Hawaii’s Big Island is the state’s largest island, as the name implies. It is not only still growing because of its active volcanoes; the Hawaii Protea Farms and Protea varieties are also expanding. An “Aloha” welcome to our latest Big Island farmers JP and Kira Kaloi.
JP & Kira Kaloi
Hawaii flower farmers JP and Kira Kaloi started as protea enthusiasts. They planted their first protea plants seven years ago at their home in Wahiawa, on O’ahu Island where they flourished. In 2023, they decided to turn their passion for protea into a farm business, and Pua Mae’ole Farms was established. The Kalois purchased acreage in Ocean View in Ka’u, where they have been working to clear and prep the raw lava fields for planting. At 3,000 feet elevation, the property is well suited for protea. They also began importing a variety of protea cuttings and seeds, internationally, from South Africa and Australia.
With a background in commercial agriculture for the past 15+ years and a family background in farming, JP is thrilled to be starting his farm enterprise with his wife and three children. He has experience importing and exporting agricultural products, and Pua Mae’ole Farms’ business model centered around plant variety imports/exports to international markets.
Youth Start Program
We are excited to announce that local senior Protea farmers are engaged in the “youth start” program for young, new Protea farmers. The Hawaiian Kupuna (elders) are aware of passing down knowledge, ideas, skills, or physical objects from one generation to the next. Past IPA Delegates Tony and Sam joined hands with JP and Patio. The leadership team is excited to support these youth by offering mentoring, propagation training, free unreleased Hawaiian hybrid cuttings, and direct access to supply opportunities for imports of new plant varieties this fall.
Looking forward to IPA 2025
Hawaii is excited to participate in the International Protea Research Symposium, which will be held from March 30 to April 4, 2025, with free, unreleased Hawaiian hybrids from the Youth Start Program.
Additional information can be found here on the IPA website as well as in the December 2023 issue of the Hawaii Protea Growers Newsletter, courtesy of Ken Leonhardt.
Patio Nelson
Hawaii Delegate
Protea MyLife LLC