Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site plant survey

Abstract

A checklist of all plant species located within the Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site was compiled for the dry season during May 1975, and for the wet season in March 1976. A total of 50 species from 21 Angiosperm families were recorded along with 2 ferns and 1 Basidiomycete. Of the total number of species collected, 38 were introductions, 10 were indigenous, and 5 were endemic. Among the species present are Ophioglossum concinnum, a fern proposed for rare and endangered status, and an unknown species of Atriplex, provisionally identified as A. johnstonii. Four distinct communities were recognized: a xerophytic scrub savannah, a closed kiawe forest, a halophytic scrub, and a disturbed roadside community. Recommendations are made concerning a potential fire hazard, the control of two noxious weeds, and the preservation of the rare fern.