In the heart of Lahaina, amidst the aftermath of the devastating Maui wildfires, stands a beacon of hope and resilience: the historic Lahaina banyan tree. Despite the widespread destruction, this iconic tree, deeply rooted in Hawaii’s history, remains a testament to the enduring spirit of the island and its people.
At A Glance
A Glimpse into the Past
The Lahaina banyan tree, one of the oldest in Hawaii, was planted on April 24, 1873, by William Owen Smith, the then-sheriff of Lahaina. This planting commemorated the 50th anniversary of the first Protestant mission in the town. Initially standing at a mere 8 feet, this exotic Indian banyan quickly expanded, with its roots and trunks sprouting in all directions. Over the years, it has become an integral part of the community, offering shade and solace to both locals and visitors alike.
The Tree Today
Today, the banyan tree towers over 60 feet, boasting 46 major trunks. Its vast canopy provides a shaded refuge from the Lahaina sun. The tree’s exceptional growth, coupled with its numerous trunks and aerial roots, is believed to have played a pivotal role in its survival during the recent fires that ravaged the town.
Efforts to Preserve and Protect
The road to recovery, both for the tree and Lahaina, is undeniably long. Expert arborist Steve Nimz, after inspecting the tree, found live tissue in its cambium, the layer just below the bark. This discovery has ignited hope for the tree’s potential recovery.
To aid in its healing, a team of arborists has devised a daily watering program. Local contractor Goodfellow Bros. has stepped in, using their water trucks to ensure the tree remains sufficiently hydrated. Additionally, a protective zone, marked by signs and fencing, has been established around the tree to prevent any disturbances during this crucial period.
Furthermore, to provide the tree with essential nutrients, a 2-inch layer of compost will be spread around it. The existing soil, which fortunately remained unburned beneath the top layer, will be aerated to optimize water drainage. Over the weekend, kumu Kapono Kamaunu performed a blessing ceremony for the tree, invoking spiritual aid for its recovery.
The Banyan is a Symbol of Hope
While the Lahaina banyan tree’s full recovery remains uncertain, its mere presence amidst the destruction serves as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience. As Lahaina grapples with the aftermath of the wildfires, the banyan tree stands as a reminder of the community’s strength and the possibility of renewal.
Much like the town itself, the tree’s recovery will require time, care, and unwavering support. Yet, there remains a collective hope that someday soon, people will once again gather under the grand canopy of the Lahaina banyan tree, drawing strength and inspiration from its enduring presence.
Scott Sweeney is the creator of Virtual Hawaii 360. Scott is a professional marketer and a lifelong Hawaii enthusiast. Scott splits time between Oahu and Dayton, Ohio. In addition to his marketing endevours, he is also a published Ukulele musician.
