Fossil remains reveal that it (and at least one closely related species, Ciridops tenax) also existed at one time on other Hawaiian islands.

With respect to coloring, the adult was patterned red overall, while the head, throat, and upper back were silvery gray.

Immature birds were brownish overall with a bluish-gray breast, black wings and tail, and a greenish-brown back.

ʻUla-ʻai-hāwane are thought to have fed on the seeds and flowers of the loulu palms Pritchardia affinis, P. beccariana, P. lanigera and P. schattaueri.

[citation needed] The bird's name suggests it fed on the unripe fruits (hāwane) frequently.