Kukui is a tree with large, usually deeply lobed leaves that are a distinctive light green, such that the trees stand out seen from a distance clustered in valley bottoms. Kukui is a relatively fast-growing tree that spreads naturally at Nā Pōhaku o Hauwahine and is one of our more abundant forest trees.

The tree was utilized extensively by the early Hawaiians and was so important that it is the State Tree of Hawai‘i. The nuts, strung on a coconut leaf midrib, were used as torches, and the extracted oil likewise burned in stone vessels to provide light; thus the name candle nut applied to this tree.

The roasted nuts, mixed with salt and seaweed, are use as a condiment called ‘inamona.