Lehua papa facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Lehua papa
Lehua papa tree
Scientific classification
Genus:	Metrosideros
Species:	rugosa

M. rugosa leaves showing the indented veins.

The Metrosideros rugosa, often called the lehua papa, is a unique tree that belongs to the myrtle family. This tree is found only on the island of Oʻahu in the Hawaiian Islands. When a plant or animal is found only in one specific place, we say it is endemic to that area.

Meet the Lehua Papa Tree

The lehua papa tree is a close relative of the more common ʻōhiʻa lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha). You can find the ʻōhiʻa lehua all over the Hawaiian Islands. However, the lehua papa is much rarer. It grows only in very specific places.

Where Does Lehua Papa Live?

This special tree likes to live in a narrow habitat. You can find it at the very tops of wet, windy ridges and cliffs. These places are mostly in the Koʻolau mountains on Oʻahu. It needs a lot of rain and can handle strong winds.

What Makes Lehua Papa Special?

The lehua papa has some features that help you tell it apart from its cousin, the ʻōhiʻa lehua. Its leaves are quite distinctive. On the top surface of the leaves, the veins are deeply indented. This means they look like they are pressed down into the leaf. Also, the edges of the leaves are partly rolled inwards. Some varieties of M. polymorpha also have rolled leaf edges, but the deeply indented veins are a key sign for lehua papa.

The lehua papa tree also has a unique look. It grows in a compact, tight shape. This shape is perfect for its windy home, helping it stand strong against the gusts. The flowers of the Metrosideros rugosa are a beautiful red color.