Vireya supreme at Panaewa Rainforest

For many years, three plant societies have worked hard to create beautiful tropical gardens that enhance the visitor experience at the Panaewa Rainforest Zoo. One of these groups is the American Rhododendron Society-Hawaii Chapter, known locally — and for short — as the Vireya Society.

This nonprofit society focuses on tropical rhododendrons called vireya that do well in Big Island gardens. The society maintains three garden areas at the zoo: one of them contains species only and the other two contain hybrids, some of which have been hybridized by local Big Island growers.

The species garden has just been replanted, thanks to donations from Peter Adams of White Cloud Nursery in Pahoa. White Cloud Nursery has closed, but its plants will live on where everyone can enjoy them.

The society also is responsible for a vireya bench near the beginning of the pathway, which features an orange and yellow variety called R. zoelleri. The bench was created by Charlene Lofgreen.

Volunteers to maintain the zoo gardens are always welcome, as are donations to help with upkeep.

Other projects of the group include a vireya garden in the rear courtyard of the Keaau Community Center, vireya beds at Hospice of Hilo and the recent adoption of a vireya hedge at the Puna Hongwanj in Keaau.

The chapter has participated for 15 years at the Hilo Orchid Society’s annual show with a flower display and information booth, teaching how to root cuttings (trusses) and then giving them away. Ideas for new projects are always welcome.

The Vireya Society meets monthly on the third Sunday at the Keaau Community Center and welcomes all. Potluck starts at noon followed by a meeting and program at 1 p.m.

For more information, email Sherla Bertelmann at Sbertelmann@hawaii.rr.com.