Kiawe trees (Prosopis pallida) are native to the northeastern corner of South America. They were introduced to Hawaii way back in 1828 and now are the dominant tree in coastal areas on the drier west side of this island. The downside of this is that the tree has wicked thorns that penetrate tires and footwear. My feet have been jabbed through Teva sandals and Adidas hiking shoes. The most popular footwear in Hawaii are slippahs (flip-flops or thongs), but one has to be brave and vigilant, or maybe foolish, to wear those where kiawe grow.
On the plus side, the tree’s wood is popular for firewood and barbecues. Kiawes also provide shade and have light yellow flowers which are popular with bees and butterflies such as the painted lady butterfly in this photo.
Graham's Island 
Ouch! Looks very tropical somehow
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I’d never really noticed the flowers before, but they’re really quite pretty and the butterflies love them.
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hat a beautiful photograph..
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Painted ladies are quite common here, but no less lovely for that.
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I wondered if we get these trees here in South Africa, but although they are invasive in many places, it seems they are not here in southern Africa – at least not yet.
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Let’s hope it stays that way.
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Indeed!
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Lovely photo, interesting plant, reminds me a bit of a buddleija.
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To be honest, this year is the first time I’ve really noticed the flowers. It was really all the butterfly activity that drew me to them.
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They look beautiful, Graham. Must be worth a little careful attention. 🙂 🙂
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The flowers are worth checking out and the thorns are worth watching out for rather than plucking them out of one’s foot!
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