No images found for this plant ID: 4766.
Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "4766" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.
Kauai pa'iniu
Scientific Name: Astelia waialealae
Family: Liliaceae
Category: Monocot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Kauai Pa'iniu (Astelia waialealae)
The Kauai pa'iniu, scientifically known as Astelia waialealae, is a rare plant endemic to the island of Kauai, Hawaii. It is also referred to simply as pa'iniu.
Considerations for Pets
- This is a herbaceous plant.
- The leaves can be up to two feet long.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Astelia waialealae Wawra
- Common Names: Kauai pa'iniu, pa'iniu
- Taxonomic Status: Accepted
- Family: Asteliaceae
Distribution and Habitat
- The Kauai pa'iniu is found exclusively within the Alakai Swamp area of Kauai.
- It thrives in high mountain bogs.
- It is specifically found in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10b through 11.
- Mature plants are also known to grow in other islands such as Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, and Hawaii.
Morphological Characteristics
- It is a herbaceous plant, which means it lacks woody stems.
- The leaves can grow up to two feet long and are described as narrow and upward-pointing.
- Mature Pa`iniu can range in height from less than 2 feet and upwards of 6 feet.
Ecological Role
- This is a rare, endangered species.
Quirky Facts
- Historically, pa'iniu has been used in the creation of leis.
Further Information
- Additional information and resources can be found on ARKive and Encyclopedia of Life.