Abutilon
Background Information
The Red Ilima is rare in the wild, I've read that they outplant it in the Waianae Mountain Range. When flowering it is easily identified by this beautiful red color and the flower hangs upside down. What an interesting set up.
Background
Red Ilima is also known Ko'oloa 'ula. 'Ula in Hawaiian means red. The plant is endemic and federally listed on the endangered species list. The plant can tolerate harsh conditions such as sunny and dry areas. The plant only grows on Oahu, Lanai, Maui, and the Big Island. I thought it was interesting that it doesn't grow on Kauai and Molokai. As you can see, the red flower looks like a mini hibiscus and it is in fact related to the hibsicus family. Although pretty, the flower doesn't produce a smell. The scientific name is Abutilon menziesii.
Green Flower Abutilon - Even though I've been away from the island for five years, I'm still interested in Hawaiian Native Plants. My hiking friends are still active and doing conservation and I enjoy looking through their post on facebook and instagram. I seen a picture on a rare abutilon, these photos were taken by Baron. He said these plants are very rare. According to the Fish and Wildlife Service, the name of this plant is called Abutilon sandwicense. While doing research he was right, it is critically endangered.
Known as Green Flower Indian Mallow
Critically Endangered & decreasing population
Only grows in the Waianae Mountain Range on Oahu
Background Information
Shrub which can grow between 5-10 feet tall
Big heart shaped leaves
Flower color - mostly green, yellow pistil
Endemic to the island of Oahu
Sources
Native Plants Hawaii, Abutilon sanwicense
Native Plants Hawaii, Abutilon menziesii
US Fish and Wildlife, Greenflower Indian Mallow