HONOLULU — Conservation hui throughout the state will host events this month to share information and encourage the planting and protection of ʻōhiʻa lehua, a keystone species of our native forests and State Endemic Tree of Hawaiʽi.

Although known for picturesque flowers ranging from scarlet red to vivid yellow, ʻōhiʻa lehua can be appreciated for more than its beauty. ʻŌhiʻa comprise 80 percent of Hawaiʻi’s native forests and play a key role in watershed protection and erosion prevention. ʻŌhiʻa are referred to as ka ʻupena o ke ola — the “net of life” which provide food, water and habitat for several native animals and invertebrates — but their numbers are under threat.

Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (ROD), a fungus discovered on Hawaiʻi Island in 2014, can kill ʻōhiʻa and spread over long distances, potentially impacting the trees statewide.

Celebrate, learn more about, and spread the love for this vital piece of our forest ecosystem at a community event in November as part of ʻŌhiʻa Love Fest.

On Saturday, Nov. 4, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., look for the Hale ʽŌhiʽa at the Maui Nui Botanical Garden’s annual Arbor Day celebration. Learn about harvesting seeds to grow your own or adopt a ready-to-plant seedling.

MNBG will also be giving away an additional 1,000 native trees in partnership with Hawaiian Electric Company, the Maui Association of Landscape Professionals (MALP) and Kaulunani Urban and Community Forestry Program. The MALP Garden Expo will feature horticultural and tree care classes, a plant sale and free activities.

To learn more and receive updates on event schedule and activities, visit:

https://cms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/rod/EDUCATION-OUTREACH/%CA%BB%C5%8CHI%CA%BBA-LOVE-FEST.