How to Grow Wili Wili

iNaturalist

Wili Wili

Erythrina sandwicensis

tree

Wili Wili is a native Hawaiian tree known for its striking scarlet or orange-red flowers that bloom in spring. This deciduous to semi-evergreen tree is culturally significant in Hawaii and serves as an excellent ornamental and shade tree. It typically grows 20-40 feet tall and provides vibrant color to tropical and subtropical landscapes.

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Example Wili Wili timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)

Plant Wili Wili
Around Apr 17

Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
Tend & protect
Late spring–summer

Watering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
Harvest Wili Wili
Late summer into fall

Before the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)

Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Wili Wili dates for your own zip code.

Growing Conditions

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

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Water: Moderate water needs; drought-tolerant once established. Water regularly during establishment and dry seasons; reduce watering in winter dormancy

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Spacing: 240 inches

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Days to maturity: 3-5 years to first flowering

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Planting depth: Plant seeds 1 inch deep; transplants at same depth as root ball

Soil

Type: Well-draining sandy or loamy soil

pH: 6.0-7.5

Amendments:

Compost Organic matter Perlite or sand for drainage

Growing Zones

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Thrives in USDA zones 10b-11, best in warm tropical and subtropical climates

10b 11a 11b

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Growth Stages

Seedling

4-8 weeks

Young tree with small leaves emerging from germinated seed

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

Juvenile

1-2 years

Tree develops stronger stem and branching structure, growing 1-2 feet per year

Provide stake support if needed; maintain consistent watering; apply balanced fertilizer monthly during growing season

Vegetative Growth

1-3 years

Established tree with dense foliage, no flowers yet; vigorous branch development

Prune to shape desired form; reduce nitrogen-heavy fertilizer to encourage flowering; maintain regular watering

Flowering

4-6 weeks

Brilliant scarlet to orange-red flower clusters appear along branches before or as leaves emerge in spring

Reduce watering slightly; avoid heavy pruning during flowering; fertilize with phosphorus-rich formula to support blooms

Seed Development

2-3 months

After flowering, elongated seed pods develop containing hard seeds with red arils

Allow pods to mature on tree; collect when brown and dry; store seeds in cool, dry place for future propagation

Companion Planting

Plan your garden →

Plant with:

Plumeria Hibiscus Heliconia Ti plant Bird of paradise Orchids

Avoid planting near:

Aggressive vine species Dense root competitors

Common Pests

Spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil or miticide if severe; improve humidity
Remove with alcohol-soaked cotton swab; spray with insecticidal soap; apply neem oil
Prune affected branches; spray with horticultural oil; apply systemic insecticide if needed
Prune and destroy galled branches; remove fallen twigs; no chemical control highly effective; maintain tree vigor

Uses

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Hawaiian Cultural Significance

Cultural

Wili Wili holds deep cultural importance in Hawaiian traditions and was used to create lei and personal adornments. The tree is featured in Hawaiian mythology and remains a symbol of Hawaiian heritage. [source]

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Spectacular Flowering Display

Ornamental

The brilliant scarlet-red flowers make Wili Wili a prized ornamental tree for tropical gardens and landscapes. Its showy blooms provide dramatic color during spring months when few other trees flower. [source]

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Landscape Shade Tree

Shade

As a large deciduous to semi-evergreen tree reaching 20-40 feet, Wili Wili provides excellent shade for tropical properties. Its broad canopy creates cool resting areas in hot climates. [source]

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Pollinator and Bird Support

Wildlife

The abundant spring flowers attract hummingbirds, nectar-feeding birds, and native Hawaiian pollinators. The tree supports ecosystem biodiversity in native Hawaiian landscapes. [source]

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Lei and Traditional Crafts

Craft

The bright red flowers are traditionally used in Hawaiian lei-making and decorative arrangements. Seeds with their red arils have also been used in traditional Hawaiian crafts and adornments. [source]

Harvest Tips

Harvest seed pods in late summer to fall when they turn brown and begin to split. Collect seeds from mature pods and dry thoroughly before storage. Remove seeds from bright red arils. For ornamental purposes, enjoy flowers in situ during peak bloom in spring.

Fun Facts

🌱 Wili Wili is endemic to Hawaii, naturally occurring only on the Hawaiian Islands, making it a true Hawaiian treasure with no wild populations elsewhere in the world.
🌱 The name 'Wili Wili' comes from Hawaiian and refers to the tree's ability to twist and twirl, referencing its flexible wood or the way its bright flowers seem to dance in the breeze.
🌱 The tree is deciduous, meaning it drops its leaves in winter dormancy, leaving dramatic bare branches that showcase the spring flower display when new blooms emerge before the leaves return.

Gardening Terms

New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:

Full Sun Partial Shade pH

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