What does Lehua mean?

Lehua is a flower that grows on the Big Island of Hawai'i. It grows on a tree called the 'O'hia lehua tree. 'O'hia and Lehua were lovers, but Pele (volcano goddess) was jealous and transformed 'O'hia into a tree. Lehua's ancestors, at her request, transformed her into the beautiful blossom on the tree. The legend states that if you pick the lehua flower, it will rain Lehua's tears. I love the legend but also love that the blossom looks like acupuncture needles!

The Big Island is one of my favorite islands. My family went often for vacations as we were in the military and KMC (Kilauea military camp) has inexpensive cabin rentals, right in Volcanos National Park.