When the Polynesians arrived in Hawaii, their canoes carried the plants and animals they needed to sustain themselves in their new environment. Some of these indigenous plants are now extinct or endangered, but many can still be found growing in the wild or flourishing in botanical and commercial gardens. Although they may not be as showy as the tropical exotics that were imported to the islands later, it is interesting to contemplate the evolution of a native seed's survival.
A collection of native plants can be found at the Kula Botanical Gardens, located at the 3,300-foot elevation on Hwy. 377 (Kekaulike Ave.), just a mile from the junction of Hwy. 377 and Hwy 37. Kula Botanical Gardens features orchids, proteas, bromeliads, poisonous plants and Hawaiian native fauna, some of which are on the endangered list. The gardens are open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and there is a small admission charge.
While you're at it, take a stroll through Enchanting Floral Gardens, an 8-acre bouquet of exotic flowers that can be found across from mile marker 10 on Highway 37. This garden is planted with 1,500 species of tropical and semi-tropical flowers and plants. See proteas, orchids, hibiscus, jade vines and a collection of varieties found only in these gardens. The gardens are located on the route to Haleakala Crater in picturesque upcountry Maui. Open daily from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
