'aku
Cyanea angustifolia Hillebr.
Cyanea angustifolia is a shrub in the Campanulaceae family, endemic to Hawaii. It is known locally as 'aku and is part of the Cyanea genus, referred to as hāhā in the Hawaiian language. The plant was historically used as a food source during periods of scarcity. It is distinguished by its specialized flower morphology and is typically found in high-elevation, wet habitats.
Description
Cyanea angustifolia, described by Hillebr. in 1888, is a member of the bellflower family (Campanulaceae) and is native to the Hawaiian Islands. It is one of several species in the Cyanea genus, which is collectively called hāhā in Hawaiian. The species is adapted to moist, high-altitude environments and exhibits unique floral structures. Historically, it was consumed by Native Hawaiians during times of food shortage. Its narrow leaves and specific ecological preferences contribute to its distinct identity within the genus.
Other common names
'aku
Distribution
Hawaii
Synonyms
Lobelia angustifoliaCyanea angustifolia var. racemosaDelissea acuminata var. angustifoliaDelissea angustifoliaDelissea angustifolia var. racemosaDelissea honolulensis