Rapid Ohia Death

Pest/Disease
Critical Threat
Affects: Ohia Lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha) - the most important native forest tree in Hawaii
rapid ohia death
Photo: Joy Viola / Northeastern University (CC-BY-3.0-US (Bugwood))

Identification & Biology

Two Ceratocystis fungi that kill ohia trees by clogging their vascular system. Trees can die within weeks. Ohia forms 80% of Hawaii's native forest canopy - its loss would be catastrophic for the ecosystem.

Current Status

Established on Hawaii Island. Detected on Kauai, Oahu, Maui. Spreading.

States affected:

Hawaii

What Homeowners Should Do

Do not wound ohia trees. Clean tools between trees. Do not move ohia wood between islands. Report browning ohia to Hawaii Dept of Agriculture.

Identification Photos

Related Threats

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