Niu

English Name: Coconut

Genus: Cocos nucifer

Uses:

Niu is commonly know for the fruit in the tree has many uses. The fruit was used for a drink and for food, a commonly known food is haupia. But the tree has many other uses like, house thatching, brooms, hats, baskets, cordage, clothing, charcoal, musical instruments, and providing shade.

Background Info:

History -

Niu trees can grow up to a 100 feet tall. It was also brought to Hawaiʻi by the first Polynesian settlers. Due to the Niu tree having so many uses, it is thought to be one of the most useful trees in the tropics.

Traditions -

Hawaiians would plant a niu tree when a child was born. By their seventh birthday, there would be coconuts in the tree. They would have coconuts for the next 70-100 years, lasting an entire lifetime.