How to Grow Wiliwili
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Wiliwili
Erythrina sandwicensis
treeWiliwili is a native Hawaiian tree prized for its brilliant scarlet-orange flowers and lightweight, buoyant wood. It grows as a deciduous to semi-deciduous tree, typically reaching 20-40 feet tall, and holds significant cultural and ecological importance in Hawaii.
When should you plant Wiliwili in your zone?
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Example Wiliwili timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Wiliwili
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Wiliwili
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Wiliwili dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in USDA zones 10b-12, tropical and subtropical climates
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Get my Wiliwili timeline →Growth Stages
Germination & Seedling
4-8 weeksSeeds sprout within 2-4 weeks. Seedlings develop their first true leaves and establish a taproot system
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Provide bright, indirect light. Protect from strong winds
Juvenile Growth
1-2 yearsYoung tree develops a sturdy trunk and branching structure. Foliage is soft and green; no flowers yet
Stake for support if needed. Prune to encourage branching. Water regularly and fertilize monthly with balanced fertilizer
Vegetative Development
1-2 yearsTree grows rapidly with increasing trunk diameter and crown spread. Compound pinnate leaves are prominent
Continue staking support until trunk is sturdy. Thin crowded branches. Maintain consistent watering. Fertilize 2-3 times per year
Flowering
4-8 weeksTree produces clusters of brilliant scarlet-orange flowers on branch tips, typically in spring to early summer. Flowers attract native birds
Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to encourage flowering over excessive foliage. Maintain consistent moisture. Deadhead spent flowers if desired
Fruiting & Seed Production
2-3 monthsAfter flowering, elongated seed pods develop and mature, turning brown and eventually splitting to release black seeds
Allow pods to mature on tree. Collect seeds when pods dry and split. Store seeds in cool, dry conditions
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Remove and destroy affected branches; prune to improve air circulation; monitor regularly for early signs; use pyrethrin-based insecticides if severe
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Spray with neem oil or horticultural soap; introduce natural predators; remove heavily infested branches
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Prune affected areas; apply horticultural oil spray during dormancy; encourage natural predators
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Increase humidity with misting; spray with water to dislodge; use neem oil if infestation is severe
Uses
Hawaiian Cultural Symbol
CulturalWiliwili holds deep significance in Hawaiian culture as a native tree featured in traditional stories, lei making, and ecological restoration efforts. The flowers are used in ceremonial lei and represent the beauty of native Hawaiian flora. [source]
Lightweight Wood for Traditional Uses
CraftThe extremely light, buoyant wood was historically used by Native Hawaiians for outriggers on canoes, hula implements, and ceremonial items. Modern craftspeople value it for decorative woodworking. [source]
Native Pollinator & Bird Support
WildlifeThe vibrant scarlet-orange flowers attract native Hawaiian birds, particularly nectarivores, making it essential for supporting native avifauna and pollinator populations in restoration landscapes. [source]
Traditional Hawaiian Medicine
MedicinalVarious parts of wiliwili have been used in traditional Hawaiian lomilomi and plant medicine practices, though scientific research is limited on specific medicinal compounds. [source]
Native Reforestation & Habitat Restoration
EcologicalWiliwili is a key species in Hawaiian native forest restoration projects, helping to restore degraded dryland forest ecosystems and increase biodiversity in native plant communities. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Collect mature seed pods in late summer to early fall when they turn brown and begin to split naturally. Store seeds in a cool, dry location. Seeds can be scarified lightly or soaked in warm water overnight before planting to improve germination
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Wiliwili seeds are naturally buoyant due to air pockets in the seed coat, allowing them to float across ocean currents—they were likely distributed across the Pacific by ocean drift, making them one of Hawaii's naturally occurring introduced species.
- 🌱 The name 'wiliwili' is derived from Hawaiian, and the tree's scarlet-orange flowers were so prized that they were reserved for Hawaiian royalty in lei-making traditions.
- 🌱 Erythrina sandwicensis is closely related to other Erythrina species found across tropical regions worldwide, collectively known as 'coral trees' due to their brilliantly colored flowers that resemble coral.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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