Hibiscus Brackenridgei

H. Brackenridgei is commonly known as the Hawaiian Hibiscus. Hibiscus brackenridgei (ma‘o hau hele) is a tall shrub with bright yellow flowers, closely related to the widespread H. divaricatus. Two subspecies are recognized: H. b. brackenridgei, a sprawling shrub to an erect tree found on Moloka‘i, Lana‘i, Maui, and Hawai‘i; and H. b. mokuleianus, a tree from dry habitats on Kaua‘i and Wai‘anae mountain on O‘ahu. This species is listed as an endangered species by the USFWS. The yellow flower of this species is the official state flower of Hawai‘i, and although endangered in its natural habitats, has become a moderately popular ornamental in Hawaiian yards.