This educational video, created by Lyon Arboretum, serves as an engaging and accessible introduction to Hawai‘i’s native plant species.
Aimed at students, educators, and lifelong learners, the video explains what makes a plant “native,” how native species arrived in the Hawaiian Islands, and the ecological and cultural roles they play today.
Definition of native plants
What it means for a species to be native, endemic, or introduced in a Hawaiian context.
Colonization of Hawai‘i by plants
How native plants arrived long ago via wind, water, or birds, and established themselves without human assistance.
Examples of native Hawaiian plants
Showcases iconic native species like ʻōhiʻa lehua, koa, and ʻaʻaliʻi.
Why native plants are important
Their role in maintaining biodiversity, providing habitat, and supporting traditional Hawaiian practices.
Threats to native ecosystems
Introduced species, habitat destruction, and climate change.
Call to action for conservation
Encourages stewardship and education to protect Hawai‘i’s unique botanical heritage.
