The ko'oloa'ula, Abutilon menziesii, is in the top tier of my favorite native Hawaiian flowers. Even without blossoms, the enduring beauty of this plant is anchored by the visually stunning, heart-shaped, silky, serrated, silver-green leaves.

Probably less than 475 of these federally listed endangered plants are in the wild in the remnant dry forests of Maui, Lana'i, Hawai'i and one isolated population at 'Ewa, on O'ahu. Habitat has been reduced by commercial, residential and agricultural development, weeds, fire, introduced animals and diseases. This threatened plant is a relative of hibiscus, 'ilima and ma'o; all in the Malvaceae family. Ko'oloa'ula is sometimes referred to as red 'ilima.

On O'ahu, The state Department of Land and Natural Resources has preserved the genetic background of the 'Ewa ko'oloa'ula by propagating more than 600 plants grown from cuttings, and more than 200 plants grown from seeds. About 140 of these ko'oloa'ula were planted at the Koko Crater Botanical Garden. This managed collection furnished plants for three new populations on O'ahu. At Ka'ena Point, 142 plants were situated in a three-acre site, with some reproduction already documented. About 70 plants have found a home at the Honouliuli Unit of the Pearl Harbor National Wildlife Refuge. Diamond Head State Park is the third beneficiary for the outplanting of ko'oloa'ula.

Ko'oloa'ula is a spreading shrub. Branches have dense hairs, with a velvety feel. The leaves, as described above, flutter their hula in the wind. The single flowers are pink to burgundy, with a yellow staminal column and dangle like bells from the leaf axils. The hard seed capsules are light brown and fuzzy, with about 18 to 24 small dark brown seeds, about 3/8 of an inch long. The roots have nitrogen-fixing capability, enabling plants to flourish in nutrient-depleted soils.

Carpenter bees and honey bees are the observed pollinators. Research continues on issues regarding propagation, genetics, seed banking and physiological concerns.

Fortunately, ko'oloa'ula is easy to grow.

Soak the seeds in tap water for 12 to 24 hours. Discard floating seeds after the soaking period. Sow into a mix of three parts perlite to one part potting mix, and cover with about a quarter of an inch of additional mix. Germination times will vary from two weeks to three to five months for all viable seeds. After four to six true leaves unfurl, transplant to two-inch or three-inch pots. Incorporate well-draining (like cinder) mix. Position seedlings in the shade and repot again with new mix when plants are twice as tall as the pots they are in. Gradually move into sunlight to acclimate them for outplanting. Select a location with partial to full sun, sheltered from strong winds. Again, use well-draining soil and amend as recommended. Foliar-feed lightly or fertilize every three to six months with 8-8-8 NPK.

Ko'oloa'ula, being drought-tolerant, thrives with little water. Overwatering will result in larger, floppy leaves with fewer flowers. The plant tolerates pruning to shape, and new growth sprouts rapidly.

Chinese rose beetles have discovered ko'oloa'ula (look for round or zigzag holes in the center of leaves). Treat with systemic insecticide as needed. Planting near a street light or other night lighting helps repel beetles. Be vigilant for slugs and bait appropriately. Red spider mites or whiteflies on the undersides of leaves are controlled with horticultural oil and/or systemic insecticide.

Ko'oloa'ula is extremely versatile for our gardens. I have seen tree-like growth and trimmed shrubs. It's a fantastic specimen, and also delivers alluring appeal as a hedge. Even in a large pot, in a sunny place, flowers will emerge.

Speaking of flowers, there is no more exquisitely, exotically, gorgeous lei than one made from the ethereal ko'oloa'ula flowers. Ho'okihi ka mana'o i ke ko'oloa'ula, he pua maka 'alohilohi. (Thoughts turn to the ko'oloa'ula blossoms, beckoning like sparkling eyes.)

Ko'oloa'ula is waiting to catch your eye.