Legumes of the Hawaiian Ranges

Abstract

The number of leguminous forage species found in pastures throughout the Hawaiian Islands is large, owing to the wide range in climatic conditions. At low elevations tropical species predominate, but at higher elevations many of the most desirable temperate zone pasture legumes are found. Despite the number of adapted species, legumes do not form an important part of most pasture swards. Nearly all of the forage legumes have been introduced, and limited distribution is due in part to sporadic planting and relatively slow natural spreading. Many attempts by ranchers to establish legumes have failed, and the conclusion has often been reached that it is impractical to maintain them in tropical pastures. This bulletin was intended to counter the dearth of information regarding pasture legumes in the tropics.