About
Naio Biology & Ecology
Naio in Hawaiʻi
Naio grows on all the main Hawaiian Islands
from coastal areas and lava fields to
dry, mesic, and wet forests.
Naio can be found near sea level
up to 5,000-7,000 feet.
Most common on the slopes of Maunakea,
Maunaloa, and Haleakalā.
Identifying Naio
Bark is dark gray and grooved
Leaves are alternate, narrow-oblong, pointed, variable margins and hairs
Flowers are small and white; can also be light pink or purple
Buds bloom sporadically throughout the year
Growing Naio
Naio is a medium to fast growing tree and can grow several feet a year.
Fruits should be collected when they are soft and ripe. Mature fruits can be white, tan, or purple in color.
After collecting, separate seed from fruit pulp.
Soak seeds in water to prep for sowing into germination trays. Germination timing varies with the seed preparation options.
Naio can be planted to diversify existing forests, reforest where native forests used to be, as well as planted for landscaping.
Wherever planted, it is important for naio to have ample sunlight, nutrients, and well drained soil.