Koki'o ke'oke'o Aloalo - White Hibiscus
We are blessed with a bounty of tropical flora in Hawai'i and the Hawaiian people as a whole revel in the natural beauty of the 'Aina (land). As native Hawaiians we celebrate the natural beauty of our environment through Mele (song) and Hula (dance) and in modern times the love for our flora is manifest in our Hawaiian Fashion's such as our colorful Aloha Shirts and Mu'u mu'u's. This serial post will host some of our revered and celebrated blossoms that have inspired artists, lovers, and poets in times past and today.
One of Hawaii's 5 endemic species of Aloalo or Hibiscus - Koki'o ke'oke'o.
This rare, federally listed endangered species is one of only 2 varieties of fragrant Hibiscus in the world(both are endemic to Hawaii) and originates from the Waimea Valley on the Garden Island of Kauai. Drought resistant, this variety of Aloala should be on the top of the list of endemic plants to add to your landscaping, here in Hawai'i nei. If you would like more information on going native in your yard, or need design ideas don't hesitate to contact me regarding indigenous and endemic plantings that support our amazing and embattled environment. Planting a Koki'o ke'o ke'o can go a long way to beautify your world, conserve water, and help restore our threatened native species.
In Ancient Times:
Celebrated in song and legends for it's fragrance, the flower buds of the White Hibiscus where often used as a laxitive and the plant fiber twisted into cordage.
Thanks for visiting - Pua Po'alima - Fridays Flower - The Fragrant White Hibiscus!
Hua'oli Po'alima Aloha - Happy Aloha Friday!
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Mahalo nui loa and have a wonderful weekend!
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