Scientific Name: Sesbania tomentosa
Endemic – Endangered Species
Description: The many forms of ohai are all stunning in their own way. Most have evolved to have extremely soft, silvery-pubescent (soft with short hairs), pinnate leaves that help reflect sunlight and retain moisture in its harsh environment. This form, however, has darker green leaves that appear to be more waxy, with a little golden tomentose (the small hair-like covering from which the plant derives its species name).
The plant grows close to the ground, in a form similar to that of the Moomomi form from Molokai. The stem-tip leaves are highly aromatic when in full sun, and if enough are planted, you can smell them from quite a distance. Striking pea flowers form as clusters under the leaves, with each flower 1 to 2 inches long. The flower’s yellow color is what sets it apart from other ohai, which range from red to pink and orange. But remember, it’s the leaf clusters at the stem tips that smell good, not the flowers.
Distribution: All forms of this species are considered endangered, primarily because their natural habitat has been destroyed either by development, grazing mammals, lack of pollinators or destruction from off-road vehicles.
Cultural Uses: The beautiful flowers are used in leis and can be strung in the Maunaloa style.
Landscape Uses and Care: These small trees look great in landscapes and can be planted either as a specimen or in rows. Being such a small tree, its flowers are usually at eye level, which make viewing easy. Plant the tree in full sun and in soil that easily dries out; it is very sensitive to overwatering, which causes the leaves to turn yellow, wilt and fall off. Also, look out for shiny black stink bugs that might be on the plant — they look like black-and-gold ladybugs, but trust me they are not — no lady would ever dish out a smell like that. They don’t really harm the plant, but you can get rid of them by shooting the plant with water or by spraying it with a mild pesticide.
Ohai (Moloka'i tree form)