Interesting Facts About the Yellow Hibiscus
BY KAPINA LANSDALE
There are seven species of hibiscus native to Hawaii. Yellow hibiscus grows on all Hawaiian Islands except Ni’ihau and Kaho’olawe. All three subspecies of the yellow hibiscus are listed as endangered species.
“The yellow hibiscus flower was declared the official state flower in 1988.“
Hawaiian Hibiscus State Flower
The territory of Hawaii named the hibiscus flower the official flower of Hawaii in 1923. Some considered the native red or Chinese red hibiscus the official flower until Hawaii’s legislature declared the yellow hibiscus the state flower in 1988.
Alternative Names
This striking and beautiful yellow hibiscus is also known as Ma’o hau hele, meaning “green traveling introduced hibiscus”. A bit deceptive because the flower is yellow, however, the flower turns green as they die.
Features + Characteristics
Although categorized as a shrub, it can grow up to 30 feet tall. Its large yellow flowers grow 4-6 inches in diameter, typically opening between 2pm and 4pm and close again between 9am and 1pm.
Survival
Predators such as goats, cattle, and pigs threaten the remaining yellow hibiscus plants in Hawaii. Other threats include alien plant species and urban development. Fire and other naturally occurring events in the past have also greatly reduced the number of plants. In 2007, a fire devastated the island of Oahu and destroyed 85% of the yellow hibiscus on the island.
Want a Home in Paradise?
If you or someone you know is looking to buy a first home, please Contact me. I would be honored to help make home ownership a reality. For more helpful tips and island information Join my Newsletter and be the first to get notified on new updates.