SafePlants

Hawai'i Silversword (Argyroxiphium sandwicense)

The Hawai'i silversword, a striking and endangered plant, is a fascinating subject for plant enthusiasts. This unique species is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, specifically Maui and the Big Island of Hawai'i.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Argyroxiphium sandwicense DC.
• Kingdom: Plantae
• Taxonomic Rank: Subspecies
• Common Names: Hawai'i silversword, 'ahinahina, Mauna Kea silversword
• Synonym: Argyroxiphium macrocephalum A. Gray

Distribution and Habitat

• The silversword is native to the Hawaiian Islands, particularly the islands of Maui and Hawai'i.
• Specific locations include the slopes of Mauna Kea, Mauna Loa, and Haleakala.
• These plants thrive at high altitudes, typically above 6000 feet, in alpine shrublands and relatively young scrub vegetation.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Silverswords have a ball-shaped rosette of silvery leaves.
• They send up a tower of tiny pink flowers when they bloom.
• The Haleakala silversword can live up to 60 years.

Ecological Role

• Silverswords occupy diverse terrestrial habitats in Hawai'i, ranging from wet and dry forests to alpine shrublands.
• They play a role in soil erosion, as evidenced by studies on their biogeomorphological influence in Haleakala.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Climate change impacts, including hotter temperatures and lower rainfall, threaten the silversword's survival.
• Researchers at the University of Hawai'i are actively involved in conservation efforts, including outplanting silversword seedlings.

Further Information

• University of Hawai'i researchers are studying the silverswords.
• The Hawai'i Silversword Foundation is involved in reintroduction efforts.
• Wolfram|Alpha provides data and facts related to the silversword.
• Dave's Garden may have tips and ideas related to this plant.