Hibiscus arnothianus

Hibiscus arnottianus, commonly known as Hawaiian White Hibiscus or kokiʻo keʻokeʻo, stands out as a beautiful and fragrant native Hawaiian species. This shrub or small tree typically grows up to 15-30 feet tall and develops an open to compact habit. 

The hibiscus produces showy, pinwheel-shaped white flowers, often with a conspicuous protruding pink to red (or white, depending on subspecies) staminal column, which release a delicate fragrance, especially in the mornings. Its oval, smooth green leaves often feature distinctive red veins and stems. 

Hawaiians historically valued H. arnottianus for its ornamental beauty and also utilized its parts in traditional medicine. As an endemic species, it plays a vital role in Hawaii's native ecosystems, though invasive species and habitat degradation threaten some of its subspecies.