Both cyanea pilosa and cyanea floribunda are common in Pu'u Maka'ala NAR, and overall they look quite similar. In this photo the fuzzy leaves (appearing light green) of cyanea pilosa (foreground) contrast with the smooth (appearing darker) leaves of cyanea floribunda (upper left). The two are also distinguished by their flowers. Cyanea pilosa has streams of flowers and fruit on little shoots that grow out of the main stalk, just below the leaves. The flowers and fruit of cyanea floribunda grow in tight clusters, closer to its main stalk.

This was one of the most impressive cyanea pilosa in Pu'u Maka'ala NAR, but sadly it was destroyed the last time I checked it in mid-October. :( The cyanea floribunda in the background was also missing by December. :( :(