Favoritos de ejliaw

Single vine (the original (type) specimen) growing on Kunzea triregensis. At the time this observation was made the vine was being shaded out and was in danger of dying out. Our (Department of Conservation) 1991 field work involved careful pruning of the canopy to let in more light and tying up (on to cables) of the vines that were found trailing in the dense vegetation. As a result of these measures the vine flowered for the first time (since it was discovered in 1946) in 1995. However, seed set in the wild is still not happening, probably because the flowers are destroyed by kakariki (Cyanoramphus novaezelandiae novaezelandiae)

One of the world's most extraordinary plants survive only on the flanks of Mauna Loa between 5,000 to 8,000 feet (1,500 to 2,500 m). 'Āhinahina are named for the remarkable shine of soft, silver hairs that cover and protect their sword-like leaves. Although they share the same ancestor, Mauna Loa silverswords are distinct from the other species found on Mauna Kea and Haleakalā. Mauna Loa silverswords generally grow fewer "petals" in their flowerheads and their thinner leaves are less hairy. Also remarkable is their life history. It is only once in their lives and only after 10 to 30 years that 'āhinahina send up a spectacular stalk of fragrant flowers as tall as 9 feet (3 meters). Within weeks it goes to seed and its life is concluded—the entire plant dies.