What is Orchidland like?
Orchidland is a rural community. There are tall telephone pole like Ohia trees sticking up above dense, nearly impenetrable bush. Ohia lehua is typically a large, slow-growing, evergreen shrub or tree 30-80 ft high. Its forms are extremely variable, ranging from creeping or erect shrubs to spreading or tall trees. Ohia is one of the first plants to colonize new lava. Ohia lehua is the official flower of the island of Hawaii. About a quarter of the lots have houses. The rest are empty and still jungle. The houses range from just shacks to near-mansions. There are several nurseries, small agricultural endeavors, retreats, vacation rentals and B&Bs. Many of the properties have Ohana dwellings, legal and otherwise. Slowly but surely the quality of the roads is improving with better maintenance and some paving being done each year. Heavy rains (and we do get rain!) will damage the roads and it takes time for all 40 miles of roadway to be regraded. The present Orchidland Community Associatio
