Lipochaeta lobata is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae, also known by the common name shrubland nehe. It is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands, where it can be found in coastal dry shrublands and dry forests on Oahu, Maui, and Niihau.
The genus Lipochaeta comprises around 20 species, all native to Hawaii, reflecting the high level of plant diversification on the islands. There are two varieties of this Lipochaeta lobata.
The species is native to the Hawaiian Islands, where it occurs mainly on:
Typical habitats include coastal dry shrublands, dry forests, rocky slopes, and open landscapes with high sunlight. The endangered variety (var. leptophylla) occurs mainly in dry shrubland habitats elevated at around 457-610 m (1500-2000 ft).
Conservation efforts to preserve var. leptophylla include its federal listing as endangered in the United States. Threats to its safety include:
Plants of the genus Lipochaeta have historical significance in Hawaii. Yellow or brightly colored flowers, such as the ones on nehe, were used historically in lei making, a traditional Hawaiian floral craft.