he Naupaka Kahakai

Native Species Project
Written By Kamāwaelualani Corp.

By Bree Blake

The Naupaka flower, according to one mo‘olelo, tells of the the lovers Naupaka and Kaui. Naupaka is the sister of akua Pele, who became jealous of the relationship between Naupaka and Kaui. Pele attempted to kill Naupaka and Kaui, but Naupaka fled to the sea while Kaui fled to the mountains. When they died, flowers bloomed near the shorelines and in the mountains. The Naupaka Kahakai, found near the ocean, is said to be Naupaka and the Naupaka Kuahiwi , found in the mountains, is said to be Kaui. They grow in what looks like half flowers. When joined together it is said that the lovers’ hearts are made whole again.

Artist: Bree Blake

Projects this Mo’olelo is featured in

Featured
Native Species Project
Rice Street
Native Species Project
Rice Street

The endemic species project is dedicated to raising public awareness of Kaua‘i’s endemic and endangered species. Endemic means that these species are found nowhere else in the world. For more info on how to kōkua with protecting our native species please visit the Kaua‘i Invasive Species Committee.

Rice Street
Kamāwaelualani Corp.

Kamāwaelualani Corp. is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to empower Kaua‘i and her people through cultural and environmental sustainability and education.

https://kamawaelualani.org
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