Fun Facts About Five Common Trees That You May Find In Your Own Backyard Part 2!
Koa Tree
The Koa Tree truly is one of a kind. It is endemic to these islands meaning that you will not be able to find it anywhere else in the world. While the Hawaiians are known for their kindness towards all of the land and trees, the Koa trees specifically are very significant to them. There are many ancient stories involving the Koa in Hawaiian traditions and legends.
The unique wood of the Koa has a rich color giving it a beautiful look. It is often used for Hawaiian canoes, decorative items, furniture, and even your classic ukulele or other instruments. This tree plays a vital role in Hawaii's ecosystem with its ability to fix nitrogen through its roots, perform resilience in volcanic soils, and the overall biodiversity role it plays in the ecosystem. Koa Trees are incredible!
Coconut Palm
Known as the symbol of paradise, what more could you expect when you think of your classic Hawaiian palm tree? The coconut palm is popular across all tropical places including the Hawaiian islands. Its versatile use is a big part of the culture here as the natives use just about every part of the tree. The fronds are used for weaving baskets and hats, the trunk for building materials, and best of all the delicious coconut for a healthy snack or refreshing drink.
The coconut palms thrive in Hawaii's warm weather and the locals thrive off the coconuts it supplies. The coconut has many edible parts including the “flesh” or coconut “meat” that can be eaten raw if chosen. This meat is used in cooking and can be made into coconut oil which has several benefits just in itself. The coconut offers plenty to the people and can be seen as a symbol of welcome. Fresh leis are made from its fronds and are given to friends and family. The coconut palm tree has so many fun facts we may need to make a blog solely dedicated to this tree!
Monkey Pod Tree
The Monkey Pod Tree originates from South America, yet is very common here on the islands of Hawaii. Other common names are the Rain Tree or Saman depending on the region. Monkey Pod trees help stabilize soil preventing erosion and provide habitats to many forms of wildlife. Even though these trees are helpful, they have invasive potential. Their ability to grow rapidly through the spread of seeds can disrupt vegetation in specific areas.
If the trees are removed because they are invasive they will be sure not to go to waste. The wood can be used to make instruments or furniture, and the fruit pods on the tree can be used as animal feed. Different parts of the tree can even be extracted for medicinal purposes. There are a lot of pros and cons to Monkey Pod Trees here in Hawaii, but at the end of the day, they are very beautiful trees that do a lot of good for the environment.
Papaya Tree
Papaya trees are known for their unique look and vibrant colored fruit. These trees can grow up to 10 feet in one year especially when they thrive in a tropical environment. Something that makes them special is their unisexual flowers. All trees produce both male and female flowers on the same plant giving them a self-pollination advantage. The papaya fruit is vitamin C rich and contains vitamin A and E as well. One of their special nutritious features is a digestive enzyme that aids in medicinal use for digestive problems, wounds, and topical conditions.
When it comes to culinary uses, this fruit is common in smoothies, fruit salads, and some salsas or even desserts. The seeds inside of a papaya can look intimidating at first but they are actually edible. Having a peppery flavor makes them a perfect spice to cook with. If you're looking to have your own papaya plant then you're in luck. This tree is very easy to propagate and grow, giving you your own source of papayas in no time.
Plumeria Tree
The beautiful plumeria flower is a staple here in Hawaii. The flowers are commonly used in lei making and their soft aroma is perfect for different candles and perfumes. The plumerai tree blooms year-round and comes in a variety of colors. The white, pink, yellow, and even red flowers all make the perfect combination for a lei or a flower tucked behind your ear.
These flowers are a symbol of Aloha and are associated with the spirit of Aloha. Locals use leis as a symbol of welcome, love, and friendship which shines through the plumeria flowers. While these trees and their flowers are beautiful they are also helpful in medicinal ways. The bark and sap of the tree are used to treat skin problems, headaches, and more. This magnificent tree is admired for its beauty and so much more.
