Lobelia gaudichaudii, commonly known as Koolau Range lobelia, is a perennial herb endemic to the island of Oahu in Hawaii. It is a rare species with two subspecies: ssp. koolauensis, which is limited to five populations totaling 252 individuals, and ssp. gaudichaudii, which is also uncommon. This lobelia typically grows in wet shrublands on windy slopes and ridgelines, where it is exposed to the elements and has adapted to these challenging conditions. The plant’s tubular flowers come in a variety of colors, including red, greenish, yellowish, or white, and bloom in a manner that is particularly attractive to native bird species.

The Koolau Range lobelia is valued for its unique tubular flowers and its role in native Hawaiian ecosystems. Due to its rarity, it is not commonly used in cultivation, but when it is, it serves as a conversation piece and a living example of Hawaii’s unique flora. It requires a habitat that mimics its natural wet, windy conditions, with well-draining soil and partial to full sun exposure. As an endangered species, it faces threats from habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change. Efforts to cultivate and preserve this plant are crucial for its survival. CC BY-SA 4.0