Nehe is a part of the sunflower family. It is very shrub-like and acts like a ground cover on most occasions. The beautiful yellow flowers were used in lei making. There are twenty endemic species found in Hawai’i, with many of them being very rare or extinct.
The distribution of nehe goes beyond the main Hawaiian islands and up into the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Some species are found throughout the entire archipelago while some are only found in Northwestern Hawaiian Islands. There are even a few species that thrive only in very specific habitats or locations.
In lei making, yellow and red colors were used to indicate divine and chiefly ranks.
Experience the vibrant tapestry of Hawaiian biodiversity with a journey through Maui Ocean Center’s Hawaiian Culture and Botanical Plant Tour.
Embark on a multi-sensory experience, today!
Now featuring an exclusive stop at The Marine Institute at Maui Ocean Center, this enhanced tour takes you deeper into the work protecting Hawaiʻi’s marine life, from coral restoration to sea turtle care.
