Horticultural Notes

15 – 20′ x 20 – 30′          Milo is a really important native tree.  It grows right along the coast with waves splashing at its feet.  The bright yellow flowers have darker maroon centers and are followed by green and then dark brown fruits.  Milo’s has many uses.  The bark produced cordage, the fruits a yellow dye, the wood was prized for bowls and plates and the leaves and flower buds were eaten.  Milo was also sacred to the Hawaiians and was often reserved for royalty. [1]

The tree can be a little messy but unsurpassed for coastal gardens.  It does not prune well so do so cautiously.

[1]http://nativeplants.hawaii.edu/plant/view/Thespesia_populnea