Hello Friends and Family,

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Maui: Kula Botanical Garden, Part 2

Resuming our tour of the Kula Botanical Gardens, we encounter a small shaded plot planted with various varieties of Fuchsia. Most members of this genus are native to South and Central America but I am familiar with them from my days living in Rio Del Mar just south of Santa Cruz, CA. The mild climate of that area was perfect for Fuchsia — a fact that reminds us of how mild the climate is in the Upcountry area of Maui.



Yet in the same area, one discovers an Aloe plant that would be at home in my current residence in Arizona.


Next up is a Tulip Tree. Of course they are not related to Tulips but to Magnolias.


Next I spotted a small clearing with an old basin. There was no sign describing its historical use — so we are left to speculate. Was it a cooking vessel, wash tube or simply a watering vat for cattle? Who knows?


Ah, here is a familiar sight — a Bird of Paradise flower. Did you know that the flower's name is due to the supposed resemblance to the birds from New Guinea which really are birds-of-paradise.


This is an unusual flower — Kahili Ginger, which derives its name from the kahili of ancient times which were feathered standards used to represent the Hawai`ian royalty. The shape of the flower head resembles a feather kahili — thus the name. Curiously, the plant is considered an invasive species and thus a "weed of concern" in Hawai`i.


Next up is what appears to be a variety of orchid. Since there are more than 20,000 accepted species of orchid, I hope you will forgive me for not knowing what variety it is. Of course, one of my knowledgeable readers may be able to help me out here.


The next few photos are one of my favorite flowers — pincushion protea.


It should obvious how they got their name.


And they come in a range of shapes and colors. Like I say, I love 'em.


Last, but definitely not least, is a magnificent Pink Ice Protea.

To be continued...

 

Life is good.

Aloha,
B. David

P. S., All photos and text © B. David Cathell Photography, Inc. — www.bdavidcathell.com