PLANT COMMUNITIES
FOR STREAM & RIPARIAN CORRIDORS
This page is dedicated to the diverse plant communities that adorn the landscapes of Haleleʻa, focusing particularly on the flora that thrives in stream and riparian corridors. Understanding these plant communities is essential for the stewardship and restoration of our ahupuaʻa.
Understanding Plant Types
When planning a restoration project, understanding the distinction between native, canoe, and invasive plant species is crucial for maintaining ecological balance.
Native Species
These plants are indigenous to Hawaii and are crucial for maintaining ecological integrity. The Hawaii Rare Plant Restoration Group emphasizes collaboration and provides resources for the preservation of native plants and their habitats (Hawaii Rare Plant Restoration Group).
Canoe Plants
Brought by Polynesian voyagers, these species have been part of Hawaiian culture and ecosystems for centuries, providing food, medicine, and materials.
Invasive Species
Non-native plants that disrupt local ecosystems. Effective management requires community effort and understanding of the ecological impact (Niemiec et al., 2017).
Plant Selection Guide
When choosing plants for your restoration project, consider the following:
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Light Requirements: Understand the amount of sunlight your restoration site receives and select plants that will thrive under those conditions.
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Water Requirements: Consider the moisture levels of your site and choose plants with compatible water needs.
Below is a list of plants plants along with their light and water requirements created through literature searches and interviews. Plants are suggestions and should be selected for applicability to site climate.
TREES, UPPER CANOPY
LOWER UNDERSTORY
BANK STABILIZERS UNDERSTORY
SHRUB MID-CANOPY STORY
Important Plants Used for Waipā Stream Restoration Project
Kukui: (Aleurites moluccana)
Vetiver: (Chrysopogon zizanioides)
Hala: (Pandanus tectorius)
Ahuʽawa: (Mariscus javanicus)
Loulu: (Pritchardia sp.)
Māmaki: (Pipterus albidus)
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Kokiʽo ʽUlaʽula: (Hibiscus kokio)
Additional Resources
Websites
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Web Soil Survey - A comprehensive resource for understanding soil types and characteristics in your area.
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Rainfall in Hawaiʻi - Provides detailed information on rainfall patterns across the Hawaiian Islands, which is essential for selecting plants suited to your area's moisture conditions.
Literature
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Crago, L. M., James, S. A., & Puttock, C. F. (2009). Riparian Plant Restoration. Hawaii Biological Survey.
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Niemiec, Ardoin, N. M., Wharton, C. B., & Brewer, F. K. (2017). Civic and natural place attachment as correlates of resident invasive species control behavior in Hawaii. Biological Conservation, 209, 415–422.