Hau
Names
- ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi: Hau
- Scientific: Hibiscus tilaceus
Conservation Status
- NatureServe Heritage Rank G5 – Secure
Species Information
Hau is recognizable by its large and bight yellow flowers containing a dark red “eye spot” inside. It is a part of the Malvaceae family. Hau grows to heights of 4 to 10 m (13 to 33 ft) with a trunk up to 15 cm (5.9 in) in diameter (Little and Roger, 1989). Early Hawaiians used the wood of this species to build the outriggers of canoes, floats for fish nets, long spears for games, and for the cross sticks of kites. The fibrous inner bark of the Hau was also used to create ropes, matts, and bark cloth.
Distribution
This species is commonly found in the lowlands, especially on the shores, of the Hawaiian islands where it can form dense thickets.
Habitat
Lowland streams, at stream-mouths, and shorelines.
Threats
- Development of coastlines and waterways
- Damage to shorelines during storm surges
Plans & Projects
KAHANA STREAM RESTORATION PROJECT Ahupu‘a ‘O Kahana State Park, Kahana, O‘ahu
References & Additional Resources
Little Jr., Elbert L.; Roger G. Skolmen (1989). “Hau, sea hibiscus.” Common Forest Trees of Hawaii (Native and Introduced). United States Forest Service.
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