Diffusely branched liana with slender stems up to 8 m or more in length, leaves opposite. Diagnostic features of the species include the unique lianous habit and the conspicuous isodiametrically areolate-reticulate leaf venation. Flowering occurs in September to November.
This species is found only on Kaua'i, in mesic to wet forests adjacent to Waimea Canyon at about 975-1,200 m elevation. Fewer than 50 individuals are known. The sites occupied by the species receive about 110-190 cm of annual precipitation.
Last Modification: March 21, 2000
Each "thumbnail" image below is linked to a larger photograph.
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Largest known individual (now dead) branching profusely in crown of a tree. The main stem is visible at the right side of the tree trunk and is illustrated below. (photo 1983, Kumuwela Ridge, Kaua'i) |
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Main stem of largest known individual. (photo 1976, Kumuwela Ridge, Kaua'i) |
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Kumuwela Ridge, Kaua'i, after Hurricane Iniki. |
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Mohihi Rd., Kokee, Kaua'i. |
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Vegetative shoots growing up tree trunk in cultivation in yard of John Plews (photo 1991, near Kumuwela Ridge, Kaua'i) |
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Terminal portion of a shoot held by Dennis McKenna and Elisabeth Rabakonandrianina. (photo 1976, Kumuwela Ridge, Kaua'i) |
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Portion of shoot with clusters of flowering heads. (photo 1976, Kumuwela Ridge, Kaua'i) |
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Flowering heads.(photo 1976, Kumuwela Ridge, Kaua'i) |