Hinahina - Geranium cuneatum subsp. tridens

The hinahina, or silver geranium, is a sub-alpine, low-growing, woody shrub. The subspecies of hinahina pictured is endemic, found only in the high elevation shrublands of Haleakala. The leaves have three to six conspicuous teeth at the tip and are silver due to the presence of many small hairs that reflect the sun's rays. The silver appearance is similar to that of the moon, or mahina. This may be the origin of the Hawaiian name for the plant. The tiny silver hairs also limit the amount of evaporation from leaves that are exposed to strong winds and harsh sunlight.