Silene hawaiiensis was listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act on 04 March 1994. Threats to the plant include fire in some areas. Fire also fosters the takeover of invasive plant species such as Pennisetum setaceum (fountain grass), which displaces native plants; the flammable fountain grass then increases the likelihood of more fire. Construction and other activities at Mauna Kea and the Pohakuloa Training Area may threaten some plants. Introduced Mouflon sheep are a threat to this and other native plants. Insect damage and climate change may be threats as well.