Scientific name: Wilkesia gymnoxiphium

Classification: Kingdom: Plantae. Class: Dicotyledonae. Family: Asteraceae

Origin: Native

Status: Reduced populations

Distribution: Kaua`i

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This unusual plant is related to the better-known silverswords of Maui and the Big Island, but is found only on the island of Kaua‘i. It can reach heights of 15 feet or more. It occurs at elevations of 1,500 to 3,000 feet on dry ridges or open forest areas. Some can be seen near Waimea Canyon on the Iliau Loop Trail, although populations are down because of feeding by goats.