How to Grow Wiliwili

Wiliwili

Erythrina sandwicensis

tree

Wiliwili is a native Hawaiian tree known for its striking scarlet-orange flowers and light, buoyant wood. This deciduous to semi-deciduous tree grows 20-40 feet tall and produces distinctive coral-red flowers in spring before new leaves emerge. The tree is culturally significant in Hawaii and serves as an important nectar source for native birds.

Growing Conditions

☀️

Sun: Full sun, 6-8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade

💧

Water: Moderate watering during growing season; drought-tolerant once established; reduce water in winter dormancy

📏

Spacing: 240 inches

📅

Days to maturity: 1200-1800 (3-5 years to significant flowering)

🌱

Planting depth: 1 inch for seeds; transplants at same depth as container

Soil

Type: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil

pH: 6.0-7.5

Amendments:

Compost aged manure perlite for drainage

Growing Zones

Find your zone →

Thrives in zones 10-11, requiring tropical to subtropical climates

10a 10b 11a 11b

Growth Stages

Seedling

4-8 weeks

Small sprouts with cotyledons emerging from soil; developing first true leaves

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bright indirect light; protect from strong wind

Juvenile Growth

1-2 years

Young tree establishing root system and main stem; compound pinnate leaves developing

Water regularly during dry periods; stake if needed in windy locations; light pruning to encourage branching

Establishment

1-2 years

Tree developing full canopy structure and stronger branching; occasional flowering possible

Reduce watering frequency as roots deepen; prune to shape form; watch for pests; mulch around base

Flowering

2-4 months (spring)

Tree produces abundant coral-red to scarlet flowers in terminal clusters; flowers appear before new spring foliage

Withhold excess water during dormant period to encourage flowering; avoid heavy pruning during flowering; deadhead spent flowers if desired

Fruiting & Maturity

Ongoing seasonal cycle

Pod-like legume fruits develop from flowers; seeds mature inside pods; tree reaches full ornamental form

Collect seeds from mature pods for propagation; minimal intervention needed; established trees are drought-tolerant

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Plumeria Ixora Hibiscus Monkeypod tree Native Hawaiian understory plants

Avoid planting near:

Sensitive ornamentals that require frequent watering in arid zones Plants competing for shallow water reserves in drought conditions

Common Pests

Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; increase humidity; prune affected foliage
Manual removal with soft brush; horticultural oil spray during dormant season
Yellow sticky traps; neem oil or insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators
Hand-pick if infestation is light; neem oil spray; encourage native predatory insects

Uses

🍳

Traditional Hawaiian food use

Culinary

Historically, native Hawaiians used various parts of the wiliwili plant, though it is not commonly consumed today. The plant has ethnobotanical significance in Hawaiian culture and traditional practices. [source]

🎨

Lei and floral arrangements

Craft

The striking scarlet-orange flowers are highly prized for making traditional Hawaiian leis and contemporary floral designs. The long-lasting blooms add vibrant color to ornamental arrangements. [source]

🏠

Lightweight wood products

Household

Wiliwili wood is exceptionally light and buoyant, historically used by Hawaiians for surfboards, fishing floats, and outrigger canoes. The wood is still valued for fine woodworking and decorative objects. [source]

🦋

Native bird nectar source

Wildlife

The abundant flower production makes wiliwili an important nectar source for Hawaiian native birds, including the apapane and iiwi. Planting wiliwili supports conservation of Hawaii's endemic avifauna. [source]

🌿

Landscape specimen tree

Ornamental

With its dramatic spring flower display and drought tolerance, wiliwili serves as a striking focal point in tropical and subtropical landscapes. It's an excellent choice for native plant gardens and water-wise landscaping. [source]

Harvest Tips

Harvest mature seed pods in late summer to fall when they dry and begin to split naturally. Open pods carefully and extract seeds. Seeds can be used for propagation; scarify seed coat or soak in warm water for 24 hours before planting to improve germination. Collect flowers for leis or ornamental arrangements when fully open.

Fun Facts

🌱 Wiliwili wood is so light and buoyant that it floats in water, making it ideal for traditional Hawaiian surfboards (olo) and fishing nets.
🌱 The tree's name 'wiliwili' comes from the Hawaiian language and refers to the tree's characteristic thin, light wood.
🌱 Erythrina sandwicensis is endemic to Hawaii and is found naturally only on the Hawaiian Islands, making it a culturally and ecologically significant native species.

Want personalized planting timelines?

Get started free