HI HB2202

Designates ōhi'a lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha) as the official state endemic tree of Hawaii, joining the kukui tree designated in 1960 as a state symbol.

Recognizes ōhi'a lehua as a keystone species endemic to Hawaii's six largest islands, occurring from sea level to over 8,000 feet elevation and providing habitat for at least 22 native forest bird species, the Hawaiian hoary bat, and numerous native plants and invertebrates.

Acknowledges ōhi'a lehua's cultural significance in Hawaiian oli (chants), mele (songs), hula (dances), and proverbs, with its blossoms symbolizing Pele's fire, warfare, and chiefly generosity and being used historically for poi boards, tools, weapons, and lei.

Addresses threats to ōhi'a including rapid ōhi'a death (a fungal pathogen that has killed over one million trees on the island of Hawaii), invasive species, climate change, and environmental pressures, noting that new state and federal regulations restrict importation of myrtle family plants to prevent new disease strains.

Takes effect on July 1, 2044.