'Ahinahina
The Hawaiian Silversword – known by its Hawaiian name 'ahinahina - is an exceptionally rare and endangered plant unique to Haleakala on Maui and Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on the Big Island of Hawaii. Because it grows at altitudes of between 5,000 and 10,000 feet (altitudes vary by island) it has thoroughly adapted to the harsh environment of its home. Its scientific name is Argyroxiphium sandwicense and it is characterized by very dense rosettes of spiky leaves that radiate out from its base. These leaves are a silvery light green color and often appear almost metallic. The plants live up to 50 years but bloom only once and die.
