Cyanea maritae (Haha): A Critically Endangered Hawaiian Treasure Worth Protecting
Meet one of Hawaii’s rarest native plants – Cyanea maritae, known locally as haha. This stunning member of the bellflower family represents both the incredible beauty and heartbreaking fragility of Hawaii’s unique flora. While you might not find this plant at your local nursery, understanding its story helps us appreciate the importance of native plant conservation.
A Plant on the Brink
Before we dive into growing tips, there’s something crucial you need to know: Cyanea maritae is critically endangered. With a Global Conservation Status of S1 and listed as Endangered in the United States, this species typically has only 5 or fewer occurrences in the wild, with fewer than 1,000 individual plants remaining. This makes it one of Hawaii’s most imperiled native species.
Important: If you’re considering growing this plant, only obtain it through responsible sources involved in conservation efforts, such as botanical gardens or certified conservation nurseries.
Where Does Haha Call Home?
Cyanea maritae is endemic to Hawaii, meaning it exists nowhere else on Earth naturally. This remarkable plant grows exclusively in the Hawaiian Islands, making it a true treasure of Pacific island biodiversity.
What Makes This Plant Special?
Despite being a perennial that can grow as a multi-stemmed woody shrub reaching 13-16 feet in height, Cyanea maritae has an almost otherworldly appearance that makes it instantly recognizable:
- Large, dramatic leaves that create bold architectural interest
- Striking tubular flowers that evolved specifically for Hawaii’s native bird pollinators
- Unique growth habit with multiple stems arising from near the ground
- Impressive height potential under ideal conditions
Growing Conditions: Not for Beginners
If you’re fortunate enough to obtain Cyanea maritae through conservation channels, be prepared for a gardening challenge. This plant has very specific needs:
- Climate: USDA hardiness zones 10-12 only (tropical conditions required)
- Light: Partial shade to filtered sunlight
- Soil: Moist, well-draining soil with high organic content
- Humidity: High humidity levels essential
- Protection: Shelter from strong winds due to top-heavy growth
Garden Role and Design Considerations
In the right tropical garden setting, Cyanea maritae serves as an exceptional:
- Specimen plant for dramatic focal points
- Conservation garden centerpiece
- Educational plant for native Hawaiian gardening
- Tropical accent in protected, humid microclimates
The Conservation Connection
Growing Cyanea maritae isn’t just about having an unusual plant – it’s about participating in conservation efforts. The original pollinators for this species, Hawaiian honeycreepers, are themselves critically endangered or extinct, making the plant’s survival even more precarious in the wild.
Should You Grow Haha?
Honestly? Most gardeners shouldn’t attempt Cyanea maritae. Here’s why:
- Extremely difficult growing requirements
- Limited to tropical climates only
- Requires responsibly sourced plants (not commercially available)
- Needs experienced care and conservation commitment
However, if you’re an experienced tropical gardener committed to native Hawaiian plant conservation, live in zones 10-12, and can source plants responsibly, this species offers an unparalleled opportunity to help preserve one of Hawaii’s most endangered native plants.
Alternatives for Most Gardeners
For gardeners inspired by Cyanea maritae but unable to grow it, consider other native plants from your region that offer similar conservation benefits and dramatic tropical aesthetics. Supporting any native plant conservation helps preserve the biodiversity that makes species like haha so special.
Remember: sometimes the best way to appreciate a rare plant is to support the organizations working to save it in its native habitat, rather than attempting to grow it ourselves.
