Orchid Garden

Close to Bromeliad Hill lies the Orchid Garden, which displays many distinct species. Fabulous flowers sporting every shade of pastel, including tiger orchids, butterfly orchids, and cattleyas, all populate this corner of the Garden. The orchids on view are only a few of the estimated 25,000 known species worldwide. In addition, more than 60,000 new varieties have been created through hybridization.

Bromeliad Hill

Farther along the Outer Lake Trail is a small hill covered with a vast variety of bromeliads. These plants are true tropicals, relatives of the pine- apple that made Hawaii famous. There are more than 400 recognized species of bromeliads in the world, most of which originated in the South American jungle. More than 80 varieties and species are represented in the Garden.

Bromeliads are epiphytes, meaning air plants, and they rely on rainwater to provide their nutrients. Pools of water collect in the crown of the plants, along with dirt and leaves which provide additional nourishment.
 
Some of the Garden's finest bromeliads are found on the roots and trunk of a giant fallen banyan tree. This former matriarch of the valley was a century old, but a storm toppled the behemoth several years ago. It is a fitting requiem that in death, this tree supports a living bromeliad collection.

Vista Points

Following the yellow arrows, visitors find many small side trails. Wi-apple Vista, Coconut Vista, and Monkeypod Vista all offer the chance to sit a spell on a shady bench contemplating Onomea Stream and the ocean waves crashing below. This is the perfect place to breathe the pure, scented air and absorb the Garden's relaxing atmosphere.

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HAWAII TROPICAL BOTANICAL GARDEN
27-717 Old Mamalahoa Highway
P.O. Box 80, Papaikou, HI 96781
Phone: 808-964-5233 FAX: 808-964-1338