the black lava of HI is wonderful for quick drainage used for orchids, anthirums etc. red lava that is prevelent here in CA tends to break down quickly in aquatic filters and as a planting medium for like bonsai.
the black lava is excellent for nitrification in bio filters, be sure and sift it first, the very fine particles will eat up your impellers on the pumps. i've use it successfully in wet dry aquatic filters for systems servicing several thousand gallons.
i would never recommend the red lava. just my 2cents.