Silversword

The Silversword plant is only found on the island of Maui in Haleakalā National Park at an elevation of 6,800' to 10,000' on the Haleakalā summit depression, the rim summits, and surrounding slopes of the dormant Haleakalā volcano. Silversword plants in general grow on volcanic cinder, a dry, rocky substrate that is subject to freezing temperatures and high winds. The skin and hairs are strong enough to resist the wind and freezing temperature of this altitude and protect the plant from dehydration and the sun.