Monday, August 17, 2015 | Christina Hartman of Wildheart Floral & Event Styling launched her business with the intention of showcasing the unique flowers grown on the Hawaiian Islands. “It is my hope that we can bring some light to using tropicals and other locally growing plants in new and unexpected ways, especially in our islands thriving wedding industry. The remoteness of our islands adds another layer of carbon footprint when considering the chain of custody that comes with sourcing flowers from around the world. Because of our climate, we have the good fortune of a year round abundance of materials to work with and yet so much of what our brides request is imported. It is a fine balance to honor the vision a bride wants for her wedding decor and also expose her to some of the unique flora we are so lucky to have growing in our backyards.” Be sure you check out her previous post on the Field to Vase blog: Maui Tropicals and Foliage (August 2014).
Sanralum haleakalae (Iliahahi, Haleakala Sandalwood. Photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr. 
Rauvolfia sandwicensis (Hao). Photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr.
Maui Native Nursery
by Wildheart Floral & Event Styling
Two Maui farmers and horticulturists, Jonathon Keyser and Ethan Romanchak, wished to return native Hawaiian plants to its preeminent position ecologically and bring awareness to the importance of native plants. Eleven years ago they began what is a thriving business, Maui Native Nursery with specialized Hawaiian native plants and trees. Beginning with seeds and cuttings collected with permission in protected and remote wilderness areas, they cultivated a four-acre farm of mixed native vegetation. Currently they provide about a third of their products to local landscapers. However, their largest market is for reforestation efforts.
Haku Lei with native Hawaiian plants. Photo credit:Wildheart Floral & Event Styling 
Dodonaea viscose (Aalii). Photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr.
Maui Native Nursery. Photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr.
As public awareness of conservation of native Hawaiian species increased and lands were reserved to protect indigenous species both state agencies and conservation groups, their efforts filled a vital niche in Hawaii by providing locally grown plants from wild genetic material.
Colocasia esculenta (Taro, Kalo). Photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr. 
Artemisia mauiensis (Ahinahina). Photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr.
Maintaining their stock by both trial and error, they have created a business with significant long-term benefits to the environment, preserving many fragile species. In return, these two Maui natives are helping preserve and perpetuate Hawaii’s rich natural history and culture. By offering native Hawaiian plants, supporting restoration services, and educating others about the importance of our irreplaceable island home.
Acacia koa (Koa). Photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr.
Metrosideros polymorpha (Ohia Lehua). Photo credit: Forest and Kim Starr.
CHRISTINA HARTMAN
Owner/Lead Designer at Wildheart Floral & Event Styling
Maui, HI
i: @wildheart__
f: Wildheart Flowers
wildheartflowers.com
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