Climbing Alsinidendron: Hawaii’s Critically Endangered Hidden Gem
If you’re passionate about Hawaiian native plants, you may have come across the climbing alsinidendron (Alsinidendron viscosum) in your research. But before you start planning where to plant this unique species, there’s something crucial you need to know about this remarkable but extremely rare Hawaiian endemic.
What is Climbing Alsinidendron?
The climbing alsinidendron is a perennial shrub that’s completely native to Hawaii. As a multi-stemmed woody plant, it typically grows less than 13-16 feet in height, though like many shrubs, it can vary depending on environmental conditions. This species belongs to a group of plants that have adapted specifically to Hawaii’s unique island ecosystems over thousands of years.
You might also see this plant referred to by its scientific synonyms Schiedea viscosa or Schiedea viscosa var. laevis in older botanical literature, but Alsinidendron viscosum is the currently accepted name.
Where Does It Grow?
This Hawaiian endemic is found only in the Hawaiian Islands, making it one of the state’s unique botanical treasures. As a facultative wetland species, climbing alsinidendron usually grows in wetland environments, though it can occasionally be found in non-wetland areas.
The Critical Reality: Why You Shouldn’t Plant This Species
Here’s the important part: Climbing alsinidendron has a Global Conservation Status of S1, meaning it’s critically imperiled. With typically five or fewer occurrences and very few remaining individuals (fewer than 1,000), this species is listed as Endangered. This isn’t just a rare plant – it’s a species fighting for survival.
Because of its critically endangered status, climbing alsinidendron should not be cultivated in home gardens or landscapes. Even if you could source this plant (which is highly unlikely and potentially harmful to wild populations), growing it would not contribute to conservation efforts and could potentially divert resources from professional conservation programs.
What Can You Do Instead?
If you’re interested in supporting Hawaiian native plants, consider these alternatives:
- Choose other native Hawaiian plants that are more stable and available through responsible nurseries
- Support conservation organizations working to protect endangered Hawaiian species
- Visit botanical gardens or nature preserves where you might glimpse rare species like climbing alsinidendron in their natural habitat
- Participate in native plant restoration projects that focus on more common species
Conservation Matters
The story of climbing alsinidendron reminds us why native plant conservation is so important. Hawaii’s unique island ecosystems have given rise to incredible plant diversity, but many species like this one are now hanging by a thread. By choosing to garden responsibly with stable native species and supporting conservation efforts, we can help ensure that future generations will still have the chance to marvel at Hawaii’s botanical treasures.
Sometimes the most loving thing we can do for a plant is to admire it from afar and let the experts handle its care. In the case of climbing alsinidendron, that’s exactly what this critically endangered species needs.
