‘Ulu

The introduction of breadfruit to Hawaii is very fascinating where it was brought over by the Polynesians about 500-700 years ago as part of their canoe plants to grow on the islands. Grateful for Kū's sacrifice, generations of Hawaiians have regarded 'ulu as a symbol of resilience, perseverance, and security, often revering 'ulu trees as kinolau (embodiments) of Kū. An 'ulu tree is still often planted when a child is born to ensure a lifetime of nourishment.

'Ōlelo No'eau

Lālau aku 'oe i ka 'ulu i ka wekiu, ike alo no ka 'ulu, a hala.

You reach for the breadfruit away at the top and miss the one in front of you.

‘Ōhi’a Lehua

Why is ‘Ōhi’a Lehua so important? Well it is one of the first plants to bloom on barren lands blanketed in lava, which creates the canvas for all other foliage that we as humans need to survive here in Hawai'i.

More than a million ʻōhiʻa trees on Hawaiʻi Island have become infected by one of two fungal species and have died. The disease caused by these fungal species has been named Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death; trees on other islands have also been infected. It’s among the top concerns as there is currently no cure.

So in dedication to raise awareness and supporting our local non-profits, a portion of the proceeds from the ‘Ōhi’a Lehua prints, drawn by Lacey Matsumoto, embossed onto Salty Western leather goods will be donated to protecting this tree from the Rapid ‘Ōhi’a Death.

Mahalo for your support and contributing to Hawai’i’s endemic plant survival.

Help prevent spreading Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death:

• Avoid injuring ʻōhiʻa.

• Don’t move ʻōhiʻa wood or ʻōhiʻa parts.

• Don’t transport ʻōhiʻa inter-island.

• Clean gear and tools, including shoes and clothes, before and after entering forests.

• Wash the tires and undercarriage of your vehicle to remove all soil or mud.