'Ihi'ihilauakea Crater

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'Ihi'ihilauakea Crater - February 3, 2018

Earlier in the week I was going through Nate Yuen's blog Hawaiian Forest and stumbled upon an entry about a rare fern located in 'ihi'ihilauakea crater. Ironically, this fern is called 'ihi'ihilauakea, named after the crater. It resembles a four leaf clover, hence the nickname Hawaiian Four Leaf Clover. 

Joining the hike today was Daniel, David, Erik, Malia, and Michelle. We parked at Koko Crater Park and walked our way to Haunama Bay.

The vog was bad today and we suffered going up and down the Kokohead ridge. 

It only took us 45 minutes to get to the crater. There, we went searching. I was fanatical and went all out. About 10 minutes passed and I reached the end of the crater via a swath/trail. I wanted to search other areas of the crater. But Erik texted me that Malia found it. I was elated and ran back. 

Under a kiawe tree in a shaded area were the ferns. They were so small and it grew so wild. I bet the plant would be taken over by other weeds in the crater. 

This is slowly, about 2 years already becoming my passion. I think I'm going to research a plant and go search for it on a hike. It sets purpose, which I really need right now. The grinders aren't doing it and I really don't want to do the extreme hike right now. 

grove of 4 Leaf Clovers



'ilima

Michelle and Malia on Kokohead Ridge

Group shot in crater (Photo: David)

Group shot near Rock Bridge (Photo: David)

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