Go Native: The Hawaiian Christmas Tree
Mele Kalikimaka, and Happy Holidays! The winter season can be magical when we embrace our tropical climate and approach decorating for the holidays with a fresh perspective. Opting for potted plants as an alternative to a cut tree (or a fake one, for that matter), is not only better for the environment, but can last long after the holidays have passed. The gift that keeps on giving! Once the holidays are over, potted Christmas trees can be planted out in your landscape and add to your growing garden! The Norfolk Pine is a great option if you’re looking for a true Christmas Tree look, but if you’re looking to branch out and search for a tree native to the islands, Alahe’e is the perfect fit! So lets get into why this tree is nicknamed “The Hawaiian Christmas Tree.”
A Hawaiian History
Alaheʻe is indigenous to the Hawaiian Islands and found from wet forests to dry shrublands. This indigenous tree grows on all the main islands except Ni’ihau and Kaho’olawe. In certain areas you can still find this plant growing along the coast. Psydrax odorata is its scientific name. It is a Rubiaceae, in the Coffee family. The Hawaiian name “He’e” means octopus, so the name Alahe’e translates to "slippery like the squid." Traditionally, the wood was used to make fishing spears to hunt octopus, as well as digging tools and Adze handles. The leaves were used to make a black dye, and the fruit and flowers are used in lei making. The tree produces clusters of white, fragrant flowers, making it very desirable for leis. The fragrant flower makes it desirable as an ornamental plant as well, and the clusters stand out in the landscape. It is also believed that the leaves and stem had medicinal uses. When cooked, it is said the substance can be made into a blood cleansing drink. Alahe’e are slow growers but once mature, can reach over 30 feet if left unpruned. Regular maintenance and pruning make the Alahe’e perfect to use as a hedge or manicured shrub! It is often recommended as a native alternative to mock orange (Fun fact: the Hawaiian name for Mock Orange is alaheʻe haole), due to its similar floral scent and versatility as a hedge shrub.
A Hawaiian Christmas
Alahe’e’s shape and branch structure resembles that of typical Christmas trees, with its symmetrical branching and triangle shape. The branches are relatively sturdy, making it ideal for decorating with all of your favorite ornaments and garlands! The leaves are small but fill out the branches nicely. When in bloom, the flower clusters add another touch of natural decoration. After the flowering period, small green or purple berries fruit in clusters, making the branches fuller and adding more festivity! Alahe’e don’t require much watering, and can be placed in a pot indoors for the holiday season. Pick out a festive pot as the base and decorate like you would a Christmas tree, with ornaments, tinsel, and bows. We have them available in 1 gallon, 3 gallon, and 7 gallon sizes.
The holiday season is a time of tradition, and living in such a unique place, we are able to combine holiday traditions with local traditions. Pursuing a native Christmas tree is a simple way to honor the land and do your part to buy local, grow local, and spread aloha this holiday season.
However you’re spending the season,
Mele Kalikimaka & Happy Holidays from all of us at Seascapes!
