The trees of Hawaii

Ted. One of Judy’s brothers is a tree farmer. Over the years, Chuck has shared a bit of his knowledge and much of his love for trees with us. Consequently, I often find myself looking up as we wander the world.

While in Honolulu, we visited the Polynesian Cultural Center where I was struck by just how important trees are to their culture(s). Most of the food, clothing and housing in this part of the world comes from trees.

While taro, a small plant, is a staple food, so is breadfruit, a tree. Other trees such as mangos, avocados, bananas and papayas provide important additions to the local diet. Coffee and macadamia plantations give a welcome boost to the modern economy. Coconut palms contribute much more than food and could arguably be considered the single most important plant in Polynesian life.

The majestic koa is used to craft sturdy outrigger canoes and prized ukeleles. Other large, shade creators include the massive banyans and monkey pod trees.

Banyan

I loved the beauty of the flowering trees that we saw in Hawaii. Admittedly, most of the trees I admired are non-native but the fact remains that trees like bougainvillea, hibiscus and golden shower grab your attention.

Golden shower tree

Hawaiians make leis from parts of many trees including the blossoms of the beautiful plumeria, the berries of the octopus tree and the nuts of the kukui. In fact, the kukui was named the state tree of Hawaii because of its many uses. For instance, the oil from the nut can be used to light a lamp. One of my favorites is the first tree to grow on a newly cooled lava field, Pele’s sacred ohi’a.

I guess I’m not the only one who has loved the trees of Hawaii. The iconic song of Hawaii, “Aloha ‘Oe” was written by Queen Lili’uokalani in 1878. The song opens with an image of beautiful ‘ahihi lehua trees. Here is a translation:

“Proudly swept the rain by the cliffs

As it glided through the trees

Still following ever the bud

The ‘ahihi lehua of the vale”

'Ahihi lehua