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15#Evolution had given this plant a lot of patience.
The Haleakalā silversword (Argyroxiphium sandwicense subsp. macrocephalum), found only on the high slopes of Maui’s Haleakalā volcano is a rare alpine plant that blooms just once in its lifetime. For decades, it waits in silence, its shimmering silver leaves gathering sunlight in the thin mountain air. Then, without warning and only once in its life, it blooms.
According to National Park Service, this event typically occurs after 20 to 50 years though some may flower as early as 7 years depending on environmental conditions. This final act of beauty lasts only about seven days. And then, having poured every ounce of stored energy into reproduction, the plant dies. It’s a symbol of endurance, timing, and the profound rewards of waiting. In a world driven by urgency, it stands as a quiet reminder: some of nature’s most magnificent displays require a lifetime to unfold.
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19 comments:
#15 is worth the once-in-the-lifetime wait, I'll say that.
Great collection! Am I the only one who sees a crouching gorilla in #2?
Hello Mike,
As a self-declared tree-hugger 🌳, I came straight to your blog from Debra (She Who Seeks) – because this is truly a subject close to my heart. The same goes for your amazing collection of breathtaking trees. Aren’t these beings simply wonderful – and sadly so often underestimated? (You can also meet a few trees and gentle giants in my current blog post, if you’d like.)
All the best from Austria,
Traude
🌿 https://rostrose.blogspot.com/2025/06/juni-highlights-naturpark-sparbach.html
Thank you.
Oh, #15! I have been up to the summit of Maui's extinct volcano Haleakala several times and have seen many silverswords, but didn't know about their beautiful flowering process! So spectacular! And P.S., I have a tree for you over on my blog today!
You would have to go there once a week for your whole life and could still miss it.
I see it!
😊
Tree acquired.
I've acquired several trees from your blog. Thanks. I see you've been blogging for a while.
Some impressive trees there. How long does the silversword stay in bloom?
I went back and looked for the gorilla. I think he's a bit more baboon or maybe orangutan like
The Golden Trumpet Tree seems like a good spot this week. Thanks, Mike.
One week, once in their lifetime, and then they die.
I think you'll be in Hawaii.
Magnificent! You pick them well. #15 is amazing as well as fascinating. Love #20 for the way the branches all reach for the sky. There's definitely some kind of creature in #2.
#15 is pretty and #2 looks partially melted.
#20 looks like a good climbing tree... for kids.
Did you read the paragraph about 15?
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