comprises 80% of Hawai’I’s native forests and is regarded as the most important plant in Hawai’I’s native ecosystems. She plays a critical role in regulating the water table of native forests themselves, as well as providing habitat for native birds, limu (smaller ecosystems that will grow along ‘ōhi’a bark), and insects. Rapid Ohia Death (ROD) is a deadly fungus that will infect ‘ōhi’a trees through any open wound, it is critical to sanitize boots and gear to mitigate spread.

This plant is associated with reincarnation of Hawaiian gods and goddesses, as it is one of the first plants to sprout in fresh lava fields. It is said that if you pick an ‘ōhi’a flower, you cause Pele to cry, and it will rain on you. Early Hawaiian’s used ‘ōhi’a wood for tools, weapons, and medicinally. ‘Ōhi’a lehua may be used ceremonially in lei or hula, but due to the spread of ROD, she is usually substituted with ornamental alternatives.

‘Ōhi’a lehua loves rain or being watered. She can persist from maka’i to mauka as long as she is well regularly watered. This plant does not like to dry out or get too hot, but also needs soil with ample drainage. As long as you give her good conditions, she will continue to grow into a strong tree.