Hawaii & the tropics do, in fact, experience seasons. Unlike areas in more temperate climate zones which experience four distinct seasons, here in the tropics it's more like two seasons... wet & dry (or dry & drier as has been the case on this island for the past several years). Still, the arrival of spring to the islands is a momentous occasion, especially in the upcountry region of Maui on the slopes of Haleakala, the world's largest volcano. High above the beach & jungle areas found at sea level, Upcountry experiences cooler temperatures & crisp air, rolling pastures and hills and incredible island wide views that unfold below. Spring in this part of Maui is heralded not only by longer days & lingering sunlight, but also by to annual blooming of the jacaranda trees and agapanthus flowers (commonly known as blue bells or blue lilies). The grasslands and meadows are green again after the renewing winter rains and all manner of flora & fauna grow with abandon before the summer dry period sets in.
From Pukalani & Makawao, both situated at approximately 1200 ft. above sea level, to Kula and Ulupalakua, the rural roadsides are lined with jacaranda trees filled with bright magenta blossoms. This is my favorite time of year to drive around this area of the island and it would be difficult to find anywhere in the world that is more beautiful in springtime.
I have posted an image I made a couple of years ago that remains a favorite. It was taken in Kula about this time of the year and shows a jacaranda tree in full bloom. While I confess to a small amount of photoshopping of the colors, I assure you that it was minimal and this is a fairly accurate depiction of that scene. This photograph reminds me of the paintings of friend and Maui artist Curtis Wilson Cost:
http://costgallery.com
Curtis is know for painting upcountry scenes and I suppose that it would be difficult to photograph anything in that area of the island that wasn't reminiscent of his work.
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