Native Plants of KHP: ʻĀhinahina o ʻEwa

Name: Achyranthes splendens var. rotundata(‘Āhinahina o ‘Ewa or ‘Ewa hinahina)Description: An endemic endangered shrub with silvery leaves and long flower/fruit spikes today found wild only in Kalaeloa, Mākaha Valley and at Ka‘ena Point, O‘ahu.Best Growing Conditions: Full sun; water once a week until established and then only during drought. This shrub normally lives only about five years or less.Interesting Facts: Without an ancient Hawaiian name, it is unknown if Achyranthes was important or useful to Hawaiians. ‘Āhinahina o ‘Ewa and ‘Ewa hinahina are recently-given names for the plant. A dense covering of reflective hairs makes the leaves appear silvery and protects the shrub from the damaging ultraviolet rays in its naturally sunny habitat. More information about Achyranthes can be found at: www.nativehawaiiangarden.orgText & photograph by Bruce P Koebele