Lipochaeta
DC.
nehe
Species Guides
2Lipochaeta is a of flowering plants in the Asteraceae, to the Hawaiian Islands. The genus comprises approximately 20 accepted , commonly known as nehe. Several species are extinct or possibly extinct, including L. bryanii, L. degeneri, L. perdita, and L. populifolia. Taxonomic relationships within the genus remain uncertain and require further phylogenetic study.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Lipochaeta: //ˌlaɪ.poʊˈkiː.tə//
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Identification
Distinguished from other Hawaiian Asteraceae by its restriction to the archipelago. Specific identification to level requires examination of leaf , particularly heterophylly in some species, and floral characteristics. The shows considerable morphological variation across islands.
Habitat
Found across multiple Hawaiian islands in diverse including shrublands, lava flows, coastal areas, and valleys. Specific habitat associations vary by : L. heterophylla occurs on lava flows; L. lobata in shrublands; L. succulenta in seaside environments.
Distribution
Strictly to the Hawaiian Islands. Documented from Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, Hawaii (Big Island), Niihau, and formerly Kahoolawe. Individual show varying island distributions, with some restricted to single islands.
Human Relevance
Several are known by Hawaiian and have cultural recognition. Some extinct species were last recorded in the early to mid-20th century (1928–1949), highlighting conservation concerns. No documented economic uses.
Similar Taxa
- WedeliaFormerly confused taxonomically; L. texana was reclassified as Wedelia acapulcensis var. hispida, indicating historical placement errors between these .