Ōhi`a Lehua endemic to Hawai`i, is the most variable Hawaiian plant. It is one of the first plants to colonize barren lava flows and grows from Mauka to Makai making it the most abundant tree in the islands. Hawaiians use this plant for many things from making papa ku'i 'ai (poi boards), i'e kuku (kapa beaters) medicine, leis, and much more. The `Ōhi`a leaves are cast from actual `Ōhi`a leaves.
Rapid 'Ōhiʻa Death can quickly kill 'Ōhiʻa trees. Over one million trees have already died. To prevent it be sure to clean your shoes well when hiking and do not move any 'Ōhiʻa. For more information click on this link
