LANDSCAPING

Ko‘oloa ‘ula—Landscape to Lei!

Few native Hawaiian shrubs combine the beauty of both foliage and flowers.  An exception is ko‘oloa ‘ula (Abutilon menziesii), sometimes called the “red ‘ilima.” While the Hawaiian name ‘ula suggests red flowers, there are actually several color forms ranging from red to burgundy, and pink to creamy-yellow.  But all share the same characteristic silky, heart-shaped silver-green leaves.  There are fewer than 500 of these endangered plants remaining in the remnant dry lands of O‘ahu, Lāna‘i, Maui, and Hawai‘i.  Fortunately though they are readily available at local nurseries.  Ko‘oloa ‘ula is one of the four native abutilons found in the

Hawaiian Islands

and the one most commonly seen in our landscapes.  This smaller-flowered cousin of the hibiscus has gained popularity over the years with its pleasant appearance and ease of culture.