Harold H. Lyon Arboretum in Hawaii

Harold H. Lyon Arboretum
Maintained by the prestigious University of Hawaii at Manoa, The Lyon Arboretum and botanical gardens occupy some 200 acres in the Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve. Originally established by the Hawaiian Sugar Planters’ Association in 1918, the Manoa Arboretum was renamed for Harold H. Lyon, a botanist from Minnesota who worked for the Association and planted over 2,000 trees as part of research in the efforts of reforestation. As an active part of the University of Hawaii, the Arboretum is involved in botanical and ethnobotanical research.

Ideal for small groups of dedicated hikers, the many of the main hiking paths are unmarked, and offer a feeling of complete immersion in a tropical rainforest. The Arboretum also features several beautiful gardens tended by volunteers and university students. The Betty Ho Memorial Garden is filled with beautiful antique Chinese pots, and lined with her favorite bromeliads. Best viewed from the lanai of the main building, the Mapes Garden is inspired by a Japanese-styled garden, the and mixes temperate plants including delicate camellias and mondo grass alongside ornamental tropical plants.

Visitors often enjoy wandering the Herb and Spice Garden, a collection of edible plants from around the world, separated by region. Sections include a European, African and Mediterranean island of plants, Asian, New World, a path dedicated entirely to ginger, and a group featuring edible flowers. A separate garden dedicated for children is under construction.

Self-guided tours are available Monday through Friday from 9am-4pm, and Saturday from 9am-3pm. The Arboretum gate locks at 4pm, so be sure to finish any hikes well before that time. The Arboretum is closed on Sundays. Guided tours are available at 10am for $5. Reservations can be made for the guided tours in advance by calling 808.988.0461.

Great information about dragon's teeth lava. I like this information and i enjoy reading this.