Hibiscus clayi

Description:

Kokio ula or Clay's hibiscusMalvaceae (Mallow family)Endemic to the Hawaiian IslandsIUCN: Critically EndangeredOahu (Cultivated)This is not the common red hibiscus that one sees growing everywhere in the city and along streets of Honolulu and Waikk. That one is the Chinese red hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis). www.flickr.com/photos/x3wolfgang/5792953302/in/photolist-...No, Clay's hibiscus or kokio ula is much rarer, but can be found growing in a few private yards, gardens and parks if one knows where to look.With so many flowers nearly always available, kokio ula makes a beautiful lei.Closeup of flowerwww.flickr.com/photos/dweickhoff/5113322360/in/photostream/Early Hawaiians grew both the native red and white hibiscuses near their houses for their flowers.The beautiful flowers were fashioned into striking lei, but lasting only a day.Hawaiians also pounded kokio with other plants, juice was strained, and taken to purify blood. The leaves were chewed and swallowed as a laxative or mothers would chew buds and given to infants and children as a laxative. Mother would also chew the buds and give to children or children would eat the seeds to strengthen a weak child.The wood was used by early Hawaiians to make a fine charcoal.NPH00008nativeplants.hawaii.edu/plant/view/Hibiscus_clayi