Hibiscus brackenridgei (Mao Hau Hele)

Hibiscus brackenridgei (Mao Hau Hele) is a shrub or small tree of open and airy to compact habit. Blooming in late winter to late spring and sporadically during the rest of the year, it boasts a profusion of large, pure yellow flowers, up to 4-6 in. across (10-15 cm), with a conspicuous, protruding, yellow staminal column. Borne at the tips of the branches, singly or in small clusters, the blossoms usually display a red or maroon center. They stand out against the foliage of slightly rough, medium green leaves, 2-6 in. long (5-15 cm). Mao Hau Hele is a Hawaiian endemic plant that is native to dry forests and shrub lands at elevations from 400 to 2,600 feet. It has three subspecies, which are all federally listed as endangered species. Mao Hau Hele is a beautiful landscape accent with dramatic blooms over a long season. It is the official flower of the State of Hawaii.

• Grows up to 3-15 ft. tall (90-450 cm) and 8-15 ft. wide (240-450 cm).
• Thrives in full sun to part shade in dry, well-drained soils. Tolerates some light shade, but best flower production and disease resistance occur in full sun. Drought tolerant once established.
• Great as a specimen, as a flowering hedge or screen or for containers.
• Keep an eye out for mealy bugs, white flies, spider mites and aphids. Overwatering can cause powdery mildew on leaves and root rot.
• Prune back after flowering. Young plants should be pruned to promote branching. Mao Hau Hele has a weak root system and can topple over if top heavy. Pruning about 1/3 can prevent this.
• Propagate by seed, semi-hardwood cuttings, air layering, grafting.
• Native to Hawaii.
• Rare flowers: beauty beyond ordinary gardens