The dominant tree in the Hawaiian rainforests is the ohia lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha). The ohia lehua is a variable evergreen tree, that is endemic to the six largest Hawaiian islands. This species is found in a variety of habitats from the recent lava flows to the rainforests and it can also grow in dry shrub lands. Flowering occurs sporadically throughout the year. The flowers are usually red, but orange and yellow forms are also found. The flowers produce a lot of sweet nectar, which is the most important food source for the Hawaiian forest birds.

There is an interesting story behind this beautiful plant. In the Hawaiian mythology, Ohia and Lehua were young lovers. The volcano goddess Pele wanted Ohia for her husband, but Ohia loved Lehua and defied Pele’s approach. Pele became furious and transformed Ohia into a tree. Lehua begged to the goddess to change him back, but Pele ignored her. The other gods took pity on Lehua and they turned her into a flower on the Ohia tree so the two lovers could be together forever…

Last week, I hiked on the Waahila Ridge again to photograph some native birds. Unfortunately, the birds didn’t come, so I chose to take a photograph of the lehua flowers. I wanted to show their real beauty, so I decided to photograph the red flowers in backlight to emphasize their vibrant colors.

Gear: Canon EOS 7D, Canon 300mm F/4 lens, Canon 1.4x extender, Manfrotto tripod