Plants & animals

About our environment

We steward 94 acres of land located in the coastal lowland mesic forests along the enchanting ‘Red Road’ of Puna. The traditional name of our land area, known as an ahupua’a, is Ke’eke’e.

You can find unique native Hawaiian species, tropical fruit trees, fragrant flowers, lush forests and meandering walking paths that lead to stunning ocean cliffs along our coast. Plan on seeing lots of small animals like geckos, birds, frogs, and insects at our center as well. Read below for more information on specific plant and animal species you may encounter during a visit with us.

Why is environmental education important?

Developing Stewardship

In Hawai'i there is a concept of kuleana, which means both responsibility and privilege. Through this unique cultural lens, we can learn how to act responsibly towards the natural world we benefit from.

Protecting our Planet

When we learn the names of the plants and animals that share our environment, they become familiar friends. Once we know them as friends, we can seek to preserve the natural world they live in and in which we can all thrive together.

Community Resilience

When we join together we create a stronger network of passionate individuals that are ready to address the complexities of planetary concerns that affect each of us and the places we love.

Plants on our property

"Psydrax odorata (5187891165)" by David Eickhoff is licensed under CC 2.0.

Alahe’e (Psydrax odorata)

A native Hawaiian tree species with glossy leaves and clusters of small fragrant white flowers which are used to make lei. Traditionally tools were also made from the wood including spears, nets, fish hooks, and ʻōʻō.

"Persea americana jpg" by M. Clara Salviano is licensed under CC 3.0.

Avocado (Persea americana)

An evergreen tree native to the Americas that has made its way to Hawai'i in abundance. The fruits have a buttery light green flesh once cut open and an oil can be produced from its seeds.

"Zingiber zerumbet - Shampoo Ginger at Peravoor" by Vinayaraj is licensed under CC 4.0.

'Awapuhi (Zingiber zerumbet)

A tropical ginger variety known by its Hawaiian name and also as 'Shampoo Ginger' due to its traditional use as an aromatic shampoo made from the juices of its red flower cones.

"Bamboo Richelieu" by Manfred Heyde is licensed under CC 3.0.

Bamboo (Bambusoideae subfamily)

Bamboo is considered one of the fastest growing plants in the world. The light yet durable hollow stems are used for building, musical instruments, carrying water, fishing poles, food, fiber and more.

"Banana 6" by Sri2161k is licensed under CC 4.0.

Banana (Musa species)

An immense amount of banana varieties, for both eating the fruit and cooking, are grown on the islands. Brought here by early Polynesians as a canoe plant, the Hawaiian name is Mai'a.

"Banyan Tree. Kawela Bay Beach Park, Kahuku (503550) (19473913514)" by Robert Linsdell is licensed under CC 2.0.

Banyan (Ficus benghalensis)

A distinctive tree with aerial roots that descend from branches and become new trunks. With this growth pattern, these trees can grow to an impressive size.

"Artocarpus altilis (Moraceae)" by Filo gèn' is licensed under CC 4.0.

Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis)

Known as 'Ulu in Hawai'i, this plant brought by early Polynesians serves as a staple food in many Pacific communities and can be edible when ripe (akin to a sweet custard) or unripe (similar to a potato).

"Starr-090623-1605-Cnidoscolus aconitifolius-flowers and leaves-Waianapanapa-Maui (24336362194)" by Forest and Kim Starr is licensed under CC 3.0.

Chaya (Cnidoscolus aconitifolius)

This perennial green shrub is also called tree spinach in some countries as the nutritious leaves, high in calcium and iron, bear a culinary similarity to spinach.

"Lemon Tree 10 2017-11-21" by FASTILY is licensed under CC 4.0.

Citrus (Citrus species)

Varieties of citrus trees such as lemons, limes, tangerines and oranges grow on our property. They are known for their fresh flavors and aroma, as well as being a good source of vitamin C.

"Coconut tree, Ubud, Bali, 20220822 1455 0153" by Jakub Hałun is licensed under CC 4.0.

Coconut (Cocos nucifera)

This classic tropical tree is found throughout the world and has become a symbol of island lifestyles. Known as Niu in Hawaiian, it is extremely versatile and produces fruits, fiber, oil, thatch roofing and more.

"Phymatosorus scolopendria 7zz" by David J. Stang is licensed under CC 4.0.

Common Laua‘e Fern (Microsorum scolopendria)

Laua‘e is the name used for both the rare endemic Hawaiian fern (Microsorum spectrum) and the Australian fern which you're likely to see (Microsorum scolopendria).

"Starr-090623-1668-Pandanus tectorius-leaves-Hana-Maui (24671611260)" by Forest and Kim Starr is licensed under CC 3.0.

Hala (Pandanus tectorius)

This unmistakable tree with long serrated leaves and aerial roots grows in coastal areas throughout the Pacific. The leaves are used for weaving baskets, mats, and jewelry, as well as the sails for ships of ancient Polynesian voyagers.

"Starr-120606-7077-Capsicum annuum-fruit hot chili peppers-Laulima Farm Kipahulu-Maui (24777086259)" by Forest and Kim Starr is licensed under CC 3.0.

Hawaiian Chili Pepper (Capsicum frutescens)

Known as Nīoi in Hawaiian, these small spicy red peppers pack a punch and are a foundational ingredient in the popular chili pepper water condiment.

"Starr-100121-1585-Hibiscus rosa sinensis-yellow flower-Wailuku-Maui (24377339474)" by Forest and Kim Starr is licensed under CC 3.0.

HIBISCUS (HIBISCUS SPECIES)

This genus has hundreds of flowering species, with only seven being native to Hawai'i. These ornamental flowers come in a variety of bold colors. The yellow hibiscus is the Hawai'i State Flower.

"Starr 061106-1468 Calophyllum inophyllum" by Forest & Kim Starr is licensed under CC 3.0.

KAMANI (Calophyllum inophyllum)

These majestic trees create the tree tunnel outside our center's road entrance. Brought to the island by early Polynesians, the hardwood was used to make canoes and its flowers were used for lei.

"Star gooseberry (Sauropus androgynus) (30620102685)" by Rison Thumboor is licensed under CC 2.0.

KATUK (Sauropus androgynus)

These nutritionally dense leaves grow on a perennial green shrub that can be harvested throughout the year in tropical climates. With a neutral and almost sweet yet nutty flavor, the leaves and small fruits can be used in almost any dish.

"Starr 060703-8347 Aleurites moluccana" by Forest & Kim Starr is licensed under CC 3.0.

Kukui (Aleurites moluccanus)

This is the Hawai'i State Tree and is also known as the Candlenut Tree. The nuts produce an oil used for illumination, varnish and soap, and the wood was also traditionally used to build wa'a (canoes).

"Diospyros sandwicensis (5816432596)" by David Eickhoff is licensed under CC 2.0.

Lama (Diospyros sandwicensis)

An endemic native Hawaiian tree renowned for its hard wood, also known as Hawaiian ebony. It was traditionally used to build houses, temples and fish traps, as well as decorate hula altars.

"Mango tree (22708493)" by Avinashsatamraju is licensed under CC 4.0.

Mango (Mangifera indica)

A stone fruit tree appreciated throughout the tropics with hundreds of cultivars that vary the shape, color, size, and taste of the fruits. Used in many cuisines, the fruits can be used to make juices, desserts, pickles and more.

"Starr-090601-8634-Pipturus albidus-leaves-Ulupalakua greenhouse-Maui (24842781622)" by Forest and Kim Starr is licensed under CC 3.0.

Māmaki (Pipturus albidus)

The leaves of this native endemic plant are made into a delicious medicinal tea. It is also the main habitat for the Hawai'i State Butterfly, the Kamehameha butterfly or Pulelehua.

"Scaevola taccada with flower buds" by Nadiatalent is licensed under CC 4.0.

Naupaka Kahakai (Scaevola taccada)

A coastal plant indigenous to Hawai'i with rounded leaves and white 'half flowers' of five petals. The flower's unique appearance is explained by a Hawaiian traditional legend of separated lovers.

"Morinda citrifolia, fruits" by Filo gèn' is licensed under CC 4.0.

Noni (Morinda citrifolia)

A bush with a distinctive yellow fruit that is known for both its pungent scent and taste. It is often used for medicinal purposes, with the juice from its fruits serving as a tonic and the leaves used for healing skin ailments.

"Metrosideros polymorpha, Big Island, Hawaii" by Frank Schulenburg is licensed under CC 3.0.

ʻŌhiʻa Lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha)

A native endemic tree with brilliant red flowers that is mentioned in numerous moʻolelo (legends), mele (songs) and oli (chants) involving Pele. The lehua blossom represents the island of Hawai'i.

"Orchid 4036" by Ronincmc is licensed under CC 4.0.

Orchids (Orchidaceae family)

This family has countless unique and exquisite flowers in an array of shapes, colors and even scents. Considered one of the most expensive spices, vanilla beans are derived from an orchid.

"Psidium cattleyanum Gruszlina 2022-10-11 02" by Agnieszka Kwiecień is licensed under CC 4.0.

Strawberry Guava (Psidium cattleyanum)

This small fruiting tree is common throughout our island and the wood is smooth and strong. It is unfortunately highly invasive to our ecosystem, and has developed the local name of waiawī.

"Sugarcane 2" by மலர்விழி.சி is licensed under CC 4.0.

Sugar Cane (Saccharum officinarum)

Known as Kō in Hawaiian, this sweet plant was brought by early Polynesian voyagers. It has influenced many places during its centuries of sugar production, including Hawai'i.

"Ipomoea batatas" by en:User:Pollinator is licensed under CC 3.0.

Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas)

Known as ‘Uala in Hawaiian, this root vegetable is grown on our property as both the traditional variety brought by early Polynesians and the stunning purple Okinawan variety.

"Phytophthora leaf blight of taro (Colocasia esculenta) (14813068962)" by Scot Nelson is licensed under CC 0.

Taro (Colocasia esculenta)

A staple food known as Kalo in Hawaiian, this root vegetable with edible leaves is used in preparing dishes like laulau. It has immense cultural significance and meaning to the Hawaiian people.

"Ti plant" by Jackie Frost is licensed under CC 0.

Ti (Cordyline fruticosa)

Known as Kī or Lāʻī in Hawaiian, this plant is held in high regard and its leaves are used in a variety of cultural practices such as making lei, and ceremonial settings to bring protection and good fortune.

"Cananga odorata 03" by Prenn is licensed under CC 3.0.

Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)

A tree with yellow flowers with long petals that are remarkably fragrant. Venerated for their scent, these flowers are used to make essential oils and perfumes across the globe.

Creatures around our campus

"Japanese white-eye at Tennōji Park in Osaka, January 2016 II" by Laitche is licensed under CC 4.0.

Birds (Various species)

The diversity of birds in our area is striking and varieties you may see (or hear) on our campus include native species like the Hawaiian Hawk and introduced species like Northern Cardinals, Warbling White-eyes, and Saffron Finches.

"Monarch butterflies on Milkweed" by Angel LeMaster is licensed under CC 0.

Butterflies (Various species)

The endemic Kamehameha butterfly (Vanessa tameamea) is the Hawai'i State Butterfly though more common butterflies you'll see relaxing in our gardens include the Monarch and Gulf fritillary.

"Centipede" by Eric Guinther is licensed under CC 3.0.

Centipede (Scolopendra subspinipes)

Occasionally the nocturnal red or blue centipede varieties are spotted which can give a painful sting. Fortunately they don't like human company either and are likely to scurry away.

"Coqui" by Javyer is licensed under CC 3.0.

Coquí Frog (Eleutherodactylus coqui)

A species of small tree frog the size of a penny native to Puerto Rico. They have a distinct mating call made from dusk until dawn that sounds like their name and adds to our jungle's nighttime symphony.

"Gecko on Hala" by Rebekah Cryderman is licensed under CC 0.

Gold Dust Day Gecko (Phelsuma laticauda)

Called mo‘o (lizards) in Hawaiian, these creatures are harmless and appear in legends as guardians or shapeshifters. This particular gecko is a colorful invasive species from Madagascar and eats insects, fruit, pollen and nectar.

"Orange and black beetle (11879783994)" by John Tann is licensed under CC 2.0.

False Blister Beetle (Ananca bicolor)

A seasonal flying insect with a dark body that can cause a blister when squished on skin. They are attracted to light, so we recommend turning off lights when you are not in your room.

"Wild boar at Alladale" by Pieter-Paul G is licensed under CC 4.0.

Feral Pig (Sus scrofa)

Known as pua'a in Hawaiian, pigs were brought by early Polynesians. They search for insects and vegetation by tilling the soil, often at night. We strongly advise against trying to touch or feed them, no matter how cute they may appear.

"Great frigatebird Lady Elliot Island, Queensland" by Tom Tarrant is licensed under CC 3.0.

Great Frigatebird (Fregata minor)

A large indigenous seabird known as ʻIwa in Hawaiian, they can fly for very long distances and tend to nest in large colonies. Their diets consist of flying fish, squid and the prey taken from other seabirds.

"Io on takeoff" by Kanalu Chock is licensed under CC 2.0.

Hawaiian Hawk (Buteo solitarius)

An endangered native hawk known as ‘Io in Hawaiian. Once found across the islands, today it is only found on Hawai'i island. Highly respected and associated with royalty, this is how ʻIolani Palace in Honolulu received its name.

"Hawksbill sea turtle - NOAA" by NOAA is licensed under CC 0.

Hawaiian Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata)

Hawaiian Hawksbill Turtles are known as 'Eā in Hawaiian, and are a beloved native species threatened by extinction. You can find them swimming in the surf across the road from our center at The Point.

"Green Sea Turtle (chelonia mydas) basking on Punalu'u Beach" by Kyle Porter is licensed under CC 4.0.

Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas)

Known as Honu in Hawaiian, these are treasured native turtles threatened by extinction. They love lounging in the sun on beaches so please respect and protect them by keeping your distance.

"Starr 090112-0858 Boerhavia sp." by Forest & Kim Starr is licensed under CC 3.0.

Hawaiian Short-Eared Owl (Asio flammeus sandwichensis)

Known as Pueo in Hawaiian, these native owls are unlike most owls as they are active during the day. They have stunning yellow eyes, nest on the ground, and are celebrated symbols of protection.

"Megaptera novaeangliae (15194165793)" by Christopher Michel is licensed under CC 2.0.

Humpback Whale (Megaptera novaeangliae)

Known as Koholā in Hawaiian, each year in the winter months these gentle giants of up to 52 feet in length migrate over 3000 miles from arctic waters to tropical Hawai'i to breed, give birth and nurse their young.

"Starr-141027-5148-Medinilla cumingii-flowers stalk with little fire ants-Nahiku-Maui (25221914546)" by Forest and Kim Starr is licensed under CC 3.0.

Little Fire Ant (WASMANNIA AUROPUNCTATA)

Several kinds of ants may show up if you leave food unattended. While most ants are harmless or have a minor bite, these slow moving, rust-colored invasive fire ants are tiny but pack a painful sting.

"Herpestes edwardsii at Hyderaba" by J.M.Garg is licensed under CC 3.0.

MONGOOSE (HERPESTES JAVANICUS)

An invasive species of small mammals similar to a weasel that are active during the day. They have unfortunately been detrimental to the local population of ground nesting birds and endangered sea turtles.

"Branta sandvicensis LC399" by Jörg Hempel is licensed under CC 3.0.

Nēnē (Branta sandvicensis)

The native and endemic Hawaiian Goose is known as Nēnē in Hawaiian, and holds the title of the State Bird of Hawai'i. They can adapt to various environments, eat mostly leaves, grasses, seeds and fruits, and pairs mate for life.

"Argiope appensa Kauai 1131" by Paul Harrison is licensed under CC 4.0.

Spiders (various species)

Few spiders in Hawai'i cause any threat beyond a non-venomous bite. You may spot the dramatic X shape web of the harmless Hawaiian Garden Spider. The only venomous spider in our area is the very rare brown recluse.

"HIHWNMS - spinner dolphin (33304904555)" by National Marine Sanctuaries is licensed under CC 0.

Spinner Dolphin (Stenella longirostris)

Often described as oceanic acrobats and known as Naiʻa in Hawaiian, these dolphins leap, flip and spin through the air as a means of communication in addition to echolocation.

Looking for a game to practice plant identification?

Download our free Hawai'i Island plant bingo packet

This free activity offers a fun way to identify plants that are common in Hawai’i, with an emphasis on native and Polynesian-introduced canoe species. The packet includes instructions, plant species information, and 10 different bingo cards. This packet can be printed from home and played anywhere on Hawai’i island.

Inspired to learn more about protecting wildlife?

You can contribute to the beauty and health of our ecosystem as a visitor

Explore the links below to learn more about the best practices to engage with nature and the communities in Hawai’i as a guest.

Curious about getting your hands dirty?

Discover our Agricultural Programming

Follow the link below to view Kalani’s garden programs and community projects that mālama the ʻāina (care for, serve and honor the land). We care for the land and in turn it cares for us!