Sage Murakami
Another inspiring essay from a Kaʻū Wildlife Scholarship applicant for 2025, Sage Murami. While Sage did not qualify for this award because he is not from / connected to Kaʻū (he is a recent Natural Resources and Environmental Management graduate student from UH Mānoa currently working on a remote Master’s program out of Texas, his essay and story were worth a share to our broader audience and we hope to collaborate with him in the future with his current studies / affiliation with the CERENE (Center for Resilient Neighborhoods) Sustainability Lab at Kapiolani Community College on Oʻahu. With that, here is his essay:
ESSAY BY SAGE MURAMI
The ʻōhiʻa lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha) is a native Hawaiian tree that plays a vital role in the islands’ ecosystems and cultural practices. It is one of the most iconic and widely distributed trees in Hawaiʻi, found in a variety of habitats, from coastal areas to high-altitude forests. The ʻōhiʻa lehua is best known for its vibrant red, orange, or yellow flowers, which resemble clusters of fireworks, and its thick, gnarled trunk that can grow up to 50 feet tall. This tree is not only a symbol of beauty but also of resilience, as it thrives in a variety of harsh conditions, including volcanic soils.
The importance of the ʻōhiʻa lehua extends beyond its aesthetic appeal. It serves as a cornerstone species in Hawaiian forests, providing habitat and food for numerous native species. Its flowers are a primary source of nectar for Hawaiian honeycreepers, such as the endangered ʻiʻiwi and ʻapapane birds. These birds, in turn, help pollinate the tree, creating a symbiotic relationship. Additionally, the tree’s leaves, bark, and wood have been used by Hawaiians for centuries in traditional medicine, carving, and building. The ʻōhiʻa lehua is so intertwined with Hawaiian culture that it is considered sacred, symbolizing love, beauty, and life. Its significance is evident in ancient Hawaiian chants and stories, and its preservation is crucial to maintaining the spiritual and cultural integrity of Hawaiʻi.
Unfortunately, the ʻōhiʻa lehua has been severely threatened in recent years by a fungal disease called Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (ROD), which has decimated vast swaths of ʻōhiʻa forests across Hawaiʻi. This disease is caused by two different fungal pathogens, Ceratocystis species, and has led to the death of millions of ʻōhiʻa trees. As a result, not only are ecosystems suffering, but also the birds and insects that depend on these trees for survival. The threat to the ʻōhiʻa lehua underscores the urgency of protecting Hawaiʻi’s native species and ecosystems.
‘Ōhi‘a lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha). PC to DLNR.
‘Ōhi‘a Lehua painting by Joan Yoshioka.
To help protect the ʻōhiʻa lehua and other endangered wildlife, individuals can take several steps. First, it is crucial to be aware of the threats facing native species and to support efforts to combat invasive species, diseases, and habitat destruction. Volunteering with local conservation organizations, participating in tree planting events, and supporting research initiatives aimed at understanding and combating Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death are vital ways to contribute. Additionally, advocating for the preservation of Hawaiian forests through policy changes and increased funding for environmental protection is an effective method for ensuring long-term sustainability.
In Hawaiʻi, the protection of native species like the ʻōhiʻa lehua is not just about conservation; it is about preserving a way of life. The health of the land directly influences the health of the people, as Hawaiians view their environment as an interconnected system. The ʻōhiʻa lehua, as both a natural and cultural symbol, represents the deep bond between people and place, reminding everyone of the importance of maintaining this delicate balance for future generations.
Mahalo Sage for your submission and for your willingness to share your essay with our wild community and online audience :)
Learn more about Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death (ROD) HERE, and about saving ʻōhiʻa seeds through the Laukahi Network (HWF is part of this initiative through the Hawaiʻi Island Seed Bank) HERE.
See more amazing native flora art by Joan Yoshioka on her Instagram channel @joanyoshioka
