ʻIlima
ʻIlima
Names
- ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi: ʻIlima
- Common name: Golden mallow
- Scientific: Sida fallax
Growing Needs
- Full Sun
- Low moisture needs
- Can grow 0.5-4 feet tall
Species Information
‘llima is the island flower of Oʻahu. It is a low-growing shrub with small, bright yellow to orange flowers used extensively in lei making. Its compact growth and colorful blooms enhance gardens while providing nectar for native pollinators.
It thrives in full sun with moderate water and naturally grows on dry coastal plains, ridges, and lava flows. ‘llima is drought-tolerant, useful for erosion control, habitat restoration, and ornamental landscaping, supporting bees and butterflies.
Distribution
Found on all main Hawaiian Islands, and on Midway and Nihoa (UH).
Habitat
Dry coastal plains, ridges, lava flows, lowland dry forests
Threats
- Rusts of ʻilima (2013), Scot Nelson, University of Hawaiʻi
References & Additional Resources
- Sida fallax, Hawaiian Native Plant Propagation Database, University of Hawaiʻi
- Sida fallax, Plants of Hawaiʻi Database, Bishop Museum
