Hawaii, an archipelago celebrated for its distinct natural splendor and diverse ecosystems, is home to a rich array of flora and fauna. States often designate trees as official symbols to represent their natural heritage and cultural identity.
Discovering Hawaii’s State Tree
The official state tree of Hawaii is the Kukui tree, widely recognized as the Candlenut tree (Aleurites moluccanus). It was officially designated on May 1, 1959, by the 30th Territorial Legislature. Prior to this, the coconut palm, or niu, served as the official tree of the Territory of Hawaii since 1930. The Kukui tree was chosen for its extensive utility to ancient Hawaiians and its distinctive light-green foliage.
Unique Characteristics and Cultural Importance
The Kukui tree is easily identified by its silvery-green or grayish foliage, visible from a distance. This large evergreen typically grows 65 to 90 feet tall with a broad, spreading crown. Its large leaves often feature three to five lobes, and young leaves are covered with tiny, star-shaped hairs, giving them a pale color. The tree produces large, oily, nut-like seeds encased in a hard shell, which are its most distinctive feature.
The Kukui tree held extensive historical and cultural significance for native Hawaiians. Its nuts were primarily used as a source of light, earning the tree its common name, “candlenut”. Hawaiians strung roasted nuts on a coconut leaf midrib to create torches, each burning for approximately 15 minutes and also used for timekeeping. Beyond illumination, the nuts were processed into ʻinamona, a relish made from crushed kernels mixed with salt, often served with raw fish.
Various parts of the Kukui tree served diverse practical purposes. Oil from the nuts waterproofed canoes and fishing nets, and was used for medicinal applications. Dyes were obtained from different parts: the outer nut shell yielded black dye, while the inner bark provided a reddish-brown dye. The soft, light-colored wood was used for canoe building and other temporary items.
Symbolically, the Kukui tree represents enlightenment, protection, and peace in Hawaiian culture. The word “kukui” relates to “lamp,” “light,” or “torch” in Hawaiian, reinforcing its connection to knowledge and guidance. It is also considered the kinolau, or bodily form, of Kamapuaʻa, the Hawaiian pig god. Kukui nut leis are worn as adornments in ceremonies and by royalty, signifying status and respect.
Natural Habitat and Distribution
The Kukui tree thrives across the Hawaiian Islands, commonly found in moist lowland mountain forests, valleys, and along stream beds. It prefers well-draining, moist, and fertile soils, though it can grow in a variety of soil types. While it can tolerate some shade, it flourishes best in full sunlight. The tree is typically found at elevations ranging from sea level up to about 2,300 feet.
The Kukui is considered a Polynesian introduction, brought to the Hawaiian Islands by early Polynesian voyagers as a “canoe plant.” These plants were essential for survival, providing food, medicine, and materials during their migrations. Today, the Kukui tree has naturalized and become widespread across all the main islands. Its adaptability allows it to grow well even in relatively poor sites, provided there is ample soil moisture.