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What Is the State Tree of Hawaii?

Deanna Baranyi
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 19,761
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The state tree of Hawaii is the kukui tree. It is commonly called the candlenut tree, though some people refer to it by its species name, Aleurites moluccana. It was officially designated the state tree of Hawaii by the state legislature in 1959. Interestingly, it originated in Polynesia, making Hawaii the only state in the United States to have a non-native tree as its official state tree. It can be identified by its silvery-green leaves, small white blossoms, and golf-ball-sized nuts.

Originally, the state tree of Hawaii was the coconut palm. It was named the state tree by the governor of the then-Territory of Hawaii. In 1959, however, for reasons that are unknown, the state tree of Hawaii was changed to the kukui.

The kukui tree has many uses. The nuts may be lit on fire, for instance, similar to a candle — lending to the origination of its common name, the candlenut tree. In fact, the nuts commonly were used in torches because they would burn for several hours and emit quite a bit of light. The nuts were also used in leis. They are often polished in these famous welcoming floral necklaces, creating shiny white, black, or brown sections of the lei.

The oil from the nuts can be used as well. For example, the oil may be used in soap or varnish. It is also used as a preservative for items such as fishing nets and wood. In addition, some people use the oil as a moisturizer for their skin, and it is sometimes used as a remedy for sunburn and psoriasis.

People looking for natural alternatives to modern medicine use several parts of the state tree of Hawaii to treat a wide variety of ailments. For example, the sap from the nut and bark is thought to treat chapped lips. In addition, the nuts are believed to treat constipation if they are mashed and consumed. Additionally, the flowers are thought to treat thrush, a throat infection that affects young children. It is important to remember that the nuts are considered moderately poisonous, so only a person experienced in homeopathic remedies should use them for medicinal purposes.

The state tree of Hawaii symbolizes peace, protection, and enlightenment. These symbols are prominently displayed, as the kukui is used in the peaceful welcome leis, in protective medicine, and as a light source. Hawaiian history indicates that the tree descended from one of the Hawaiian gods, the pig god. As a result, many people believe that the leaves of the kukui tree look like a pig's nose or ears. Others think that the leaves simply resemble the common maple tree.

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Deanna Baranyi
By Deanna Baranyi
Deanna Baranyi, a freelance writer and editor with a passion for the written word, brings a diverse skill set to her work. With degrees in relevant fields and a keen ability to understand and connect with target audiences, she crafts compelling copy, articles, and content that inform and engage readers.
Discussion Comments
By Heavanet — On Oct 16, 2014
My skin is very prone to rashes, blemishes, and irritation, so I am always trying new natural products to make it feel and look better. I bought some soap made from the oils of the kukui tree, and I love it. Not only is it soothing, but it doesn't irritate my skin like other types of products do.

Though kukui tree soap can be difficult to find, it is available online and in some natural supplies stores.

By Raynbow — On Oct 15, 2014
The state of Hawaii and its people have a long Polynesian history, so I think that it is only fitting that the state tree is from Polynesia. I think that's why the Kukui tree is more fitting for the state than the coconut palm tree. The kukui tree is also a very beautiful tree, which is fitting for such a beautiful state.
Deanna Baranyi
Deanna Baranyi
Deanna Baranyi, a freelance writer and editor with a passion for the written word, brings a diverse skill set to her...
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