Forest Canopy with Blooming 'Ohi'a - Metrosideros polymorpha

The most abundant and widespread native tree in the Hawaiian Islands, the 'ohi'a grows from near sea level to 8,000 feet in elevation and can grow to be 100 feet tall. The 'ohi'a tree is the first to appear on a fresh lava flow, and along with koa, is the primary canopy in Hawaiian rain forests.

Hawaiians believe that forests of 'Ohi'a are sacred to Pele, the goddess of volcanoes. When angry, Pele destroys the 'Ohi'a with streams of lava. The bark produces a black dye, and tea can be brewed from the reddish leaves. 'Ohi'a blossoms are used in lei making.