Ohia Lehua Pillows
Description: The Koolau mountain range in Oahu is in the background, and ohia lehua is the Hawaiian name for metrosideros polymorpha, the beautiful tree with red flowers sacred to Pele (the goddess of volcanoes). Together with certain ferns, they are the very first plants to emerge from the land when the lava has cooled and the landscape is barren. They grow slowly, breaking rock into soil, creating a place where the other plants can thrive. You know you are in a special place when you see them, for they are usually found in the high hills and mountains of Hawaii – such a beautiful tree! This particular specimen is at the higher elevation area of the Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens. On the day I was inspired to paint this scene, recent heavy rains creat...
