Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death

This exhibit brings awareness to "Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death" and teaches how to prevent the spread of the deadly fungus that is destroying thousands of ʻōhiʻa forested acres. The native Hawaiian flowering ʻŌhiʻa lehua tree is vital to the state's ecosystem and Hawaiian culture. The beautiful ʻōhiʻa provides habitat to many species including endangered native Hawaiian birds. With it's ability to grow on volcanic rock, ʻōhiʻa trees help fill aquifers that contribute to our water supply. Immensely important to Hawaiian culture, ʻōhiʻa is considered a kinolau or physical manifestation of Kū, Laka, Pele, Hiʻiaka, and Kāne, and has been used in making lei. An incurable fungus is attacking these important trees, killing them more quickly than we can stop it. Learn about ʻōhia lehua and how to stop the spread of Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death.

Sincere appreciation to Ambyr U. Mokiao-Lee, Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (Rod) Statewide Outreach Coordinator. This exhibit was possible with her generous assistance. Lean more about ROD: https://cms.ctahr.hawaii.edu/rod/HOME.aspx